James 2:13

"For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment." "For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy" -In the context, their terrible treatment of the poor man was. demonstration of having no mercy. The law of liberty condemns that type of behavior. See Matthew 5:7; Matthew 6:14; Matthew 18:23; Matthew 25:40. Here we find incentive to treat the poor man with proper respect, for none of these Christians and none of us can afford to face. judgment in which there is no mercy. This judgment will be merciless, because the person who fails to demonstrate mercy is violating the law of God, judgment without mercy would be strict justice, every sin getting its full punishment---this is the type of judgment that awaits every unbeliever and every unfaithful Christian. "mercy triumphs" -"to exult over" (Thayer p. 331). "glories in the face of" (Mon). That is the Christian who has been merciful can face the coming judgment with confidence and assurance."over judgment" -Please note that James is not teaching that mercy is the opposite of keeping the commands of God. Rather, showing mercy in the context involves keeping the command to love your neighbor as yourself. Those who continue to despise the poor can expect to receive no mercy at the judgment. The law of liberty cannot be contrasted with mercy, rather it defines, commands and exhorts Christians to be merciful. For example, when we approach. brother or sister privately concerning. sin in which they are involved, we are showing mercy. James is not teaching that being merciful covers habitual rebellion to God in other areas of our life, or makes up for not being. Christian. But rather, if we are doing the best we can to abide by God's law, and seeking forgiveness for when we sin, showing mercy to those in physical and spiritual need, then God will extend mercy to us at the last day (1 John 1:5).