In James 2:3, those who leave the poor person standing and neglected are spoken to sternly. However, the problem James has identified is not so much, or not just that believers are neglecting some because they are poor or because they have taken a disliking to them. Rather, the reason that the bias is there against the poor is because the churches seem to have a bias to someone else. They are too busy given their attention to fawning over wealthier people, making sure they are pampered and honoured with the special guest seats.
The challenge for us then is not just about whether we neglect and fail to care for the poor, needy and vulnerable, though this does matter. Rather, the challenge is whether or not we have a bias towards certain people and give them attention for all the wrong reasons.
Why would the early church have prioritised making a fuss over wealthy people? Well firstly because there was a temptation to see material prosperity as evidence of spiritual blessing. So, perhaps you would hope that a bit of faith would rub off on you. Secondly, you might be tempted to think that the wealthy person is more worthy of your attention because he has more to give. This could include
- More to give financially to help the church
- More to give because they will have got where they were through ability. Perhaps a rich person was seen as having more leadership potential
- More to give in that you want them to be visible because others are more likely to join you if they see rich and successful people in church.
- More to give on a personal level, perhaps they can help you out practically.
We can be at risk of thinking the same thoughts. In fact, we have seen that all too often when the Church has prioritised the wealthy, powerful, successful and connected in evangelism. We can fall into the trap when we are tempted to network, to get close to others in the hope that this will get us to the centre of power, influence and even spirituality.
Yes, it is important that we think about what we should be doing as churches to reach the poor. However, we should also be challenged to get rid of the idols of success, popularity and connection.
Faithroots 