Snobs? Snobs! What do you think… can Christians be snobs? Hint: can and should are not the same thing. Seriously… doesn’t snobs come from pride? Now the kicker – can Christians legitimately be prideful? Kinda depends on the focus of the pride, how it’s displayed, and the results from displaying it.???
” My fellow believers, do not practice your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of partiality [toward people—show no favoritism, no prejudice, no snobbery].” [James 2:1]
When you read on in verses 2-3 it is very clear that James is writing that snobbery should never exist by giving an example of unacceptable behavior. Perhaps the issue is expressing the joy we have in our salvation – sharing that without being prideful? Actually giving an invitation to the other person is the method because the Father never shows partiality.
However… was is reverse snobbery? Quite honestly I’d never heard of it. So what, exactly, is this?
“Reverse snobbery, also known as inverted snobbery or anti-snob snobbery, is a term used to describe someone who is overly proud of being associated with the common people and may look down on those who have more education, social standing, or ability.” [Google]
Aaaaa we’ve all seen this. But… do we do this? You really can get tripped up by being proud you’re saved. Being saved should be the foundational confidence to share our experiences with others and invite them into becoming part of the Family of God. The first step typically is how we share our experience at being saved and especially our continuing journey.
I’m beginning to think reverse snobs a mate with hypocrisy and yes, we’ve all seen that in churches. And how sad. The only reason we are saved and our names are written in the Book of Life is not in any way because of us. It’s the gracious mercy and grace by God that we are saved.
“For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]. ” [Ephesians 2:8-9]
When you see these verses, there’s no way you can be a snob. All the blessings and giftings come from the Father – we are the recipients and it is the Lord’s graciousness and mercy we receive because of His great love.
