Favoritism, the act of showing preference or partiality toward certain individuals or groups, is a prevalent issue both in the world and sometimes even within faith communities. The Bible offers a strong perspective against favoritism, highlighting its destructive nature and contrasting it with God’s impartiality and love for all people.
Bible verses about favoritism expose the dangers of judging others based on external appearances, wealth, or social status. They remind us that God sees the heart and calls us to treat everyone with fairness, dignity, and respect, regardless of their background.
As we explore these verses, may they lead us to a deeper understanding of God’s heart for justice and equality. May they inspire within us a commitment to build communities free from favoritism, where all people are valued and treated with the love and respect they deserve as children of God.
Also Read: Top James Bible Verses (with Explanations)
Bible Verses About Favoritism
James 2:1 (NIV)
“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.”
James 2:1 admonishes believers against the practice of showing favoritism within the Christian community. The verse underscores the equality of all believers in the eyes of God, regardless of social status, wealth, or other external factors.
It emphasizes the need for impartiality and fairness in how individuals are treated, reflecting the inclusive nature of God’s love and grace.
Proverbs 28:21 (NIV)
“To show partiality is not good— yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.”
Proverbs 28:21 highlights the negative consequences of displaying partiality or favoritism. The verse points out that the pursuit of personal gain or advantage often leads individuals to compromise their integrity and engage in wrongdoing.
It serves as a cautionary reminder of the ethical pitfalls associated with favoritism, urging individuals to prioritize righteousness and justice in their interactions with others.
Romans 2:11 (NIV)
“For God does not show favoritism.”
Romans 2:11 declares the impartiality of God in His dealings with humanity. This verse emphasizes that God’s justice is not swayed by external factors such as wealth, status, or lineage.
It underscores the foundational principle of divine impartiality, highlighting God’s character as just and fair in all His judgments and actions.
Ephesians 6:9 (NIV)
“And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.”
Ephesians 6:9 addresses masters, urging them to treat their slaves with fairness and dignity. The verse emphasizes that both masters and slaves are accountable to the same heavenly Master, who shows no partiality.
It underscores the importance of equitable treatment and respect for all individuals, regardless of their social or economic status.
Colossians 3:25 (NIV)
“Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.”
Colossians 3:25 reaffirms the principle of divine justice without favoritism. The verse underscores that every individual will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their position or status in society.
It serves as a reminder of the universal application of God’s justice, where no one is exempt from the consequences of their wrongdoing.
Acts 10:34-35 (NIV)
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.'”
In Acts 10:34-35, Peter acknowledges the impartiality of God in accepting individuals from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. This passage highlights God’s inclusive invitation to salvation, extending His grace to all who seek Him in sincerity and obedience.
It emphasizes the universality of God’s love and the absence of favoritism in His redemptive plan.
Deuteronomy 10:17 (NIV)
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.”
Deuteronomy 10:17 exalts the character of God as the supreme authority who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. The verse emphasizes God’s absolute sovereignty and integrity, highlighting His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness.
It serves as a reminder of the holiness and impartiality of God, calling His people to reflect His character in their attitudes and actions toward others.
1 Timothy 5:21 (NIV)
“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.”
1 Timothy 5:21 issues a strong charge to believers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining instructions without partiality and avoiding actions driven by favoritism.
The verse highlights the solemnity of this directive, appealing to the witness of God, Christ Jesus, and the elect angels. It underscores the spiritual responsibility to uphold impartiality in all aspects of life, reflecting the integrity of the Christian walk.
Galatians 3:28 (NIV)
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Galatians 3:28 breaks down societal divisions, asserting the unity of believers in Christ. The verse dismantles distinctions based on ethnicity, social status, and gender, emphasizing the equal standing of all believers in the body of Christ.
It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of Christ’s work in breaking down barriers and fostering unity among diverse individuals.
Job 34:19 (NIV)
“who shows no partiality to princes and does not favor the rich over the poor, for they are all the work of his hands?”
In Job 34:19, Elihu describes God’s impartiality, emphasizing that He does not show favoritism based on social status. The verse underscores the equality of all individuals as the work of God’s hands, irrespective of their earthly positions.
It challenges the human tendency to discriminate based on external factors and encourages a perspective that mirrors God’s fairness in our dealings with others.
Luke 20:21-25 (NIV)
“So they asked him, ‘Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth.'”
