How can we honor those who have "been in the Lord" before us? Honoring Spiritual Forerunners: A Close Look at Romans 16:11 “Greet Herodion, my kinsman. Greet those from the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.” Paul pauses his doctrinal tour de force to send warm greetings. His simple line carries a timeless lesson: believers who have walked with Christ longer than we have deserve honor. Below are practical, Scripture-shaped ways to do that. Recognize Their Faith Publicly • Romans 16 shows Paul naming names—he doesn’t keep appreciation private. • Hebrews 13:7: “Remember your leaders… imitate their faith.” • Acknowledge seasoned saints in church gatherings, newsletters, meals—letting others hear the gratitude. Listen to Their Stories • Psalm 78:4 calls us to “tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD.” • Invite older believers to share testimonies of God’s faithfulness; record them or host small-group interviews. • As you listen, note answered prayers and divine rescues to strengthen everyone’s trust in Scripture’s promises. Imitate Their Godly Patterns • Philippians 3:17: “Join one another in following my example.” • Identify specific habits—early-morning prayer, Scripture memorization, sacrificial giving—and put them into practice. • Pass these habits to the next generation so the baton moves forward. Provide Practical Care • 1 Timothy 5:17–18 honors elders “worthy of double honor,” including material support. • Offer rides, meals, home repairs, or help with technology paperwork; relieve burdens so they can keep serving. • James 1:27 links pure religion with caring for widows; many veteran believers live alone and need family-like help. Guard Their Reputations • Proverbs 22:1 reminds us “a good name is to be chosen above great riches.” • Refrain from gossip; speak up when others misrepresent their motives or past service. • Share their victories more than their weaknesses, as Paul does by highlighting what is “in the Lord.” Continue Their Ministry Work • 2 Timothy 2:2 shows Paul urging Timothy to entrust truth “to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” • Volunteer in areas these saints pioneered—missions, children’s ministry, prayer chain—so their labor bears ongoing fruit. • When they can no longer lead, bring them updates so they rejoice in the harvest. Strengthen Them with Fellowship and Encouragement • 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Encourage one another and build each other up.” • Regular visits, phone calls, handwritten notes, or even texting devotionals remind them they are valued members of Christ’s body, not relics of the past. Celebrate Milestones and Finishing Well • Proverbs 16:31: “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” • Mark spiritual birthdays, anniversaries of baptism, or decades of service. • Use these celebrations to highlight specific Scriptures they have lived out, reinforcing the Word’s reliability. Why It Matters Honoring those “in the Lord” before us magnifies God’s faithfulness across generations, showcases the living power of His Word, and unites the body of Christ in gratitude and purpose. In doing so, we echo Paul’s warm greetings and model the kingdom culture Scripture commands. |
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