The unjust preference of one individual or group over another is known as favoritism. Because it is contrary to [God’s character], Jesus, who is God the Son, does not show partiality. Romans 2:11 tells us that “God shows no partiality.” Ephesians 5:5–9 highlights again how equal everyone is in God’s eyes. Before God, all persons are equal—some are slave owners, and some are slaves themselves. He is impartial. In 1 Timothy 5:21, church leaders are likewise given a very clear directive not to exhibit favoritism. We may be absolutely certain that the Lord Jesus never unjustly favors one individual at the expense of another as God does not display prejudice and commands church leaders to do the same.
This does not imply, of course, that Jesus never makes a decision to favor one person over another. “He called His disciples and chose twelve from them,” according to Luke 6:13. Later, after Jairus’ daughter passed away, Jesus picked an even smaller group to enter his home: “He allowed no one to enter with Him, except Peter and John and James, and the child’s father and mother” (Luke 8:51). Additionally, “the Lord appointed seventy-two others” from the larger number of disciples (Luke 10:1).
Jesus chooses for various reasons
Thus, Jesus selects His disciples, and from among them, He selects an inner circle. It’s crucial to remember that this is not “unfair favoritism” in this situation. Jesus’ decision is fair for a variety of reasons.
- A lot of individuals didn’t want to follow Jesus as disciples. They were content to watch Jesus from a distance or even to be his opponents.
- For a given task, some people were a better fit than others. Before selecting His followers, Jesus prayed all night long (Luke 6:12). It is clear that He gave much thought to selecting the appropriate personnel. Given that Jesus is a whole human but we are not, we might not understand His motivations. However, we may rely on His wisdom.
- However, Jesus might pick someone in particular if the other person is unfit. God gains greater respect when He uses someone in that way. It is evident that God’s grace alone is to be commended, not inherent ability.
- No one was entitled to selection. It was a blessing that Jesus gave some individuals without conditions. That brought them so great grace. Others, however, had no justification for objecting because no one could force Jesus to comply with their wishes. It’s not the other way around; he instructs us what to do.
Serving Jesus will bring us closer to Him
Jesus still selects some individuals for particular roles inside His church. That’s not favoritism; that’s grace. Let’s gladly take on the responsibilities He gives us. Serving Him is a privilege, no matter what He asks. Serving Jesus with joy will draw us closer to Him, regardless of how much respect we receive from others inside and beyond the church. That alone is a worthy prize.
