James 2:7
Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?
Original Language Analysis
αὐτοὶ
G846
αὐτοὶ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
2 of 10
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καλὸν
that worthy
G2570
καλὸν
that worthy
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
ὄνομα
name
G3686
ὄνομα
name
Strong's:
G3686
Word #:
6 of 10
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐπικληθὲν
are called
G1941
ἐπικληθὲν
are called
Strong's:
G1941
Word #:
8 of 10
to entitle; by implication, to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.)
Cross References
Acts 11:26And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.Psalms 111:9He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.Matthew 1:23Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.1 Timothy 1:13Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
Historical Context
Persecutors dragged Christians before authorities, pressuring them to deny Christ. Some wealthy Jews or Romans slandered the name of Jesus. James warns diaspora congregations not to court favor with those who publicly revile their Lord, similar to Paul's warning about unequal yokes.
Questions for Reflection
- Where might you be tempted to honor those who blaspheme Christ's name?
- How can you maintain gospel courage while engaging influential people?
- What practices keep Christ's name central in your decisions?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? These powerful people blaspheme (blasphēmeousin, βλασφημοῦσιν) the worthy name by which believers are called. To show them favoritism is to honor blasphemers of Christ's name. James ties social partiality to theological compromise.
Reformed believers treasure the name of Christ; honoring those who mock Him reveals misplaced fear. The royal law demands loyalty to Jesus above all alliances.