Who do you think you are, anyway?

A broad streak of independence runs through American culture, doesn’t it? We value our freedom.  We like to think that anyone who works hard enough should be able to succeed, regardless of his or her background. “Rags to riches” stories are part of who we are.  We do not have a titled aristocracy and do not want a king.  Criticism of those who are in positions of authority comes readily to us whether we are speaking of the President or local police. Since the colonial times freedom and independence have been foundations of America.  But, what happened to respect and honor?

There was a time we realized that there was a difference between the person and the position. Even if we felt the person was incompetent or a fool, we gave respect to his position. Honor provided a basis for social order and kept our independence from devolving into anarchy.   

From where I stand that understanding is lost to many of us today. Ask any person who tries to lead – pastor, local official, coach, police officer, teacher  – if the work is more difficult and the answer will almost certainly be an emphatic “yes!” An exaggerated sense of Self is tearing our society apart.  Given direction we are prone to say, “who do you think you are, anyway?”

Honor is taught throughout the Scripture.  Christians need to practice it and teach it. Honor starts at home. The fifth commandment says “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." (Exodus 20:12, NIV) The command is repeated for the Church. "Children, do what your parents tell you. This is only right. “Honor your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise attached to it, namely, “so you will live well and have a long life.”  (Ephesians 6:1-3, The Message)  

Honor is to be a part of the structure of God’s family, too. "Respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other." (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, NIV)  "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching." (1 Timothy 5:17-18, NIV)  "Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit." (Hebrews 13:17, NLT)

Christians are repeatedly instructed to be good citizens, too. Paul’s inspired words challenge our libertarian ideals, but they are truth that speaks to us, not as a suggestion, but as a command. "Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. … The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. … So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do." (Romans 13:1-6, NLT)

Parents, Pastors, and Politicians are not always honorable people! Can we use that an excuse to avoid respectful obedience? Not according to the Word. Sometimes it is the office not the person that we honor and we, as God’s holy people, do this for the Lord’s sake. One does not need to be a social scientist to observe the breakdown in American society and to understand that we are headed for very difficult times unless we recover basic civility and respect. The Christian church can and should take the lead to model what God in His wisdom teaches.

Are you a Christian who holds authority in contempt? 
Are you failing to understand and apply the Word in this area of your life, blinded to God’s truth by cultural values?

Pray for wisdom to understand the importance of honor.

Pray for an attitude of willing cooperation with those entrusted with authority.

Got issues with the way that authority is being exercised?  Here is what God says – “Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.” The Message  1 Timothy 2:1-3

Think about it!