The world impartiality is the act of being fair and just to people and not to discriminate to the unjust and unfair to people in the society. It also means to deny people their rights and priviledges as a result of certain reasons which may be economical, social or political. Partiality is a sin against humanity and should not be tolerated within christiandom.
St James admonished not to show partiality because they hold the faith of Jesus Christ who is the lord of glory, he warned christians not to show patiality because they hold the face of Jesus Christ who is the lord of glory, he warned christians not to allow class distintion in their midst. They should not neglect the poor and exalt the rich anytime they are invited to and occasion.
He said many churches honour and regard the rich people and look down on the poor people in their midst. They use physical appearance like dressing to assess people at occasion and recognise them accordingly. They accorded the rich people better seats while the poor are not cartered for.
This made them to become partial judges. James said that those who are poor in the world are chosen by God and where made rich in faith to be rightful heir of the kingdom of God promised to those who obey him. james accused them of dishonouring the poor among them and honouring the rich who oppresses the poor and drag them to court where they would not obtain justice. The rich also blaspheme against the name of the lord.
He adviced christians to love their neighbours as themselves. If they show partiality, they have committed a sin and are convicted by law as transgressors. Anyone who keeps the whole law and fail in one is guilty of breaking the law. Whoever fails to show mercy will be judged without mercy.
In the society today there is social injustice, favouritism, public service, appointment and promotion are based on social and political factors like tribes, sex, religion, membership of political group etc. and not based on merit. Even in sporting activities and national awards, there is discrimination in selecting candidates. The poor hardly obtain justice in the judiciary. The rich often violate the laws of the land yet they go unpunished. All these social injustice should be eradicated.
partiality exist in the church today as in the public sector. in most cases appointment into the offices are not based on merit. Exalted seat are reserved for the rich while the contribution of the poor are not recognised. The post in the church are often head by the rich e.g committees, mens fellowship etc. While menial jobs are often done by the poor people. these social injustices should not be tolerated in the church.
The church should practise justice and impartiality. Partiality brings disunity among various groups, and promotes distrust and unhealthy rivalry. It does not foster sense of belonging and also encourages sycophancy. My dear brethren lets avoid any form of partiality in our lives and begin a new life in Christ today.
