WEEK THREE STUDY & APPLICATION Q’S

James 2:1-7

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Read the following verses –

• Deuteronomy 10:17

• Matthew 22:16

• Deuteronomy 1:17

How do these verses echo James 2:1 in regards to God’s attitude towards partiality?

2. Read Matthew 7:1, 2. In your own words, describe what Jesus means in His statement about judgement.

3. James says that to show favoritism is to become “judges with evil thoughts” 2:4 (NKJV). Read Proverbs 24:23 & John 7:24. These verses suggest that there are times to judge. What kind of judgement do you think is meant in these verses?

4. James talks about judging a person’s appearance. List at least 3 assumptions that we make about wealthy people. List at least 3 assumptions that we make about poor people. Now list 5 reasons why those assumptions could be faulty, harmful, or selfish.

5. Why does our treatment of one another matter so much to God?

6. In your own words, describe the difference between righteous and unrighteous judgement.

7. Why is it wrong to think that wealth is a sign of God’s approval and poverty a sign of His displeasure?

8. Read Luke 10:25-37. In light of what James says about showing favoritism, what is significant about the priest’s and Levite’s treatment of the man who was beaten verses the Samaritan’s

treatment of him?

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. Have you ever disregarded someone based solely on things like looks, race, abilities, economic status or education?

2. Have you ever been disregarded for any of these reasons? How did that make you feel?

3. List 3 ways that you have shown partiality. Be honest.

4. Do you see favoritism in your local church? If so, what are some ways that you can help change the culture of your congregation?

5. Make a list of 10 practical ways you can love your neighbor.

James 2:8-13

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Read the “royal law” as written in Leviticus 19:18. Read it repeated by Jesus in Matthew 5:43, 44. According to these two scriptures, what two groups of people are we to love equally?

2. If we deliberately break a commandment, what does that say about our attitude towards God’s law?

3. Read 1 Samuel 15:1-31. How serious is God when He gives a command?

4. In your own words, write what Samuel says about obedience and rebellion in 1 Samuel 15:22, 23.

5. Read Romans 13:8-10. What is the relationship between love and the law.

6. What does James 2:12 say about our lifestyle and behavior as Christians?

APPLICATION

1. In what ways have you tried to justify your sin as not that bad?

2. When we do break the law, what should our attitude be before God?

3. In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more mercy and compassion?