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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>James 2:3 If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, "Here is a seat of honor," but say to the poor man, "You must stand" or "Sit at my feet,"</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/james/2-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/3/59_Jas_02_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="James 2:3 - A Warning against Favoritism" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, Here is a seat of honor, but say to the poor man, You must stand or Sit at my feet," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: <a href="/nkjv/james/2.htm">New King James Version</a> and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say to him, “You sit here in a good place,” and say to the poor man, “You stand there,” or, “Sit here at my footstool,” <a href="/nasb_/james/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the bright clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” <a href="/nasb/james/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, &#8220You sit here in a good place,&#8221 and you say to the poor man, &#8220You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/james/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” <a href="/lsb/james/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the bright clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” <a href="/amp/james/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and you pay special attention to the one who wears the fine clothes, and say to him, “You sit here in this good seat,” and you tell the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down [on the floor] by my footstool,” <a href="/csb/james/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> if you look with favor on the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Sit here in a good place,” and yet you say to the poor person, “Stand over there,” or “Sit here on the floor by my footstool,” <a href="/hcsb/james/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> If you look with favor on the man wearing the fine clothes and say, &#8220Sit here in a good place,&#8221 and yet you say to the poor man, &#8220Stand over there,&#8221 or, &#8220Sit here on the floor by my footstool,&#8221 <a href="/asv/james/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool; <a href="/cev/james/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You must not give the best seat to the one in fancy clothes and tell the one who is poor to stand at the side or sit on the floor. <a href="/erv/james/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool; <a href="/gwt/james/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Suppose you give special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say to him, "Please have a seat." But you say to the poor man, "Stand over there," or "Sit on the floor at my feet." <a href="/gnt/james/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> If you show more respect to the well-dressed man and say to him, "Have this best seat here," but say to the poor man, "Stand over there, or sit here on the floor by my feet," <a href="/isv/james/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> If you give special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Please take this seat," but you say to the poor man, "Stand over there" or "Sit on the floor at my feet," <a href="/msb/james/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, ?Here is a seat of honor,? but say to the poor man, ?You must stand? or ?Sit here under footstool,? <a href="/net/james/2.htm">NET Bible</a> do you pay attention to the one who is finely dressed and say, "You sit here in a good place," and to the poor person, "You stand over there," or "Sit on the floor"? <a href="/nheb/james/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> and you pay special attention to the one who wears the fine clothing, and say, "Sit here in a good place;" but you tell the poor person, "Stand there," or "Sit by my footstool." <a href="/wbt/james/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say to him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: <a href="/wey/james/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> and you pay court to the one who wears the fine clothes, and say, "Sit here; this is a good place;" while to the poor man you say, "Stand there, or sit on the floor at my feet;" <a href="/web/james/2.htm">World English Bible</a> and you pay special attention to him who wears the fine clothing and say, “Sit here in a good place;” and you tell the poor man, “Stand there,” or “Sit by my footstool” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/james/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and you may look on him bearing the radiant clothing, and may say to him, “You—sit here well,” and may say to the poor man, “You—stand there,” or, “Sit here under my footstool,” <a href="/blb/james/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> and you should look upon the one wearing the splendid apparel and should say, "You sit here honorably," and to the poor should say, "You stand," or, "Sit there under my footstool," <a href="/ylt/james/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and ye may look upon him bearing the gay raiment, and may say to him, 'Thou -- sit thou here well,' and to the poor man may say, 'Thou -- stand thou there, or, Sit thou here under my footstool,' -- <a href="/slt/james/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And ye look toward him bearing the brilliant clothing, and ye say to him, Sit thou well here; and to the beggar ye say, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/james/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And you have respect to him that is clothed with the fine apparel, and shall say to him: Sit thou here well; but say to the poor