James 2:8-13

The Royal Law

James seemingly anticipated their response. Perhaps they would say they were only following the law, fit for kings, which said they should love their neighbor as themselves (Leviticus 19:18). James said it would be fine if they really practiced that law. He just did not want them to do so to the exclusion of one class of people. The law also forbade prejudice (Deuteronomy 16:19-20). Woods says "you commit sin" literally translated is you "work sin." They apparently did not just slip into sin but intentionally practiced it (James 2:8-9).

Since they might appeal to the law of Moses, James showed that one who breaks one part of the law is a law breaker. Thus, he would stand condemned by the law. The law is taken as a unit because it all comes from one source, God. To violate one part is to stand condemned by the whole law as a transgressor. Ultimately, we should speak and live as those who will be judged by the perfect law of liberty. In Christ, we are free from the condemnation of sin (Romans 8:1-2). Of course, being free should not make us want to abuse our freedom and return to bondage (James 2:10-12; Galatians 5:13-14).

Each person's judgment will be based upon how he has dealt with others. If he has failed to show pity on those in need, he can expect no pity. Jesus' parable of the judgment shows the importance of caring for the needs of others. Those who failed heard, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me" (Matthew 25:41-46; Matthew 18:23-35). Mercy will stand above judgment, so those who have been merciful have no need to fear (James 2:13; 1 John 4:16-18).