God expects parents to teach their children the value of respect. This topic is addressed by the New Testament writers often. The Bible provides a list of people that requires our respect, and it even tells us what doing that involves.
Respect for Parents
- Respect must first be taught and learned in the home (Ephesians 6:1-3).
- An equivalent word is “honor.”
- Children show respect for their parents by obeying and submitting to their instruction.
- Those who demonstrate proper respect for their parents are likely to live long and fruitful lives.
Respect for Government
- Government is ordained by God (Romans 13:1-4; Titus 3:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-15). God expects us to submit to it (as long as its laws don’t cause us to compromise our obedience to Christ).
- Respect for the government involves paying taxes (Matthew 22:21). It is also doing things like driving within the speed limit and submitting to teachers and principals’ instructions.
- It also involves praying for those in positions of government (1 Timothy 2:1-3). This is something we must do, not just when our political party is in power!
Respect for All
- The Bible gives explicit instruction for this in 1 Peter 2:17.
- We must respect the shepherds (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).
- We must respect brothers and sisters in Christ (1 Timothy 5:1-3).
- We must respect our peers, classmates, and teammates.
Respect for God
- God deserves honor and respect because He is the Creator and King (1 Peter 2:17; 1 Timothy 1:17).
- We show respect for God by obeying Him (John 14:15).
- We honor Him when we honor the people He has commanded us to honor.
Conclusion:
Are you honoring God by walking in faith and submission?
