James 2:7

Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

James 2:7 (KJV)

Context

The Book of James is a letter written by James, who is believed to be the brother of Jesus, to Jewish believers scattered throughout various regions. It addresses practical aspects of the Christian faith and emphasizes the importance of genuine faith that is expressed through good works. In the surrounding verses, James rebukes favoritism toward the rich and dishonor of the poor within the Christian community. He has just asked whether the rich are not the ones who oppress believers and drag them into court (James 2:6). Now he asks whether they blaspheme the worthy name by which believers are called.

Meaning

James 2:7 points to a specific issue within the early Christian community. It highlights the way in which individuals were treating the “worthy name” of Christ by which they were called. The verse implies that certain individuals were blaspheming or dishonoring this name through their actions or attitudes. Blasphemy refers to speaking or acting in a way that shows contempt, irreverence, or disrespect towards God or sacred things. In this context, the worthy name being blasphemed is the name of Jesus Christ. By their behavior, these individuals were bringing dishonor to the name of Jesus and undermining the reputation and significance of the Christian faith.

The phrase “by the which ye are called” literally means “which was called upon you,” indicating that the name of Christ was invoked over believers, likely at baptism, marking them as belonging to Christ. This is similar to a wife bearing her husband’s name or a child bearing the father’s name. Believers bear the name of Christ and are to live suitably to that name. If they do not adorn it with becoming conduct, the worthy name of Christ is blasphemed through them.

Biblical connections

In the Bible, names often carry significant meaning. The name of Jesus Christ represents His authority, character, and redemptive work. Believers are called by His name, indicating their identification with Him and their commitment to follow His teachings. Therefore, any dishonoring of the name of Jesus reflects poorly on the faith and the character of those who claim to be His followers. The rich, whether unbelieving oppressors or professing believers who mistreat the poor, blaspheme this name through their actions. Unbelieving rich men blasphemed and cursed the name of Christ and compelled others to do so. Professing believers, by their contemptuous treatment of poor brethren and by dragging them into heathen courts, caused the name of Christ to be blasphemed among the Gentiles.

Application

James 2:7 challenges believers to examine their actions and attitudes to ensure they align with the teachings of Jesus. It reminds us to treat others with love, respect, and fairness, regardless of their social status or outward appearance. Our behavior should reflect the character of Christ and bring honor to His name. The verse warns that the conduct of believers can bring dishonor to the name of Christ. Therefore, believers are to live in a way that adorns the name they bear, treating others with love and equality, just as Christ taught.

Reflection

In summary, James 2:7 emphasizes the importance of not blaspheming or dishonoring the name of Jesus by mistreating others or showing favoritism. It calls believers to live out their faith in a way that brings honor to the name they are called by, treating others with love and equality, just as Christ taught.