by Timothy W. Burnett
The above scripture hits right to the core of believers� hearts. It drives in a very basic and simple frame of mind related to different individuals. In the KJV Bible the word �men� is printed in italics and was not in the earlier texts. Simply put, we are to honor all. That alone can be a lifetime challenge for every believer. The word �fear� was translated from a word which meant to reverence.
According to different Lexicons utilized in the Crosswalk.com website concordance, the word �honor� came from the Greek word timao and meant to estimate or fix a value to something. It also was used for the value of one�s self, to honor, to have in honor, to revere and to venerate. Word studies of this word can help to shine more light on it.
The word honor is used in Matthew 19:19, �Honor your father and your mother�� Jesus was quoting from the Old Testament in reply to some trick questions from the Pharisees. A review of Jesus� treatment of his mother will show that he did honor her even during the time he hung on the tree. He valued and revered her according to God�s will. It�s interesting to note that God�s word does not say to honor our father and mother because they are or have been treating us good.
The brotherhood refers to the family of God which consists of the born-again saints. The Gospel of John and the Epistles written by John place great emphasis on loving the brethren with the love that originated from God through our Lord Jesus Christ, who was the perfect example of how to show God�s love toward mankind.
Fear God. This does not mean to be afraid of God, but instead to reverence Him first and foremost. It is related to reverent obedience to His will, which is known by His word. In the earlier Greek, the word fear was phobeo. Many may recognize the similar spelling with our English word Phobia. The word phobeo was used in many areas for fear also. But when used in reference to God in heaven, it often meant to reverence. God�s saints and children during the age of the grace of God are never exhorted to be afraid of God, but to reverence Him.
Mary�s husband, Joseph was very troubled about what to do about her after learning about the child in her womb. An angel spoke to him and said, �fear not to take Mary to be his wife� (Matthew 1:20). When Mary and the other women saw the angel at Jesus� tomb, he said, �fear not�� (Matthew 28:5). Upon seeing the angel sent by God, they were exhorted to not be afraid.
To fear and reverence are in a way, closely related. When people are afraid, they are in essence reverencing something other than God, whether short-term or long-term. Instead of giving their reverent obedience to doubt and dismay, they direct it to God in heaven who promises success, good health and perfect directions (see also 3John 2 and Proverbs 3:5-6).
It says to honor the king. Once again, we find a great example for this in Jesus� handling of Pontius Pilate. Keep in mind that during the earlier days of the church, the king often helped the Jewish leaders round up, imprison and even kill many Christians. They definitely knew that honoring the king did not mean to approve of, or like the king.
Isn�t it great how God�s word just cuts right to the core of things. Honor all�and by the way�that includes honor the king!
Home