In Luke 20:21-25, the religious leaders acknowledge Jesus’ commitment to teaching truth without showing partiality. This passage illustrates the contrast between Jesus’ integrity and the insincere motives of those questioning Him.
It serves as a lesson on maintaining steadfastness in truth and righteousness, free from biases or favoritism, as followers of Christ.
Proverbs 24:23 (NIV)
“These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good.”
Proverbs 24:23, a saying of the wise, straightforwardly declares the undesirability of showing partiality in judgment. The verse underscores the negative consequences of biased decision-making, encouraging a commitment to fair and equitable judgments.
It aligns with the broader biblical theme of justice, emphasizing the importance of impartiality in the application of God’s principles.
Acts 15:8-9 (NIV)
“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith.”
In Acts 15:8-9, Peter recounts God’s impartial acceptance of Gentiles into the community of believers. The passage highlights God’s knowledge of the heart and His willingness to extend the Holy Spirit without discrimination.
It emphasizes the transformative power of faith in purifying hearts, reinforcing the inclusive nature of God’s redemptive work.
Romans 2:6-11 (NIV)
“God ‘will repay each person according to what they have done.’ To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism.”
Romans 2:6-11 presents a comprehensive perspective on God’s impartial judgment. The passage outlines the principle of divine retribution based on one’s actions, with eternal life granted to those who persist in doing good.
It emphasizes the absence of favoritism in God’s justice, reiterating that every individual, regardless of their background, will be judged impartially according to their deeds.
Proverbs 22:2 (NIV)
“Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.”
Proverbs 22:2 emphasizes the commonality shared by people of different socio-economic statuses—their Creator is the same Lord.
This verse challenges notions of favoritism based on material wealth and reinforces the idea that all individuals, irrespective of their financial standing, are equally crafted by God.
Romans 12:16 (NIV)
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
Romans 12:16 encourages believers to live in harmony and humility, discouraging pride and urging association with people of low position.
This verse emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive relationships, reflecting the love of Christ in our interactions with others and avoiding the trap of showing favoritism.
Luke 6:35 (NIV)
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”
Luke 6:35 challenges believers to embody a love that goes beyond conventional boundaries. The verse calls for kindness even towards enemies and the ungrateful, echoing God’s impartial kindness.
It inspires followers of Christ to emulate God’s character by extending love and goodness without expecting reciprocation.
Job 36:5 (NIV)
“God is mighty, but despises no one; he is mighty, and firm in his purpose.”
Job 36:5 underscores God’s might and purpose while emphasizing that He despises no one. This verse reinforces the idea that God’s power is coupled with impartiality, and His divine purposes extend to all individuals.
It challenges believers to align their perspectives with God’s, recognizing the inherent value of every person.
Matthew 22:16 (NIV)
“They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. ‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are.'”
In Matthew 22:16, the disciples commend Jesus for His integrity and truthfulness. This passage highlights Jesus’ commitment to the way of God without being swayed by external factors such as status or identity.
It serves as an example for believers to follow—a call to uphold integrity and truth, free from the influence of favoritism.
1 Peter 1:17 (NIV)
“Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.”
1 Peter 1:17 directs believers to live in reverence and recognition of God as the impartial Judge. The verse underscores the importance of aligning one’s conduct with the understanding that God impartially judges each person’s work.
It serves as a reminder of the accountability believers have in their earthly sojourn.
Jeremiah 22:16 (NIV)
“He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me? declares the Lord.”
Jeremiah 22:16 highlights the essence of knowing God—defending the cause of the poor and needy. This verse accentuates the intimate connection between knowing God and actively engaging in justice and compassion.
It challenges believers to reflect God’s heart by showing no favoritism and advocating for the marginalized.
James 2:1-4 (NIV)
“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?”
James 2:1-4 explicitly addresses the issue of favoritism within the Christian community. This passage vividly portrays a scenario where believers differentiate between the rich and the poor, challenging the authenticity of faith that tolerates such discrimination.
It urges believers to treat all with equality, reflecting the impartial love of Christ.
Colossians 3:25 (NIV)
“Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.”
Colossians 3:25 reinforces the principle of divine justice without favoritism. The verse serves as a solemn reminder that every individual, regardless of their background or status, will be held accountable for their actions.
This aligns with the overarching biblical theme of impartiality in God’s judgment.
Deuteronomy 10:17-19 (NIV)
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”
Deuteronomy 10:17-19 emphasizes God’s character as impartial and just. The passage also highlights God’s care for the vulnerable, including the fatherless, widows, and foreigners.
