The Jews had a practice of seating the most important people nearest the sacred scrolls in the synagogue. Other (less important) people would be seated in the back. This unhealthy practice was still carried on by some Christians in Jerusalem in the time of James, the half-brother of Jesus. Those with the most important jobs or roles would get preferred seating.
Thus, James speaks out against this. He made it clear that it is our relationship with Christ that gives us dignity, not our profession or possessions. The Christian answer is not reverse discrimination—treating the poor like royalty and the rich like scum. Our goal is to treat people without consideration for their status. No one is unworthy to be seated. A man’s WORTH is not based on his WEALTH.
- Precept Austin