James 2:9

But if ye have respect of persons (ei de proswpolhmpteite). Condition of first class by contrast with that in verse Luke 8 . For this verb (present active indicative), formed from proswpon lambanw, here alone in the N.T., see in Luke 2:1 . A direct reference to the partiality there pictured. Ye commit sin (amartian ergazesqe). "Ye work a sin." A serious charge, apparently, for what was regarded as a trifling fault. See Matthew 7:23 , oi ergazomenoi thn anomian (ye that work iniquity), an apparent reminiscence of the words of Jesus there (from Psalms 6:8 ). Being convicted (elegcomenoi). Present passive participle of elegcw, to convict by proof of guilt ( John 3:20 ; John 8:9 John 8:46 ; 1 Corinthians 14:24 ). As transgressors (w parabatai). For this word from parabainw, to step across, to transgress, see Galatians 2:18 ; Romans 2:25 Romans 2:27 . See this very sin of partiality condemned in Leviticus 19:15 ; Deuteronomy 1:17 ; Deuteronomy 16:19 . To the law and to the testimony.