James 2:9

9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.

James 2:9 Meaning and Commentary

James 2:9

But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin,
&c] This is not doing well, but is a transgression of the law, as every sin is; hence it follows,

and are convinced of the law as transgressors;
which carries on a formal process against such persons; it accuses them of sin, and charges them with it; it proves it upon them, and convicts them of it; it pronounces them guilty, and curses them for it; and passes the sentence of condemnation and death upon them; wherefore care should be taken not to commit this sin, and so fall under the convictions and reproofs of the law.

James 2:9 In-Context

7 Are they not the ones who blaspheme the noble name by which you have been called?

8 If you really fulfill the royal law stated in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.

9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.

10 Whoever keeps the whole law but stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.

11 For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.