One learned powerful woman politician visited a religious leader. He would receive people of one particular community or caste with great enthusiasm and offer guests a seat. Also handing them respectfully some gifts. Others must stand in his presence, and he will just throw his gift to the devotee. This became a political storm.
Sadly, there were and are such caste discrimination within the church. There were separating walls between castes inside the church or separate churches of different castes. Now, those walls are removed, but invisible walls do exist.
Apostle James writes: “My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” (James 2:1-4)
1) Evidence of faith: True spirituality and faith is demonstrated in reflecting God’s attributes. God does not show partiality or play favoritism. Disciples are expected to love others, all humans and treat everyone with dignity.
2) Do not make distinctions: James exhorts disciples not to make distinctions based on human perspectives. There should not be distinctions based on caste, clan, income, education, position, power, gender, culture, nationality, age, language…etc.
3) Evil thoughts: Indignation of others, disrespectful attitude, prejudice against certain people, hierarchical mindset, hatred, superiority complex are evil thoughts that creates atmosphere for discrimination and even violence.
4) Judge: It is a sin to judge someone based on their external appearance. As humans it is not possible to understand others’ thoughts or deep emotions, hence judgement would be wrong. Suspending judgement, disciples should look for redeeming, reforming and renewing factors.
Am I free from the sin of discrimination?