How does respecting others reflect our reverence for God according to Leviticus 25:17?

◄ Respecting others shows God reverence? ►

Leviticus 25:17 at a Glance

“You must not take advantage of one another, but fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.”

Respect and Reverence—Two Commands, One Heart

• God links fair treatment of people with fear of Him.

• Exploiting someone signals practical unbelief; honoring them displays true reverence.

• The verse stands in an economic context (land sales, debts, Jubilee), yet the principle spans every relationship.

Why Fair Treatment Honors God

• Each person reflects God’s image (Genesis 1:27); respect for them is respect for Him.

• God witnesses every interaction (Proverbs 15:3). Acting justly confesses His lordship.

• Trusting God for provision frees us from squeezing profit out of others (Philippians 4:19).

• Obedience proves love (John 14:15). Fair dealing is tangible worship.

Scriptural Echoes

• Proverbs 14:31 — Oppressing the poor shows contempt for their Maker.

• Micah 6:8 — Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.

• Matthew 25:40 — Serving “the least” is serving Christ.

• Ephesians 5:21 — Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

• 1 John 4:20 — You cannot love God while hating a brother.

From Jubilee to Everyday Life

• Business: price honestly, refuse hidden costs.

• Employment: pay wages promptly and fairly (James 5:4).

• Lending: help without predatory interest.

• Speech: no manipulation or verbal abuse.

• Hospitality: welcome strangers and the vulnerable.

Key Takeaways

• How we treat others reveals how we regard God.

• Exploitation is a denial of His sovereignty; fairness exalts it.

• Respecting people becomes a lived declaration: “The LORD is my God.”