What other biblical examples show the importance of honoring God's messengers? Saul’s Instinct to Honor Samuel 1 Samuel 9:7 sets the tone: “If we go,” Saul replied, “what can we give the man? For the bread in our sacks is gone, and there is no gift to bring to the man of God. What do we have?” The future king’s very first recorded concern is to bring an appropriate gift. Scripture immediately links respect for God’s messenger with readiness to receive God’s guidance. Patterns of Honor in the Old Testament • 1 Kings 17:9-16 – A Sidonian widow shares her last meal with Elijah. Her jar of flour “was not exhausted and the jug of oil did not run dry” (v. 16). Honor met by miraculous provision. • 2 Kings 4:8-17 – A wealthy Shunammite builds a rooftop room for Elisha. In return, the previously childless couple receives a son (v. 17). • 1 Kings 18:3-4 – Obadiah risks his life to hide a hundred prophets, supplying them with bread and water. His reverence preserves the prophetic voice during apostasy. • 2 Chronicles 20:20 – “Believe His prophets and you will prosper.” Jehoshaphat links national victory to trusting God’s spokesmen. • Esther 4:14-16 – Though not a prophet, Mordecai is God’s instrument. Esther honors his counsel, risking her life to save the nation. • Proverbs 3:9-10 – “Honor the LORD with your wealth.” In context, tithes supported priests and Levites, God’s teaching servants (cf. Numbers 18:21). The promise: “your barns will be filled with plenty.” Voices from the Prophets • Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news.” A divine valuation of the messenger himself. • Jeremiah 35 – The Rechabites’ unwavering obedience to their father becomes God’s object lesson on honoring authoritative words. Jesus’ Teaching on Receiving Messengers • Matthew 10:40-42 – “He who receives you receives Me… Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward.” Honor given to a messenger equals honor given to Christ. • Luke 10:16 – “Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you rejects Me.” Disrespect cuts people off from divine blessing. Early Church: Living the Principle • Acts 16:14-15 – Lydia opens her home to Paul and Silas; the gospel first takes root in Europe. • Acts 4:34-37 – Believers sell property and lay proceeds at the apostles’ feet, ensuring unhindered ministry. • Philippians 4:14-19 – Paul calls the church’s financial support “a fragrant offering… well-pleasing to God,” assuring them, “My God will supply all your needs.” • Galatians 6:6 – “The one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “Respect those who labor among you… Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.” • Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” Where Honor Leads • Protection – Obadiah’s hidden prophets, Shunemmite’s miraculous child. • Provision – Widow’s flour and oil, Philippians’ needs met. • Guidance and Victory – Saul finds Samuel, Jehoshaphat’s army triumphs. • Participation in God’s Work – Lydia hosts the gospel’s advance, early church funds missions. The thread is unmistakable: when God speaks through His chosen servants, honoring them opens the door to God’s direction, favor, and blessing. Disregard closes that door. Scripture’s consistent witness invites us to imitate Saul’s instinctive respect—and to experience the rewards God delights to give. |
    |