The University of Iowa came up with a list of common ways we can show disrespect toward others. They include: insensitive comments, belittling, swearing, rude gestures, verbal abuse, refusing to speak, offensive jokes, harsh criticism, yelling and screaming, slamming doors, bullying, throwing objects, verbal threats, unwanted physical contact, and certainly violent behavior. All of these anti-social behaviors and many more show disrespect for others—all of whom were created in the image of God. We find in Matthew chapter 5 that Jesus weighed in on this issue when he said: “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment. But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.” Apart from focusing on the consequence of our actions, we can see that Jesus calls His followers to respect everyone, even those whose behavior we dislike because it contradicts our Christian values.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
