James 2:5-9

When Jesus speaks of the poor, He refers not only to those without money, but also to those whose simple values are despised by many in our affluent society. Perhaps they prefer serving to managing; human relations to financial security; and peace to power. Maybe that is what they prefer. This does not mean that the poor will automatically be in God's Kingdom and the rich will miss out. Poor people, however, are usually more aware of their powerlessness making it easier for them to acknowledge their need for salvation. One of the greatest barriers to salvation for the rich is pride. For the poor, it is bitterness. We must treat all people as we would want to be treated ourselves. So we should not ignore the rich because doing so would be withholding love. But we must not favor them for what they do for us while ignoring the poor who can offer us little in return.