The concept of order and consideration is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's nature as a God of order and His desire for His people to live in harmony and mutual respect. This theme is evident throughout Scripture, where believers are encouraged to maintain order in their personal lives, communities, and worship, while also considering the needs and well-being of others.

Order in Creation and Worship

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God brings order out of chaos. Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." God's creative acts establish a pattern of order, culminating in the creation of humanity and the establishment of the Sabbath, a day of rest and reflection.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of order in worship. In 1 Corinthians 14:40 , he instructs the Corinthian church, "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." This directive underscores the need for structure and reverence in communal worship, ensuring that services are edifying and respectful to all participants.

Consideration for Others

Consideration for others is a fundamental biblical principle, rooted in the command to love one's neighbor. Leviticus 19:18 instructs, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This command is reiterated by Jesus in the Gospels as the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22:39).

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this theme in Philippians 2:3-4 , where he writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage highlights the call for believers to prioritize the needs and concerns of others, fostering a spirit of unity and selflessness.

Order and Consideration in the Church

The early church faced challenges in maintaining order and consideration among its members. The Jerusalem Council, as recorded in Acts 15, serves as an example of how the early church leaders sought to address disputes and maintain unity. By considering the perspectives and needs of both Jewish and Gentile believers, the council established guidelines that promoted harmony and respect within the diverse body of Christ.

Paul's letters to the churches often address issues of disorder and inconsideration. In 1 Corinthians 11, he admonishes the Corinthian church for their conduct during the Lord's Supper, urging them to wait for one another and partake in a manner worthy of the occasion. This call for order and consideration reflects the broader biblical mandate for believers to live in a way that honors God and respects others.

Practical Application

The call for order and consideration extends beyond the church setting to all areas of life. Believers are encouraged to reflect God's orderly nature in their personal conduct, relationships, and interactions with the world. This includes being considerate of others' feelings, needs, and perspectives, and striving to live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18).

In summary, the biblical call for order and consideration is a reflection of God's character and His desire for His people to live in harmony and mutual respect. By adhering to these principles, believers can foster a community that honors God and exemplifies His love to the world.