“My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons” (James 2:1).

Evidently the believers in the early church were much like us, in that they tended to honor and favor wealthy individuals in their congregations. James commands them to reject such partiality, and gives the reasons why.

“But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption” (I Corinthians 1:30).

“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good” (I Thessalonians 5:21).

Many have quoted this verse as if it were a command to believe nothing unless it has been proven by careful demonstration or logic. But this is not the proper meaning of this verse, for it runs counter to Scripture’s grand theme of faith.

“For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).

“Thus saith the LORD; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the LORD” (Jeremiah 31:37).