man: Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool: <a href="/cpdv/james/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> and if you are then attentive to the one who is clothed in excellent apparel, so that you say to him, “You may sit in this good place,” but you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit below my footstool,” <a href="/nabre/james/2.htm">New American Bible</a> and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Sit here, please,” while you say to the poor one, “Stand there,” or “Sit at my feet,” <a href="/nrsvce/james/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> and if you take notice of the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Have a seat here, please,” while to the one who is poor you say, “Stand there,” or, “Sit at my feet,”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/james/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And you should attend to the one who wears the beautiful clothing, and say to him, Sit here in a good place; and say to the poor man, Stand up there, or sit here before our footstool; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/james/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And you have regard for him wearing fine clothing, and you say to him, “Sit well here”, and you say to the poor man, “Stand over there or sit here before our footstool.”,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/james/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> and you show regard to him that wears the splendid apparel, and say to him, Sit here, in an honorable place; and you say to the poor man, Do you stand there, or sit here, under my footstool; <a href="/godbey/james/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> and you may look upon the one wearing the shining garment, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and may say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit down beneath my footstool: <a href="/haweis/james/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> and ye fix your eyes upon him who bears the splendid robe, and say to him, Sit thou here in an honourable place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: <a href="/mace/james/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> if you should respectfully say to the suit of fine cloths, sit you there, that's for quality; and to the poor man, stand thou there, or place your self at my feet: <a href="/wey/james/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> and you pay court to the one who wears the fine clothes, and say, "Sit here; this is a good place;" while to the poor man you say, "Stand there, or sit on the floor at my feet;" <a href="/worrell/james/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> and ye show regard to him who is wearing the splendid apparel, and say, "Sit here in a good place"; and say to the poor man, "Stand, or sit under my footstool"; <a href="/worsley/james/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and ye turn your eyes toward him that weareth the fine clothes, and say to him, Sit thou here in an honorable place; and say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: <a href="/parallel/james/2-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0xUBCzqsAGw?start=259" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/james/2.htm">A Warning against Favoritism</a> …2Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">If</a> <a href="/greek/1914.htm" title="1914: epiblepsēte (V-ASA-2P) -- To look with favor on, regard. From epi and blepo; to gaze at.">you lavish attention</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: epi (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">on</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the man</a> <a href="/greek/5409.htm" title="5409: phorounta (V-PPA-AMS) -- To carry, wear, bear constantly. From phoros; to have a burden, i.e. to wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2986.htm" title="2986: lampran (Adj-AFS) -- From the same as lampas; radiant; by analogy, limpid; figuratively, magnificent or sumptuous.">fine</a> <a href="/greek/2066.htm" title="2066: esthēta (N-AFS) -- Clothing, raiment, vestment, robe. From hennumi; dress.">clothes</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipēte (V-ASA-2P) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">say,</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: Sy (PPro-N2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">“</a> <a href="/greek/5602.htm" title="5602: hōde (Adv) -- From an adverb form of hode; in this same spot, i.e. Here or hither.">Here is</a> <a href="/greek/2521.htm" title="2521: kathou (V-PMM/P-2S) -- To sit, be seated, enthroned; I dwell, reside. From kata; and hemai; to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside.">a seat</a> <a href="/greek/2573.htm" title="2573: kalōs (Adv) -- Well, nobly, honorably, rightly. Adverb from kalos; well.">of honor,”</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">but</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipēte (V-ASA-2P) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">say</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to the</a> <a href="/greek/4434.htm" title="4434: ptōchō (Adj-DMS) -- Poor, destitute, spiritually poor, either in a good sense (humble devout persons) or bad. ">poor man,</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: Sy (PPro-N2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">“You</a> <a href="/greek/2476.htm" title="2476: stēthi (V-AMA-2S) -- A prolonged form of a primary stao stah'-o; to stand, used in various applications.">must stand”</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/2521.htm" title="2521: Kathou (V-PMM/P-2S) -- To sit, be seated, enthroned; I dwell, reside. From kata; and hemai; to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside.">“Sit</a> <a href="/greek/1563.htm" title="1563: ekei (Adv) -- (a) there, yonder, in that place, (b) thither, there. Of uncertain affinity; there; by extension, thither."