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What does the Bible say about partiality?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that partiality is sin because God judges people impartially and calls His people to reflect His just and gracious character. Romans 2:11 and Acts 10:34-35 declare that God shows no favoritism, while Deuteronomy 10:17 praises Him as the great and incorruptible Judge. Therefore, Leviticus 19:15 forbids favoring either the poor or the powerful in judgment. James 2:1-4 especially warns the church not to honor the wealthy while humiliating the poor, since such distinctions contradict faith in the glorious Lord Jesus Christ. In Christ, Galatians 3:28 proclaims the equal standing of all believers, and 1 Timothy 5:21 calls leaders to act without prejudice.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Romans 2:11

    For there is no partiality with God.

  • James 2:1

    My brothers, don't hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ of glory with partiality.

  • Acts 10:34

    Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly I perceive that God doesn't show favoritism;

  • Galatians 3:28

    There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

  • Leviticus 19:15

    "'You shall do no injustice in judgment: you shall not be partial to the poor, nor show favoritism to the great; but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor.

  • James 2:4

    haven't you shown partiality among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?

  • 1 Timothy 5:21

    I charge you in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the chosen angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality.

  • Acts 10:34-35

    [34] Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly I perceive that God doesn't show favoritism; [35] but in every nation he who fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.

  • Proverbs 28:21

    To show partiality is not good; Yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.

  • Deuteronomy 10:17

    For Yahweh your God, he is God of gods, and Lord of lords, the great God, the mighty, and the awesome, who doesn't regard persons, nor takes reward.

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