James 2:1

My brethren. See on James 1:2. This common phrase is especially suitable because of the stress here placed on the principle of equality. If church members keep themselves “unspotted from the world” (James 1:27), they will carefully avoid discriminating between fellow believers because of wealth or poverty.

Have not. The context suggests that there had been favoritism in the church toward the “rich.” The apostle’s counsel was therefore directed to an immediate problem in local churches.

Faith of our Lord. The Greek may mean either “our Lord’s faith” or “faith in our Lord.” Here, the context implies that the latter is intended (see on Mark 11:22; Eph. 3:12).

Glory. Literally, “the glory” (cf. 1 Cor. 2:8). Our Lord Jesus possesses all the prerogatives of Deity (see Vol. V, p. 919). He is the “King of glory” (Ps. 24:7). In proper perspective, even the richest of men is poor compared with the saint who shares the inheritance of the Lord of “glory” (see on Rom. 8:17).

Respect of persons. Gr. prosopolepsiai, “acts of partiality” (see on Rom. 2:11). In keeping themselves “unspotted from the world” (James 1:27) church members must be careful lest riches and worldly position are made qualifications for church office, in place of the needed spiritual graces.