Faith & Reason Nexus

Teaching respect is a fundamental responsibility for parents, as it shapes a child’s character and influences their relationships with others. Respect is not just a societal expectation but a Biblical principle that guides how we interact with others, including our family, our community, and God.

RESPECT IS A BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE

1. Respect for the Bible
   • The Bible teaches that God’s Word is sacred and should be honored. Parents should teach children to respect the Bible as the ultimate authority for life.
   • Psalm 119:11 – “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
   • 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.”
2. Respect for the Church
   • The Church is the body of Christ, and Christians are called to honor it. Children should be taught to respect the Church, both in terms of its authority and the people within it.
   • Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
   • Hebrews 10:25 – “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another.”
3. Respect for Authority
   • God has established authority structures in society, including parents, teachers, and governmental authorities. Teaching children to respect authority prepares them for success in life and fosters harmony within society.
   • Romans 13:1 – “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.”
   • Ephesians 6:1-3 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
4. Respect for Morality
   • Parents should teach children to respect moral standards, both in how they treat others and in how they live their lives. This includes respecting the value of honesty, integrity, and purity.
   • Romans 12:9 – “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”
   • 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 – “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable.”
5. Respect for School
   • Education is important, and children should be taught to respect their school, their teachers, and the learning process. This prepares them for academic success and helps them develop a lifelong appreciation for learning.
   • Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
   • Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

The Opposite of Respect is Disrespect

Disrespect, on the other hand, is a behavior that undermines relationships, disregards authority, and dishonors what is sacred. Children who are not taught respect can grow up to exhibit selfish, rebellious, and harmful behaviors. It is important for parents to guide their children in showing honor, kindness, and appreciation for the things that matter most—God, family, authority, and moral values. By teaching respect, parents are helping to build a strong foundation for their children’s future interactions with others and their relationship with God.

Conclusion:

Respect is a key Biblical principle that parents should instill in their children. By teaching respect for the Bible, the Church, authority, morality, and school, parents are shaping children who will contribute positively to society and honor God. Respect fosters harmony, growth, and love in relationships and is essential for spiritual and personal development.