A.T. Robertson Commentary James 2:9

"but if ye have respect of persons, ye commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressors." — James 2:9 (ASV)

But if ye have respect of persons (ε δε προσωπολημπτειτε). Condition of first class by contrast with that in verse 8. For this verb (present active indicative), formed from προσωπον λαμβανω, here alone in the N.T., see in 2:1. A direct reference to the partiality there pictured.

Ye commit sin (αμαρτιαν εργαζεσθε). "Ye work a sin." A serious charge, apparently, for what was regarded as a trifling fault. See Mt 7:23, ο εργαζομενο την ανομιαν (ye that work iniquity), an apparent reminiscence of the words of Jesus there .

Being convicted (ελεγχομενο). Present passive participle of ελεγχω, to convict by proof of guilt (John 3:20; 8:9,46; 1 Corinthians 14:24).

As transgressors (ως παραβατα). For this word from παραβαινω, to step across, to transgress, see Ga 2:18; Romans 2:25,27. See this very sin of partiality condemned in Le 19:15; Deuteronomy 1:17; 16:19. To the law and to the testimony.