How can we identify and honor those beloved in our church community? Scripture Focus “Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord.” – Romans 16:8 Seeing the Beloved Among Us • “Beloved” points to brothers and sisters whose lives display a warm, consistent devotion to Christ and His body. • They may not always hold titles, yet their faithfulness is unmistakable (cf. Philippians 2:29; 1 Corinthians 16:18). • Look for believers who: – Serve quietly without seeking applause. – Encourage others with Scripture and prayer. – Show hospitality and generosity. – Remain steadfast in trials, modeling perseverance (Hebrews 10:32-34). Why Honoring Matters • Honor recognizes God’s grace at work in His people (Ephesians 2:10). • It strengthens unity: “But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work among you… and esteem them very highly in love” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Christ Himself honors the humble (John 12:26); the church reflects His heart when it does the same. Biblical Patterns of Honor • Romans 16 lists more than two dozen believers—proof that God records and celebrates ordinary faithfulness. • Phoebe is commended (16:1-2), Priscilla and Aquila are called “fellow workers” (16:3-4), and Ampliatus is simply “beloved.” • Hebrews 13:7 urges remembrance of leaders who spoke the word of God; 1 Timothy 5:17 calls for “double honor” to faithful elders. • Each mention teaches that honoring is not reserved for the famous but extended to any who display Christlike character. Practical Ways to Honor People Today • Speak it: Publicly acknowledge faithful saints during gatherings or in written notes. • Share stories: Testify to specific ways their ministry has blessed you. • Support materially: Provide meals, gift cards, or needed resources (Romans 12:13). • Involve them: Invite their counsel in decisions, valuing their spiritual maturity (Proverbs 11:14). • Celebrate milestones: Baptism anniversaries, decades of service, answered prayers. • Protect reputations: Refuse gossip; defend their integrity (Proverbs 17:9). Guarding Against Neglect and Partiality • James 2:1-4 warns against honoring only the prominent or wealthy. • Regularly survey the congregation for overlooked servants: nursery workers, caretakers of facilities, prayer warriors. • Rotate visible roles to spotlight varied gifts (1 Corinthians 12:22-25). The Fruit of a Culture of Honor • Encouraged believers persevere with fresh zeal (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Younger members see tangible models of mature faith to imitate (Philippians 3:17). • The watching world observes Christ-centered love in action, compelling them toward the gospel (John 13:34-35). |
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