Disrespect is a serious issue that the Bible addresses many times. The Bible makes it clear that we are called to honor and respect others, especially those in authority over us. At the same time, the Bible warns against disrespectful attitudes and actions.
Respecting God
First and foremost, the Bible calls us to respect and honor God. We are to fear Him, praise Him, glorify Him, and obey Him (Psalm 86:9-12, Revelation 14:7). Showing disrespect towards God by failing to reverence Him or obey His commands is a grievous sin.
“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain” (Exodus 20:7).
“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor” (1 Peter 2:17).
Respecting Authorities
The Bible also makes it clear we are to respect and submit to earthly authorities that God has placed over us, such as government leaders, employers, parents, and church leaders (Romans 13:1-7, Hebrews 13:17, Ephesians 6:1-3). We may not always agree with them, but we are still called to honor their position of authority with respectful words and actions.
“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work…” (Titus 3:1).
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account” (Hebrews 13:17).
Respecting Others
The Bible commands us to show honor and respect to all people, regardless of age, gender, race, social status, disability, etc. We are to respect others because they are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27, James 3:9). This includes speaking kindly, being considerate of their needs and time, not slandering or insulting them, being patient and compassionate, and loving them as we love ourselves (Matthew 7:12, Ephesians 4:29-32).
“Show respect for all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king” (1 Peter 2:17).
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
Examples of Disrespect
The Bible warns against all attitudes and behaviors that show disrespect. Here are some key examples:
- Pride – Being prideful and arrogant is disrespectful to God and others (Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6).
- Mocking – Treating others with scorn, ridicule, or contempt (Galatians 6:7-8).
- Slander – Spreading false accusations or rumors that harm someone’s reputation (Leviticus 19:16).
- Lying – Being intentionally deceptive and dishonest (Proverbs 12:22).
- Greed – Exploiting others for material gain (1 Corinthians 6:9-10).
- Laziness – Refusing to work and contribute (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).
- Violence – Physically harming others in sinful anger (Proverbs 15:1).
- Disobedience – Intentionally rebelling against rightful authority (Romans 13:2).
All of these attitudes and behaviors show a lack of respect for God and our fellow human beings. They destroy relationships and dishonor Christ.
Why Disrespect is Wrong
The Bible makes it abundantly clear that disrespectful attitudes and actions are sinful and displeasing to God for several key reasons:
- Pride – Disrespect elevates self over God and neighbor (Proverbs 16:5).
- Hate – It tears down others instead of building them up in love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
- Selfishness – It serves your own interests rather than the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4).
- Dishonor – It fails to recognize the God-given dignity and worth of every person (Romans 12:10).
- Destruction – It wrecks relationships, families, churches, and communities (Proverbs 14:1).
- Defiles – Disrespectful speech corrupts the speaker and the hearer (Matthew 15:11).
- Rebellion – Disobeying rightful authority is rebellion against God (Romans 13:2).
In short, disrespect is destructive, dangerous, and deeply rooted in pride and selfishness. It goes entirely against God’s commands to love one another, honor others above yourself, submit to authority, and build up the body of Christ in unity and love.
Overcoming Disrespect
By God’s power and grace, we can overcome disrespectful attitudes and actions in our lives. Here are some biblical keys to doing so:
- Repent, confessing disrespect as sin (1 John 1:9).
- Ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate honor and humility in you (Ephesians 5:18-21).
- Memorize Bible verses about respect to renew your mindset (Psalm 1:1-3).
- Recognize that all people deserve dignity as God’s image-bearers (Genesis 1:27).
- Consider others more important than yourself (Philippians 2:3-4).
- Bridle your tongue from unwholesome speech (James 1:26).
- Speak kindly, even when you have to confront (Proverbs 15:1).
- Treat authorities properly, even if you disagree (Romans 13:1-7).
- Crucify your pride and arrogance daily (Galatians 2:20).
- Pursue peace, patience, and compassion (Colossians 3:12-14).
As we walk in the Spirit, God empowers us to live in greater respect for Him and for all people. This brings glory to Him and blessings to our relationships.
Bible Verses about Respect
Here are some key Bible verses about the importance of respect:
- “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” (1 Peter 2:17)
- “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
- “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
- “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” (Romans 13:1)
- “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” (Ephesians 6:1)
- “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)
- “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.” (Titus 3:1)
- “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account.” (Hebrews 13:17)
The Bible has much to say when it comes to the vital topic of respect. May we as Christians be committed to honoring God, authorities, and all people in our words, attitudes, and actions.