1 Tim 5:21   I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.

  

This seems a strong injunction that Paul is making. I charge you – make sure you do this! In the sight of God – He will hold you accountable, and Christ Jesus – as your head he will hold you accountable, and the elect angels – you are to be a testimony to the onlooking angel hosts. Yes, this is strong stuff, i.e. make sure you follow these instructions.

 

But look at two supplementary injunctions – without partiality, and to do nothing out of favouritism. Of course we wouldn't, we say! Check again! Do we have exactly the same feelings about everyone who comes into the church, or do we prefer and esteem some more than others and, even worse, look down on some.

 

These verses become particularly applicable when we have one rule for one group and another standard for others. Do we tolerate misdemeanours in those who are dressed well and speak well, but expose and denounce them in those who might not be so well dressed and who may speak differently. We tend to favour those who are most like us, and not favour those who are most different from us. The church is supposed to be a body of varied people but who are all accepted on the same level. If we look down on any person or group of people, we are in fact doing what Paul warned against! Check it out!