></a> <a href="/greek/5259.htm" title="5259: hypo (Prep) -- A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when).">at</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5286.htm" title="5286: hypopodion (N-ANS) -- A footstool. Neuter of a compound of hupo and pous; something under the feet, i.e. A foot-rest.">feet,”</a> 4have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/7-1.htm">Matthew 7:1-2</a> “Do not judge, or you will be judged. / For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. <a href="/leviticus/19-15.htm">Leviticus 19:15</a> You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly. <a href="/proverbs/24-23.htm">Proverbs 24:23</a> These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good. <a href="/romans/2-11.htm">Romans 2:11</a> For God does not show favoritism. <a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a> But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” <a href="/galatians/3-28.htm">Galatians 3:28</a> There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. <a href="/deuteronomy/1-17.htm">Deuteronomy 1:17</a> Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.” <a href="/acts/10-34.htm">Acts 10:34-35</a> Then Peter began to speak: “I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, / but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-26.htm">1 Corinthians 1:26-29</a> Brothers, consider the time of your calling: Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were powerful; not many were of noble birth. / But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. / He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, ... <a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm">Proverbs 22:2</a> The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is Maker of them all. <a href="/colossians/3-11.htm">Colossians 3:11</a> Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. <a href="/job/34-19.htm">Job 34:19</a> who is not partial to princes and does not favor rich over poor? For they are all the work of His hands. <a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Luke 20:46-47</a> “Beware of the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, and they love the greetings in the marketplaces, the chief seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets. / They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.” <a href="/malachi/2-9.htm">Malachi 2:9</a> “So I in turn have made you despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not kept My ways, but have shown partiality in matters of the law.” <a href="/1_peter/1-17.htm">1 Peter 1:17</a> Since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And you have respect to him that wears the gay clothing, and say to him, Sit you here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand you there, or sit here under my footstool:ye.<a href="/jude/1-16.htm">Jude 1:16</a> These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.in a good place.<a href="/james/2-6.htm">James 2:6</a> But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?<a href="/isaiah/65-5.htm">Isaiah 65:5</a> Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.<a href="/luke/7-44.htm">Luke 7:44-46</a> And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/james/2-2.htm">Apparel</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-1.htm">Attention</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Clothes</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Clothing</a> <a href="/galatians/4-17.htm">Court</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Fine</a> <a href="/acts/27-39.htm">Floor</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-13.htm">Footstool</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Gay</a> <a href="/james/1-17.htm">Good</a> <a href="/matthew/25-6.htm">Here's</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-4.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-30.htm">Pay</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-21.htm">Please</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/james/2-1.htm">Position</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Raiment</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-5.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/james/2-1.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-12.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-2.htm">Seated</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Show</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-12.htm">Sit</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-9.htm">Special</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Splendid</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-20.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-8.htm">Weareth</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Wearing</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-4.htm">Wears</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_peter/3-3.htm">Apparel</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-1.htm">Attention</a> <a href="/james/2-15.htm">Clothes</a> <a href="/james/2-15.htm">Clothing</a> <a href="/james/2-6.htm">Court</a> <a href="/james/2-7.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-3.htm">Fine</a> <a href="/genesis/50-10.htm">Floor</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/28-2.htm">Footstool</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Gay</a> <a href="/james/2-7.htm">Good</a> <a href="/matthew/25-6.htm">Here's</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-7.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/james/5-4.htm">Pay</a> <a href="/genesis/12-13.htm">Please</a> <a href="/james/2-5.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/james/2-9.htm">Position</a> <a href="/revelation/3-5.htm">Raiment</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-11.