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should not be combined with respect of persons. If the object of our lives is to be like Jesus
Himself (Ephesians 5:1), we cannot be partial toward each other with the gift with which
God has blessed us. This does not mean we cannot give respect to those to whom it is due
(1 Peter 2:17). God Himself gives respect to those believers who have accomplished great
things with their faith (Hebrews 11) because they become examples and an encouragement
for others to also achieve great things for God.

Jas 2:2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel,
and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

For if there come unto your assembly (sunagoge: synagogue) a man with a gold ring
(chrusodaktulios: gold fingered) in goodly (lampra: splendid, Luke 23:11) apparel and there
come also a poor man in vile (rupara: dirty and shabby) raiment;
The synagogue was the place where the church of Jerusalem met. It would be as much of
a “church” as those meeting in homes in Ephesus, Rome, or Corinth. During the service, a
man would walk in with splendid clothing and “gold fingered.” This refers to more than
just a gold ring; it represents many gold rings on the man’s hand. There is no indication
that the man is a believer and it is likely that he was not. Churches were always open for
unbelievers to attend (1 Corinthians 14:23‐25).

Later, during the same service another man (probably an unbeliever) walks into the service
wearing dirty and shabby clothing. These two men represented both economic and social
differences. It is probable that the rich man was influential in the city in business and
politics. The poor man would not have access to those in high places of influence. If the rich
man were born again, he would probably give large sums of money in tithes to the church
and influence other wealthy people to attend the church. As a result the church would not
only have money, they would also be known by those in the community.

Jas 2:3 And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit
thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my
footstool:

This verse is representing the reaction of the congregation, through the usher, for the two
different men coming into the church. Apparently the room was crowded and seating was
at a premium. When the rich man entered, a place was found for him regardless of the
number of people who had to move for him to have a seat. Those near the front of the
church were apparently moved to give the rich man a place where he could see and hear
well.

When the poor man entered, no attempt was made to find him a seat. First, he is told that
he can stand. He is told that if he wants to sit, he can sit on the floor. He was still able to
see the platform, but it would be at the level of everyone’s footstools.

This verse does not negate honoring those to whom honor is due. When a notable minister
or public official visits the congregation, it is not wrong to place them in a seat of honor.
But to sit someone in a place of honor simply because of riches, power, or fame is wrong.
The motive for honoring must be examined. It should not be done because it will somehow