James 2:1

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.

Favoritism is the preferential treatment of one person or group over others, often based on personal relationships or biases. 

James is addressing more than simple favoritism; he is pointing towards the act of being prejudiced.

Prejudice among Jews, Gentiles, and Samaritans was rampant in Jesus’ day. Jews hated Samaritans and considered Gentiles unclean.  Jesus transcended the prejudice by placing particular emphasis on a Gentile man’s faith (Matthew 8:10–11) and the kindness of a Samaritan (Luke 10:30–36).

How do you love an unlovable neighbor? It takes prayer and choosing to be the hands and feet of Jesus.