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Sermon:\\u201cMercy Triumphs Over Judgement\\u201d
Scripture:James 2:1-13
Speaker:Pastor Mick Whistler

Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read James 2:1-13.

1. In this week\\u2019s passage, James speaks against favoritism. What does favoritism mean to you? Why is it bad and how can it be detrimental within the church?

2. James uses the specific example of showing favoritism to the rich. Do we still do this within the church today? If so, how?

3. Why do you think Jesus had such a penchant for the poor? Why did he call them blessed?

4. What did you think about the secular songs Pastor Mick referenced? Did any of the lyrics impact you? What does the fact that secular artists sing about this tell us about the commonality of the problem?

5. What is the Royal Law? How does (should) it impact our lives?

6. Why do you think Pastor Mick used Paul talking about the importance of love in 1 Corinthians 13 in this message speaking against favoritism?

7. How do you feel when you hear James say, \\u201cSpeak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom\\u201d? Why do you think you feel this way?

8. James says, \\u201cMercy triumphs over judgment.\\u201d What does this mean for us? How should this impact the way we live?

9. How does this passage remind you of God\\u2019s grace offered to you? What should be your response to this grace?

Prayer of the Week:
Gracious and Loving God, forgive us for the times we have practiced favoritism, even without realizing it. Forgive us for the times we have been quick to judge and slow to offer mercy. Help us to do better going forward. Help us to love others as you love us. Help us to offer your love, mercy and grace to everyone. Help us to live out the gospel in our everyday lives so that others will come to know and love you like we do. Add to our numbers daily those who are being saved. We pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.