James 2:7

KJV

Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

KJV (with Strong's)

Do {G987} not {G3756} they {G846} blaspheme {G987} that worthy {G2570} name {G3686} by {G1909} the which ye {G5209} are called {G1941}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Aren’t they the ones who insult the good name of Him to whom you belong?

Berean Standard Bible

Are they not the ones who blaspheme the noble name by which you have been called?

American Standard Version

Do not they blaspheme the honorable name by which ye are called?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
James 2:7 poses a poignant rhetorical question that underscores the profound hypocrisy of those within the early Christian community who, by showing partiality to the wealthy and oppressing the poor, effectively blaspheme the sacred name by which they are identified. This verse serves as a climactic indictment, revealing the spiritual inconsistency of honoring those who actively dishonor Christ, and challenging believers to align their actions with the divine character of the One whose name they bear.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** James 2:7 is deeply embedded within James's forceful exhortation against favoritism and partiality, which begins in [James 2:1](/james/2-1 "James 2:1 - Do Not Show Partiality"). The preceding verses ([James 2:1-4](/james/2-1-4 "James 2:1-4 - The Sin of Partiality")) vividly illustrate the scenario of a wealthy, well-dressed person being given preferential treatment over a poor, shabbily dressed one in the assembly. James then highlights the divine reversal of this human prejudice, reminding his readers that God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom ([James 2:5](/james/2-5 "James 2:5 - God's Choice of the Poor")). The immediate verse before our text, [James 2:6](/james/2-6 "James 2:6 - The Rich Oppress You"), directly accuses the rich of oppressing believers, dragging them into court, and exploiting them. Thus, [James 2:7](/james/2-7 "James 2:7 - Blaspheming the Worthy Name") acts as the rhetorical culmination of this argument, exposing the ultimate irony and spiritual offense of showing deference to the very individuals who are hostile to Christ and His followers.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century society, particularly in the Greco-Roman world, was highly stratified. Wealth and social status dictated one's standing, influence, and treatment. Patrons and clients formed a pervasive social structure, where the wealthy offered protection and resources in exchange for loyalty and deference. Early Christian communities, though often composed of a significant number of the poor and marginalized, were not immune to these societal pressures. There was a temptation to curry favor with the rich, perhaps for financial support or social acceptance, even if these wealthy individuals were exploitative or antagonistic towards Christian values. The "courts" mentioned in [James 2:6](/james/2-6 "James 2:6 - The Rich Oppress You") likely refer to local legal proceedings where the poor were often disadvantaged, and the rich could use their influence to oppress others, including Christians. The concept of a "name" in this culture carried immense weight, representing one's reputation, character, and authority. To "blaspheme" a name was not merely to speak ill of it but to actively dishonor or defame the person or entity it represented.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of James. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **genuine faith expressed through righteous actions**, contrasting true faith with a superficial or "dead" faith that lacks practical outworking ([James 2:17](/james/2-17 "James 2:17 - Faith Without Works Is Dead")). The sin of partiality directly violates the **"royal law" of love** ([James 2:8](/james/2-8 "James 2:8 - The Royal Law of Love")), which commands believers to love their neighbor as themselves, a principle that applies universally and without discrimination. Furthermore, the verse highlights the theme of **the honor of Christ's name**, emphasizing that the identity of believers is inextricably linked to Jesus. To act in a way that tolerates or even encourages the dishonor of Christ's name, whether through personal conduct or through deference to His enemies, is a profound spiritual failure. James consistently calls believers to **practical wisdom and ethical living**, demonstrating that their profession of faith must be matched by their conduct in all areas of life, especially in their treatment of the vulnerable.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **blaspheme (Greek, _blasphēméō'_):** To vilify; specifically, to speak impiously. This term encompasses both verbal abuse (slander, reviling) and actions that bring discredit, dishonor, or contempt upon someone or something sacred. In this context, the actions of the rich (oppression, exploitation) are seen as a practical form of blasphemy against the name of Christ, and the partiality of the believers implicitly condones or enables this dishonor.
* **worthy (Greek, _kalós'_):** Properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use). When applied to the "name," it emphasizes the inherent goodness, honor, and sanctity of Christ's character and authority. The name is intrinsically good and honorable, standing in stark contrast to the contemptible actions of those who blaspheme it.
* **name (Greek, _ónoma'_):** A "name" (literally or figuratively), signifying authority or character. In a biblical context, a name often represents the very essence, reputation, and power of the person. Here, "that worthy name" unequivocally refers to the name of Jesus Christ, representing His divine authority, His redemptive work, and the very identity of His followers.
* **called (Greek, _epikaléomai'_):** To entitle; by implication, to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.). To be "called by" a name means to be identified with it, to bear it, and to belong to the one whose name it is. Christians are called by the name of Christ, signifying their adoption into His family, their allegiance to Him, and their new identity as His disciples.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Do not they blaspheme":** This is a powerful rhetorical question, expecting an affirmative answer. James is not asking for information but making an emphatic statement. The "they" refers to the wealthy oppressors described in the preceding verse ([James 2:6](/james/2-6 "James 2:6 - The Rich Oppress You")), who are characterized by their exploitation and legal harassment of believers. Their actions, not just their words, constitute blasphemy.
* **"that worthy name":** This phrase directly refers to the name of Jesus Christ. It is "worthy" because it embodies ultimate goodness, honor, and divine authority. This name is the foundation of Christian identity and hope. The actions of the rich, by oppressing Christ's followers, are an assault on the very character and reputation of Christ Himself.
* **"by the which ye are called?":** This clause highlights the intimate connection between the believers and the name of Christ. They are identified with Jesus; they bear His name. Therefore, when the rich oppress them, they are, in effect, attacking Christ's own people and, by extension, dishonoring Christ's name. The rhetorical question forces the readers to confront the stark inconsistency of showing deference to those who are actively defaming the very name that defines their spiritual identity.

