RESPECT

RESPECT We often hear that God is no respecter of a person. This has been quoted in the church, outside the church towards others in efforts to equalize a person’s status. Usually, to bring someone who is esteemed to the level of someone who is less respected. A devout Centurion named Cornelius needed direction from God. Many times, we need direction from leadership in the church. Peter was deeply influenced by the culture. The Jews were strictly forbidden to associate with the people and the practices of other nations. However, it finally came a time when the other nations would come to worship and eventually to the forefront of Christianity. Cornelius was devout, Cornelius was a giver, and Cornelius was a man of prayer. God did not say He was not a respecter of Persons Peter perceived that statement. Even though I believe God is not a respecter of persons God is a respecter of a clean heart. Peter was rebuked by God (concerning traditional dietary ordinances) in the setting where his perception is revealed of God not being a respecter of person. The Bible is not only literal but biographical and contains thoughts and words of others and at the same time, it is the inspired Word of God. We must endeavor to rightly divide the truth. It’s hard for people to rightly divide truth because people have a worldly perspective. Respect me, love me, Care for me, yet the people who say these things lack the spirituality to see God because the heart is not right. Godliness involves giving and living the Gospel not taking and living to gossip. Many don't want to associate with God and live a life not giving him honor but honoring what they see and their inclinations. This world perspective contrasts the Body of Christ's paradigm of purpose. A paradigm shift must take place to rightly divide the word of truth. The key to Respect is giving yourself selflessly but problems arise when people want respect without giving it. While salvation and the Grace of God is unmerited it is a truth that 'respect has to be earned.' If you try to get respect without earning it you are in danger of getting hurt and harming those involved. BEREA CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST SEASON 10 EPISODE 8 | RECORDED JULY 13, 2022 | RESPECT | PASTOR RE BOSWELL