Charles Ellicott Commentary James 2:3

"and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool;" — James 2:3 (ASV)

And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing (or, bright apparel). — You look on him, that is, because of his fine appearance, with undue respect and consideration.

And say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place (or, as margin, well); and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool. — The church official or elder in charge of the church finds a stall for the person of substantial presence, while anything suffices for the poor one; but — most considerate offer — he can stand; or, if he prefers it, sit under the great man’s footstool, that is, lower down on the floor beneath. We know Christ’s words for those who formerly loved the chief seats in the synagogues (Matthew 23:6), nor can there be any doubt as to their full application now.

What excuse can be offered for the special pews in churches and chapels, hired and appropriated, furnished luxuriously, and secured by bolt and lock? If men and women in fine clothing still sit in the prominent places, while the poorly clad are crowded into side benches and corners, or are beneficently told to stand and wait until room is found somewhere beneath the daintier feet — how can there be escape from condemnation on the charge that follows? — namely, this.