#### Literary Devices
James 2:7 is a masterclass in rhetorical persuasion, primarily employing a **Rhetorical Question**. By asking "Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?", James doesn't seek an answer but rather compels his audience to acknowledge the undeniable truth and profound hypocrisy of their actions. This device is highly effective in challenging assumptions and exposing inconsistencies, forcing the readers to self-reflect and agree with the implied condemnation. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition** by contrasting the "worthy name" of Christ with the blasphemous actions of the oppressors, highlighting the stark moral and spiritual divide. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Irony** at play: the very people whom some believers are favoring are the ones who are actively dishonoring the name that defines these believers. This ironic situation serves to underscore the absurdity and spiritual danger of partiality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
James 2:7 profoundly articulates the theological truth that our treatment of others, particularly the vulnerable, is intrinsically linked to our reverence for God's name and character. To show partiality or to tolerate the oppression of the poor by the rich, especially when those rich are hostile to Christ, is to participate in the dishonoring of the very name by which Christians are identified. This principle extends beyond mere verbal blasphemy to encompass actions that contradict the nature of God, who is just and compassionate towards the marginalized. The "worthy name" of Jesus Christ is not merely a label but represents His divine authority, His redemptive work, and His character, which believers are called to embody. Therefore, any action that undermines justice, love, or compassion among God's people ultimately brings disrepute upon Christ Himself.

* [Proverbs 30:9](/proverbs/30-9 "Proverbs 30:9 - Do Not Blaspheme God's Name")
* [Leviticus 24:16](/leviticus/24-16 "Leviticus 24:16 - Blasphemy of the Name of the Lord")
* [1 Timothy 6:1](/1_timothy/6-1 "1 Timothy 6:1 - So That the Name of God May Not Be Blasphemed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
James 2:7 serves as a timeless and convicting mirror for the church in every age. It challenges us to examine whether our actions, particularly in how we treat those of differing social or economic status, truly honor the name of Jesus by which we are called. In a world still deeply stratified by wealth and power, the temptation to favor the influential or to ignore the plight of the marginalized remains potent. This verse calls us to a radical commitment to Christ's values, where love, justice, and compassion transcend worldly distinctions. Our conduct, individually and corporately, becomes a living testimony to the character of God. If we truly bear the "worthy name" of Christ, then our lives must reflect His worthiness, manifesting His love and justice to all, especially to those whom society often overlooks or exploits.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be showing subtle forms of partiality or deference to worldly status that could inadvertently dishonor Christ's name?**
* **How does my treatment of the poor and marginalized reflect my understanding of the "worthy name" by which I am called?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure my actions consistently align with the character of Christ and bring honor to His name?**
* **How can the church better embody the principle of impartiality and champion justice for the oppressed, thereby upholding the integrity of Christ's name?**

### FAQ

**What does "that worthy name by the which ye are called" specifically refer to?**

Answer: "That worthy name by the which ye are called" unequivocally refers to the name of Jesus Christ. In the ancient world, a name represented the very essence, character, and authority of a person. For believers, being "called by" the name of Jesus signifies their identity as His followers, their belonging to Him, and their new life in Him. It means they are Christians, disciples of Christ, and are identified with His divine authority and saving work. To blaspheme this name, as the verse suggests the oppressors do, is to bring dishonor and contempt upon Christ Himself, either through direct verbal abuse or, more pertinently in this context, through actions of injustice and oppression against His people. This concept is foundational to Christian identity, as seen in passages like [Acts 11:26](/acts/11-26 "Acts 11:26 - Disciples First Called Christians"), where believers were first called "Christians" in Antioch, signifying their allegiance to Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
James 2:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied the "worthy name" and consistently challenged the very partiality and oppression that James condemns. Jesus, though God, "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")), identifying with the poor and marginalized. He did not show favoritism based on wealth or status, but rather ministered to the outcast, the sick, and the sinner, demonstrating the true character of God's impartial love ([Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18-19 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Mission Statement")). The "worthy name" is ultimately the name above all names, given to Jesus because of His obedient sacrifice and resurrection ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - The Exaltation of Christ")), a name that brings salvation to all who call upon it ([Romans 10:13](/romans/10-13 "Romans 10:13 - Call Upon the Name of the Lord")). When believers show partiality or tolerate injustice, they not only contradict the character of the One whose name they bear but also diminish the power and testimony of that "worthy name" in the world. Conversely, living out the royal law of love and championing justice, especially for the vulnerable, is the truest way to honor and magnify the name of Jesus Christ, who is the righteous Judge and the compassionate Savior ([John 5:27](/john/5-27 "John 5:27 - Jesus Given Authority to Judge"); [Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 2:9

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Philippians 2:11

And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Psalms 111:9

He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend [is] his name.

Acts 11:26

And 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.

Revelation 13:5

And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty [and] two months.

Revelation 13:6

And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

1 Timothy 1:13

Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief.