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Respect or Respect of Persons?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Bible instructs us to show proper respect for leaders, the elderly, and others, as seen in Leviticus 19:32, which commands us to rise before the gray-headed and honor the presence of an old man, out of fear for our God. Romans 13:7 further clarifies this by urging us to render to all their due, whether it be taxes, customs, fear, or honor, based not on personal merit but on their position or description, such as being elderly or holding an elected, appointed, or ordained office. This deference is rooted in respect for the God-given authority behind the office, as God is the Giver of all authority according to Romans 13:1. However, formality in addressing those in office is not always required, as seen in the family context where a husband, despite his God-given role as head, is not called Mister by his wife or children due to the familiarity within the family. Within the church, while formal addresses like Mr. and Mrs. have been customary, they may create stilted relationships and risk elitism, which is akin to respect of persons. Instead, sincere and heartfelt respect should be given to those in office within the church for their work's sake, emphasizing genuine warmth and affection over forced formality. God obligates us to give respect, even if it feels forced, but we should strive to earn and offer respect through love, reflecting the true basis of godly respect regardless of a person's station or title.
Knowing God: Formality and Customs (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFormality and decorum (in terms of dress and behavior) are part of godly standards and sanctity. We must always look for the spirit and intent of what God commands.
Honor the King
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughWe find it difficult to maintain a spirit of calmness and refrain from taking sides, let alone to show honor to those God has placed over us.
A Matter of Honor
'Ready Answer' by StaffThe Bible has a great deal to say about honor and whom we should honor. Here are some difficult but necessary lesson in honor.
Submission (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by John ReissThose trained in the home to dishonor parents will resist authority on every front, whether civic authorities, supervisors on the job, or teachers in school.
The Promise in the Fifth Commandment (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasWhen the fifth commandment is neglected, respect for leadership and authority erodes, lowering quality of life, and ultimately, length of life too.
Numbers (Part One): Journey in the Desert
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod never says the Christian life would be easy or that life would always be fair. Difficulties and tests are given to test our hearts and promote humility.
The Sovereignty of God (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe are assured that even though inexplicable things happen in our lives, God is still sovereign. We must develop childlike faith to trust in Him for solutions.
Faith, Government, and the Calendar (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe calculated Hebrew calendar reflects God's faithfulness in providing His children a reliable calendar. Concocting one's own calendar is presumptuous.
The Fear of God (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must have established some relationship with God before we can rightly fear Him. A holy fear is the key to unlocking the treasuries of salvation and wisdom.
Unity (Part 2): God's Pattern of Leadership
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is not the author of confusion, but throughout the scriptures has used a consistent pattern of appointing leaders over His called-out ones.
What's So Bad About Busybodies?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Bible lists busybodies with murderers and robbers. We must learn to operate in our appointed spheres of responsibility and not take the job of another.