The Challenge to
Respect Others
Introduction:
Does it seem that the
idea of respect/honor has been forgotten in our society? Christians have been
created to respect others. We’re
to serve the needs of others. See 1 Jhn. 4:7-11; Phil. 2:3-5. When we deny this
basic nature – turn inward and act only toward the fulfillment of our own
desires – the fabric of society begins to tear apart. So what do we do? Learn
to put scriptures in 1 Jhn. 4 & 1 Peter 2 into practice.
I. Respect Defined.
A.
Latin: respicare. Meaning to “regard, look back.”
B.
We often associate a number of words with respect.
1.
Honor; regard; deference; veneration; reverence
II. We must respect God.
A.
We cannot be indifferent to God.
1.
Heb. 12:29 – God is a consuming
fire. He is real!
2.
There is no area of life where God is not
relevant.
3.
Consider 2 Cor. 8:5; Col. 3:17
4.
Isa. 29:13
B.
Jesus rejected those who only wanted a
superficial attachment to God. Lk.
9:57-62
C.
We need a serious, diligent approach to
heaven! 1 Peter 1:13-17.
III. 1 Peter 2:17 – Honor All Men!
A.
Our marriage partner.
1.
Seek the higher good! See
Eph. 5:25, 31, 33, 1 Peter. 3:7
B.
Respect those older than us!
1.
Long been a biblical principle! Lev. 19:32; 1 Tim. 5:1-2
2.
Glory & dignity are attributed to age & wisdom. Pro. 16:31; 20:29
C.
Older need to respect the younger.
1.
Younger ones are human beings with inherent worth.
2.
1 Tim. 4:12; Titus 2:15
III. In practical terms
– How must we respect others?
A.
God expects His people to be respectful! How can we put this into practice?
B.
R ate others as valuable as you are! Mk. 12:29-31 – focus on 12:31!
C.
E xpress the love God has given you! Mt. 18:23-35
D.
S ee the cross!
E.
P rove your beliefs!
F.
E nter into relationships.
G.
C onfess your failures.
H.
T reat others as you wish to be treated!
Conclusion:
A.
What God makes is precious to Him!
1.
Each person, group, and authority – these are to be treated
w/respect!
B.
Do you give others the respect their due? What about God?