Favoritism is a common issue in human relationships, but the Bible strongly warns against it. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, God emphasizes justice, impartiality, and love for all people. One of the most direct verses about favoritism is found in James 2:1:
‘My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.’ (James 2:1, NIV)
This verse sets the foundation for understanding favoritism from a biblical perspective. In this topic, we will explore:
- Key Bible verses about favoritism
- Why favoritism is wrong according to Scripture
- Examples of favoritism in the Bible
- How Christians can avoid favoritism today
What Does the Bible Say About Favoritism?
1. James 2:1-9 – Favoritism and the Sin of Partiality
In James 2:1-9, James gives a strong warning about favoritism, especially in how Christians treat the rich and the poor.
‘Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?’ (James 2:2-4, NIV)
James makes it clear that showing favoritism is a sin. God does not judge people based on wealth, status, or appearance, and neither should we.
2. Romans 2:11 – God Shows No Favoritism
Paul reminds us in Romans 2:11:
‘For God does not show favoritism.’ (Romans 2:11, NIV)
This verse establishes that God is impartial and judges all people fairly, regardless of their background, wealth, or social standing. If God does not show favoritism, neither should His followers.
3. Colossians 3:25 – Justice Without Partiality
Paul also warns against favoritism in Colossians 3:25:
‘Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.’ (Colossians 3:25, NIV)
This verse highlights that God’s justice is fair and equal. No one gets special treatment because of their position, power, or influence.
4. Proverbs 28:21 – The Danger of Favoritism
The Old Testament also warns against favoritism.
‘To show partiality is not good-yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.’ (Proverbs 28:21, NIV)
This verse reveals that favoritism often leads to injustice and corruption. Even small acts of favoritism can result in compromising moral values.
Examples of Favoritism in the Bible
Favoritism is not just a theoretical concept; the Bible gives many examples of how it affected individuals, families, and even nations.
1. Jacob’s Favoritism Toward Joseph (Genesis 37:3-4)
One of the most famous examples of favoritism is Jacob’s preference for his son Joseph:
‘Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.’ (Genesis 37:3-4, NIV)
Jacob’s favoritism created jealousy and division among his sons, leading to Joseph’s betrayal and slavery. This story shows that favoritism in families can cause deep wounds and broken relationships.
2. Isaac’s Favoritism Toward Esau and Rebekah’s Favoritism Toward Jacob (Genesis 25:28)
Another tragic example is in the story of Isaac and Rebekah’s twin sons, Esau and Jacob:
‘Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.’ (Genesis 25:28, NIV)
This favoritism led to deceit, conflict, and division within the family. It caused Jacob to trick Esau out of his birthright, leading to years of family separation and hardship.
3. Jesus’ Fairness to All People
Unlike human leaders, Jesus never showed favoritism. He treated everyone with love and respect, whether they were:
- Rich or poor (Luke 21:1-4)
- Pharisees or tax collectors (Luke 19:1-10)
- Jews or Gentiles (John 4:1-26)
Jesus’ example teaches us that true love is impartial and inclusive.
Why Does the Bible Condemn Favoritism?
1. Favoritism Creates Division
In families, favoritism destroys relationships and leads to jealousy, as seen in Joseph’s story. In churches, it causes conflict and discouragement among believers.
2. Favoritism Leads to Injustice
When people favor the rich or powerful, they neglect the needs of the weak and vulnerable. This goes against God’s call for justice and fairness.
3. Favoritism Contradicts God’s Character
Since God is just and impartial, Christians are called to reflect His character by treating everyone with equality and love.
4. Favoritism Weakens Christian Witness
When non-believers see favoritism in Christian communities, it damages the testimony of the church. Christians are called to be lights in the world, demonstrating God’s love without bias.
How Can Christians Avoid Favoritism?
1. See People Through God’s Eyes
Instead of judging based on appearance, wealth, or status, recognize that all people are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).
2. Treat Everyone Equally
- In church: Welcome all people, regardless of their background.
- At work: Show fairness in promotions and opportunities.
- In families: Love all children equally without favoritism.
3. Follow Jesus’ Example
Jesus showed love and respect to everyone, from the outcasts to the religious leaders. Christians should model His love in their interactions.
4. Rely on the Holy Spirit
Pray for wisdom and humility to avoid favoritism. The Holy Spirit helps believers act with love and fairness.
Common Questions About Favoritism in the Bible
1. Is Favoritism a Sin?
Yes. James 2:9 clearly states:
‘But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
Favoritism is a form of injustice and discrimination, which goes against God’s righteousness.
2. Why Did God Choose Israel? Isn’t That Favoritism?
God chose Israel not out of favoritism, but to bring His message to all nations (Genesis 12:1-3). His plan was always for the entire world (John 3:16).
3. Can God Forgive Someone Who Has Shown Favoritism?
Yes! God’s grace is available to all who repent and seek to change. He calls believers to correct their ways and treat others with fairness.
God Calls Us to Be Impartial
Favoritism is a serious issue that can cause division, injustice, and spiritual harm. However, the Bible is clear: God shows no favoritism, and neither should His people.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Favoritism is a sin and contradicts God’s nature.
✅ The Bible gives clear warnings against partiality (James 2:1, Romans 2:11).
✅ Jesus treated everyone with love and fairness, setting an example for believers.
✅ Christians must reject favoritism and reflect God’s justice and love.
By treating everyone with respect, kindness, and fairness, we reflect the true heart of God.