People often claim thatrespect is earned rather than given. Nonetheless, is such a claim biblical andright? What nuances establish such a claim? The common understanding is thatChrist respects all (or is at least tolerant of) all opinions, but does he? Ishe? Sensible thought would suggest that people should have a broad respect fora position (e.g., the president or leader of a country, a wise teacher of acourse, etc.). Therefore, to a degree, much respect is not earned but simplygiven in specific positions, especially those of authority.[1]The simplest Christian worldview on given versus earned respect then is this:respect is largely given rather than earned, for believers should show the samerespect Christ shows for all people.

How then is one toassess what more respect he or she should give? To answer such a question, adistinction should be made between those inside and those outside the Christianfaith. Scripture offers several indicators of Christian respect and how God’speople should treat others—both inside and outside the faith.

---

[1] Ifrespect had to be perpetually earned, mutual respect among humans could notexist, for everyone would constantly try to establish and reestablish respect.