If You Show Favoritism, You Sin
Analysis Of James 2:1-13 and Its Actualization with the Fifth HKBP’s Poda Tohonan Hapanditaon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62926/jtvd.v6i2.96Keywords:
church, rich, poor, favoritism, Poda TohonanAbstract
This paper aims to critique the acts of favoritism that occur within church congregations. Through descriptive qualitative research methods and literature studies that depart from the rhetorical criticism of James 2:1-13, it is concluded that favoritism is contrary to the law of love towards others: both the rich and the poor are equal before God. This text also aligns with the fifth Poda Tohonan Hapanditaon of HKBP, where pastors are mandated to care for and look after all members of the congregation. The results show that the use of the terms “guard” and “nurture” means that the pastor must fulfill the needs of all members of the congregation (physical and spiritual) so that they do not lack and move away from the church. As a shepherd, the pastor must first finish with himself to be able to realize the church's solidarity with the poor. Therefore, the church needs a spirituality of liberation and leadership that imitates Christ-who serves regardless of face- to truly be an inclusive and solidary space for the poor.
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