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/james/2-9.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/revelation/1-4.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/revelation/3-21.htm">Seated</a> <a href="/james/2-9.htm">Show</a> <a href="/james/4-12.htm">Sit</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-4.htm">Special</a> <a href="/revelation/18-14.htm">Splendid</a> <a href="/james/4-7.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/job/13-28.htm">Weareth</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-3.htm">Wearing</a> <a href="/job/14-19.htm">Wears</a><div class="vheading2">James 2</div>1. <a href="/james/2-1.htm">Do not regard the rich and despise the poor brothers;</a> 13. <a href="/james/2-13.htm">rather we are to be loving and merciful;</a> 14. <a href="/james/2-14.htm">and not to boast of faith without deeds;</a> 17. <a href="/james/2-17.htm">because faith without deeds is useless;</a> 19. <a href="/james/2-19.htm">as is the faith of the demons;</a> 21. <a href="/james/2-21.htm">however, Abraham displayed both faith and actions;</a> 25. <a href="/james/2-25.htm">as did Rahab.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/james/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes This phrase addresses the issue of favoritism based on outward appearances, a common practice in the ancient world where social status was often determined by wealth and attire. The "fine clothes" symbolize wealth and social standing, which were highly regarded in the Greco-Roman culture. The Bible consistently warns against judging by appearances (<a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a>) and emphasizes that God looks at the heart. This teaching aligns with Jesus' message in the Gospels, where He often criticized the Pharisees for their outward displays of piety while neglecting inner righteousness (<a href="/matthew/23-27.htm">Matthew 23:27-28</a>).and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” Offering a "seat of honor" reflects the cultural practices of the time, where seating arrangements at gatherings were indicative of one's social rank. In Jewish and Greco-Roman societies, the best seats were reserved for those of higher status, as seen in <a href="/luke/14-7.htm">Luke 14:7-11</a>, where Jesus teaches about humility and the dangers of seeking honor for oneself. This phrase challenges believers to reject societal norms that elevate the wealthy and powerful, urging them to treat all individuals with equal respect and dignity.but say to the poor man, “You must stand” The instruction for the poor man to "stand" highlights the discrimination and marginalization faced by the economically disadvantaged. In the early church, there was a strong emphasis on equality and unity among believers, regardless of social or economic status (<a href="/galatians/3-28.htm">Galatians 3:28</a>). This phrase serves as a reminder of the biblical mandate to care for the poor and to avoid partiality, as seen in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles (<a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm">Proverbs 22:2</a>, <a href="/acts/10-34.htm">Acts 10:34-35</a>).or “Sit at my feet,” To tell someone to "sit at my feet" was a position of subservience and inferiority, often reserved for servants or those of lower status. This phrase underscores the improper treatment and devaluation of the poor, contrary to the teachings of Christ, who elevated the lowly and served others (<a href="/john/13-14.htm">John 13:14-15</a>). The early church was called to be a counter-cultural community that reflected the values of the Kingdom of God, where the last would be first and the first last (<a href="/matthew/20-16.htm">Matthew 20:16</a>). This teaching encourages believers to embody the humility and impartiality exemplified by Jesus.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/james.htm">James</a> The author of the epistle, traditionally identified as James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes to Jewish Christians scattered among the nations. 2. <a href="/topical/r/rich_man.htm">Rich Man</a> Represents those who are wealthy and often receive preferential treatment in society and, as James warns, in the church. 3. <a href="/topical/p/poor_man.htm">Poor Man</a> Symbolizes those who are economically disadvantaged and often marginalized or treated with less respect. 4. <a href="/topical/e/early_church.htm">Early Church</a> The context in which James writes, addressing issues of partiality and favoritism within the Christian community. 5. <a href="/topical/s/synagogue/assembly.htm">Synagogue/Assembly</a> The setting for the scenario James describes, likely referring to a gathering of believers where such favoritism might occur.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/avoiding_favoritism.htm">Avoiding Favoritism</a> As Christians, we are called to treat all individuals with equal respect and dignity, regardless of their social or economic status. Favoritism contradicts the law of love and the character of God. <a href="/topical/r/reflecting_god's_character.htm">Reflecting God's Character</a> God shows no partiality, and as His followers, we should strive to reflect His impartial nature in our interactions with others. <a href="/topical/t/the_dangers_of_materialism.htm">The Dangers of Materialism</a> Placing value on material wealth can lead to unjust treatment of others. We must guard our hearts against valuing people based on their possessions. <a href="/topical/c/community_and_equality.htm">Community and Equality</a> The church should be a place where all are welcomed and valued equally, reflecting the unity and equality found in Christ. <a href="/topical/p/practical_love.htm">Practical Love</a> Demonstrating love through actions, such as offering a seat of honor to those who are often overlooked, is a practical application of our faith.