Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Respecting, in a biblical context, refers to the act of showing honor, esteem, and consideration towards God, individuals, and authorities. It is a fundamental principle that underpins Christian ethics and interpersonal relationships. Respect is deeply rooted in the acknowledgment of the inherent worth and dignity bestowed upon all individuals by God. Respecting God The Bible emphasizes the importance of respecting God as the Creator and Sovereign Lord. This respect is demonstrated through reverence, worship, and obedience to His commandments. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Here, "fear" is understood as a profound respect and awe for God, which is foundational to wisdom and understanding. Respecting Parents and Family Respect within the family unit is a key biblical principle. The fifth commandment, found in Exodus 20:12, instructs, "Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." This commandment underscores the importance of respecting parental authority and is reiterated in the New Testament in Ephesians 6:1-3, which encourages children to obey and honor their parents as a righteous act. Respecting Authorities The Bible also teaches respect for governing authorities as they are instituted by God. Romans 13:1-2 states, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage highlights the divine origin of authority and the Christian duty to respect and submit to it. Respecting Others Respect for others is a manifestation of love and is central to Christian conduct. Philippians 2:3-4 advises, "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 call to humility and selflessness is a reflection of Christ's own example and is essential for fostering harmonious relationships. Respecting the Church and Its Leaders Respect within the church community is vital for its unity and growth. Hebrews 13:17 instructs believers, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account. Allow them to do this with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you." This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting church leaders, recognizing their responsibility and accountability before God. Respecting Creation The Bible also implies respect for God's creation. Genesis 1:28 describes humanity's role in stewarding the earth: "God blessed them and said, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that moves on the ground.'" This stewardship involves respecting and caring for the environment as part of God's creation. Conclusion Respecting is a multifaceted biblical principle that encompasses reverence for God, honor for family and authorities, consideration for others, and stewardship of creation. It is a reflection of the love and humility that Christ exemplified and is essential for living a life that honors God and fosters peace and harmony among individuals. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Respect.2. (prep.) With regard or relation to; regarding; concerning; as, respecting his conduct there is but one opinion. Greek 765. asebes -- ungodly, impious ... ceremonial) sense. [765 () is the antonym (opposite) of 4576 ("respecting what is holy").]. Word Origin from alpha (as a neg. prefix ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/765.htm - 7k 1861. epaggellomai -- to proclaim, to promise Library Who the Instructor Is, and Respecting his Instruction. The Opinions of Philosophers Respecting the Substance of the Soul. ... Of the Disagreement Respecting the Celebration of Easter. Respecting the Generation of the Twenty-Four Letters. The Mythology Respecting the Gods; the Dogmas of the Manich??ans ... What are the Affirmative Expressions Respecting God, and what are ... Continuation Respecting Repentance. That He Wrote to Eusebius Respecting Easter, and Respecting Copies ... Continuation Respecting Repentance. Traditions Respecting John. Thesaurus Respecting (4 Occurrences)... n.) of Respect. 2. (prep.) With regard or relation to; regarding; concerning; as, respecting his conduct there is but one opinion. ...Respecting (4 Occurrences). ... /r/respecting.htm - 7k Self-respecting (1 Occurrence) Negotiate (1 Occurrence) Sabbatical (1 Occurrence) Final (16 Occurrences) Discrepancies Year (4027 Occurrences) Astronomy Uncleanness (56 Occurrences) Observe (216 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about respecting your parents? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to have the fear of God? | GotQuestions.org How can I get wisdom from God? | GotQuestions.org Respecting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Respecting (4 Occurrences)Luke 18:2 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Jude 1:16 2 Chronicles 4:7 Subtopics Respecting Those in Leadership Related Terms Self-respecting (1 Occurrence) Circumstances (19 Occurrences) |