It lays the foundation for the principle of loving and caring for others without discrimination, drawing inspiration from God’s example.
Ephesians 6:9 (NIV)
“And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.”
Ephesians 6:9 addresses masters, urging them to treat their slaves justly and without threats. The verse draws a parallel between earthly relationships and the overarching principle that God, as the ultimate Master, shows no favoritism.
This underscores the call for fairness and dignity in all human interactions.
Proverbs 28:21 (NIV)
“To show partiality is not good—yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.”
Proverbs 28:21 succinctly declares the undesirability of showing partiality. The verse underscores the gravity of compromising principles for personal gain, emphasizing that even a small reward should not justify unjust practices.
It challenges individuals to uphold integrity and resist the temptation to show favoritism.
Acts 10:34-35 (NIV)
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.'”
Acts 10:34-35 captures Peter’s realization about God’s impartiality. This revelation occurs as he understands that God accepts individuals from every nation who fear Him and live righteously.
The passage serves as a pivotal moment in the New Testament, highlighting the inclusivity of God’s grace and challenging cultural biases.
1 Corinthians 12:22-26 (NIV)
“On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.”
In 1 Corinthians 12:22-26, Paul uses the metaphor of the body to emphasize the equal importance of all believers within the Church. The passage challenges any inclination to show favoritism based on perceived strengths or weaknesses, encouraging mutual concern and honor for every member.
It reinforces the unity and equality of believers in Christ.
Galatians 3:28 (NIV)
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Galatians 3:28 transcends social and cultural distinctions, emphasizing the unity found in Christ. This verse eradicates the basis for favoritism by declaring that, in Christ, all believers share an equal standing regardless of ethnic, social, or gender differences.
It serves as a powerful reminder of the impartiality within the Christian community.
Acts 17:26 (NIV)
“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.”
Acts 17:26 highlights the common origin of humanity—God created all nations from one man. This verse underscores the unity of the human race and challenges any inclination towards favoritism based on national or ethnic distinctions.
It encourages believers to recognize the shared humanity of all people.
Romans 2:11 (NIV)
“For God does not show favoritism.”
Romans 2:11 serves as a straightforward declaration of God’s character. This verse reinforces the foundational principle that God is impartial in His dealings with humanity.
It echoes throughout Scripture, emphasizing the consistent and unchanging nature of God’s justice, mercy, and love for all individuals.
Also Read: Top James Bible Verses (with Explanations)
What Does the Bible Say About Favoritism?
The Bible strongly condemns favoritism and consistently upholds the principle of impartiality throughout its teachings. Favoritism, also referred to as partiality or showing undue preference to certain individuals over others, is seen as incompatible with the character of God and the ethical standards expected of believers.
Here are key themes from the Bible regarding favoritism:
God’s Impartiality: Numerous verses emphasize that God does not show favoritism (Romans 2:11). God’s justice and judgment are not influenced by external factors such as wealth, social status, or ethnicity. He treats every individual with equity, underscoring His impartial nature.
Equality in Christ: In the New Testament, especially in the writings of Paul, the idea of equality in Christ is prominent. Galatians 3:28 declares that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female. This concept challenges any form of discrimination within the Christian community and stresses the oneness of believers in Christ.
Call to Love All: The Bible consistently calls believers to love one another without partiality. James 2:1-4 provides a vivid illustration, warning against treating the wealthy with favoritism over the poor. It challenges the church to be a place where love and hospitality extend to all, regardless of external markers.
A Short Prayer for Overcoming Favoritism
Heavenly Father,
In Your presence, where there is no partiality or favoritism, we humbly come before You. We confess any tendencies within us to show favoritism, knowing that it goes against Your perfect love and justice. Help us, O Lord, to see others as You see them—valued and cherished.
Grant us the strength to overcome biases and prejudices that may hinder the unity of Your body, the Church. Fill our hearts with Your impartial love, that we may treat every person with kindness, respect, and genuine care, just as You have shown us.
Empower us by Your Spirit to live out the teachings of Your Word, seeking justice for the vulnerable and extending compassion to all. May our lives be a testimony to Your love, breaking down barriers and fostering a community where everyone is welcomed and valued.
We thank You, Lord, for Your grace that enables us to overcome favoritism. May Your love guide our interactions, conversations, and decisions. In the name of Jesus, who unites us all, we pray.
Amen.