In Romans 12:10, we are told,
“Out do one another in showing honor.” The NIV translates it
“Honor one another above yourselves”, which is a thought communicated several
other places in the NT. It requires humility. But the word here
really means “to lead before”, to be a leader in honoring. It is almost as Paul is
saying, the only competition that should be among Christians is a
competition of honoring others. Jesus even led us to this spiritual
truth, “but many who are first will be last, and the last first.”
(Mat. 19:30)
I sadly have seen more honor
shown among my martial arts friends (who are not believers) than I see daily in
churches. Why is this the case? Da Vinci had once said, “Who
sows virtue reaps honor.” Maybe this odd painter hit the spiritual nail
on the head? If we truly exhibit the Spiritual virtues (Gal. 5:22-23) then we
might be a person to honor. (Yes I know they’re the fruits of the spirit, but
they line up perfectly with secular listing of virtues to be honored.)
If
you truly know your own sinfulness, you should be the worst sinner you know (in
a manner of speaking). Your intimacy with your own pride and sin should lead
you to not desire Honor, rather to give it to others that you respect in areas in
which you struggle. "As a matter of honor, one man owes
it to another to manifest the truth." –Thomas Aquinas The
Truth that we live out is that the Father has given Grace to us, through Jesus
and is manifested by the gifts of the Spirit. If there are areas that you see,
and have been told you are gifted in, then work within your gifting so that the
truth of the Savior is manifested in your life. Always remember it is through
God’s grace that we can have any kind of Honor to share. A brother who
struggles with an area is in desperate need for grace to be demonstrated, and
in return, you may receive Honor.
What does honor look like in a Biblical Gospel Community?
Honor can be praise for the member who never gets noticed in their respective
area of service. Honor can be praise for years in the faith. Honor can be
comfort for the widow / widower who was faithful till the end in their
marriage. Honor can be being obedient to your spiritual gift. Many other
options come to my head, but remember this. We must honor Him in our Gospel community,
by being faithful to Study the Word, Preach the Word and live the Word.
