Respect

"Those who stood by said, “Would you revile God's high priest?” And Paul said, “I did not know, brothers, that he was the high priest, for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’" -- Acts 23:4-5

We live in a day when people find it quite easy to insult and ridicule leaders as high as our president. Respect for an office is no longer exercised and criticism runs rampant. Disrespect has become a new form of entertainment.

As we read this passage carefully we find Paul in conflict with an affirmed opponent of the Gospel and of the Lord Jesus himself. Still, Paul stepped back and recognized the Biblical command to respect the office of High Priest. Having attained full knowledge of who the speaker was, Paul quickly expressed respect.

Have you shown respect for the offices of leadership in your life my friend? The Lord never asked us if we agree with our leaders; He just commanded us to respect them. Such conduct eventually grows and creates a lifestyle that faithfully honors the Lord by respecting others.