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_james_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from James 2</a> <a href="/q/do_titus_3_5-6_and_james_2_17_conflict.htm">Does Titus 3:5-6, emphasizing salvation by mercy alone, conflict with James 2:17, which stresses the necessity of good works?</a> <a href="/q/why_are_teachers_judged_more_strictly.htm">In James 3:1, why single out teachers for stricter judgment, seemingly contradicting passages like Romans 2:11 that imply all are judged equally?</a> <a href="/q/does_james_2_14-17_contradict_romans_3_28.htm">(James 2:14-17) Doesn't insisting on works contradict passages elsewhere that claim faith alone is sufficient for salvation (e.g., Romans 3:28)?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_abraham's_faith_'righteousness'.htm">In Romans 4:3, how can Abraham's faith be considered 'righteousness' when James 2:21-24 suggests a different view of his justification?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/james/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing (or, bright apparel).--Look on him, that is, because of his fine appearance, with undue respect and consideration.And say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place (or, as margin, well); and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool.--The sidesman or elder in charge of the church finds a stall for the person of substantial presence, while anything does for the poor one; but--most considerate offer--he can stand; or, if he prefer it, sit under the great man's footstool, lower down, that is, on the floor beneath. We know Christ's words for those who loved of old "the chief seats in the synagogues" (<a href="/matthew/23-6.htm" title="And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,">Matthew 23:6</a>), nor can there be doubt as to their full application now. What is to be urged in excuse for the special pews in churches and chapels, hired and appropriated, furnished luxuriously, and secured by bolt and lock? If in the high places sit the men and women in goodly raiment still, while the poorly clad are crowded into side benches and corners, or beneficently told to stand and wait till room be found somewhere beneath the daintier feet,--how can there be escape from condemnation on the charge which follows?--namely this-- <a href="/commentaries/james/2-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>[If] δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. you lavish attention ἐπιβλέψητε (epiblepsēte) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1914.htm">Strong's 1914: </a> To look with favor on, regard. From epi and blepo; to gaze at. on ἐπὶ (epi) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. the [man] τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. in φοροῦντα (phorounta) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5409.htm">Strong's 5409: </a> To carry, wear, bear constantly. From phoros; to have a burden, i.e. to wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment. fine λαμπρὰν (lampran) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2986.htm">Strong's 2986: </a> From the same as lampas; radiant; by analogy, limpid; figuratively, magnificent or sumptuous. clothes ἐσθῆτα (esthēta) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2066.htm">Strong's 2066: </a> Clothing, raiment, vestment, robe. From hennumi; dress. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. say, εἴπητε (eipēte) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. “Here [is] ὧδε (hōde) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5602.htm">Strong's 5602: </a> From an adverb form of hode; in this same spot, i.e. Here or hither. a seat κάθου (kathou) Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2521.htm">Strong's 2521: </a> To sit, be seated, enthroned; I dwell, reside. From kata; and hemai; to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside. of honor,” καλῶς (kalōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2573.htm">Strong's 2573: </a> Well, nobly, honorably, rightly. Adverb from kalos; well. [but] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. say εἴπητε (eipēte) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. to the τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. poor [man] πτωχῷ (ptōchō) Adjective - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4434.htm">Strong's 4434: </a> Poor, destitute, spiritually poor, either in a good sense (humble devout persons) or bad. “You Σὺ (Sy) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. must stand,” στῆθι (stēthi) Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2476.htm">Strong's 2476: </a> A prolonged form of a primary stao stah'-o; to stand, used in various applications. or, ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. “Sit Κάθου (Kathou) Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2521.htm">Strong's 2521: </a> To sit, be seated, enthroned; I dwell, reside. From kata; and hemai; to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside. at ὑπὸ (hypo) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5259.htm">Strong's 5259: </a> A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when). my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. feet,” ὑποπόδιόν (hypopodion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5286.htm">Strong's 5286: </a> A footstool. Neuter of a compound of hupo and pous; something under the feet, i.e. A foot-rest. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/james/2-3.htm">NT Letters: James 2:3 And you pay special attention to him (Ja Jas. Jam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/james/2-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="James 2:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="James 2:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/james/2-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="James 2:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="James 2:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>