2d • Wisdom
Respect of Persons
‘These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.’ Proverbs 24:23
This verse introduces a principle that marks true wisdom—impartiality. To “have respect of persons” is to show favoritism, to judge not by truth, but by appearance, status, relationship, or advantage. Scripture is clear that this is “not good.” Wisdom is not only seen in knowledge or speech, but in fairness and integrity when decisions must be made. Leviticus 19:15 commands, “Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.” True judgment is anchored in truth, not influenced by who stands before us.
This reflects the character of God Himself. Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” He does not judge based on outward appearance, wealth, or position, but according to truth and the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” To show partiality is to step out of alignment with God’s nature and to distort justice.
Partiality often arises from fear or gain. A person may favor the powerful to avoid conflict or to secure advantage, or favor the familiar out of personal bias. But Proverbs 28:21 warns, “To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.” Even small incentives can corrupt judgment when the heart is not firmly rooted in righteousness. This shows how easily integrity can be compromised when truth is not the standard.
The New Testament reinforces this principle strongly. James 2:1 says, “have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ… with respect of persons,” and goes on to rebuke favoring the rich over the poor. Such behavior contradicts the gospel itself, which levels all before God. Partiality creates division and injustice, while true wisdom produces fairness and unity.
Practically, this verse calls for self-examination in how we treat others and make decisions. It challenges us to ask whether our judgments are influenced by appearance, influence, or personal preference rather than truth. This applies in leadership, business, relationships, and daily interactions. Even subtle favoritism—who we listen to, who we overlook—reveals what governs our hearts.
It also calls for courage. Judging rightly often means standing against pressure, whether from people or circumstances. Proverbs 29:25 says, “The fear of man bringeth a snare.” When we fear people, we are more likely to bend judgment. But when we fear God, we are anchored in truth and able to act with integrity.
Ultimately, Proverbs 24:23 teaches that wisdom is inseparable from righteousness in judgment. It is not enough to know what is right; we must also apply it without bias. To judge impartially is to reflect the character of God, who sees clearly, judges justly, and shows no favoritism.
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Respect of Persons
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