In the King James Bible, “esteem” refers to the regard or respect held for someone or something. It often conveys the idea of valuing or considering someone highly, as seen in passages like Philippians 2:3, which encourages believers to esteem others better than themselves.
Scripture
1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but let your heart keep my commandments,
2 for length of days and years of life
and peace they will add to you.
3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 So you will find favor and good success
in the sight of God and man.
Esteem in the King James Bible
The concept of “esteem” in the King James Bible encapsulates a profound principle of humility and mutual respect among individuals within the faith community. Philippians 2:3 emphasizes this idea, urging believers to place a higher regard on others rather than themselves, which reflects the teachings of Christ, who exemplified servitude and selflessness. By esteeming others, Christians fulfill the law of love, as seen in Galatians 5:14, which states that “thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” This reciprocal acknowledgment of value promotes unity and harmony within the body of Christ, allowing individuals to uplift and support one another, thereby manifesting the nature of God’s love in their interactions.
Moreover, esteem involves recognizing the inherent worth imputed to each person by God. In Romans 12:10, believers are instructed to be “kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” This not only reinforces the importance of honoring others but also highlights the relational aspect of the Christian faith, where esteem is not merely a passive admiration but an active choice to recognize and affirm the gifts and contributions of fellow believers. Such a practice nurtures a culture of respect and fosters spiritual growth, illustrating how the proper esteem for others can lead to an environment saturated with grace, accountability, and communal support. Overall, the biblical teaching on esteem encourages an outward-focused love that reflects the character of Christ as followers strive to embody His example in their daily lives.
The theme of esteem is further illuminated throughout the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to acknowledge and honor the contributions of one another within the faith community. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, the Apostle Paul advises the church to “know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” This exhortation illustrates the importance of recognizing the efforts of church leaders and fellow believers, validating their labor of love and the sacrifices made for the community. Such esteem builds a foundation of appreciation and gratitude, essential for fostering a healthy and spiritually vibrant church body.
Additionally, the act of esteeming others extends to the broader Christian obligation to practice forgiveness and reconciliation. In Colossians 3:12-14, believers are urged to clothe themselves with virtues such as compassion, kindness, and humility, which are integral to maintaining esteem in relationships. By actively choosing to forgive grievances and honor each other, Christians reflect the merciful heart of God. This communal esteem allows for the healing of relationships and the cultivation of an atmosphere where individuals feel valued and supported. Ultimately, esteem is not simply about worthiness but about an intentional engagement with others that nurtures love, promotes peace, and draws people closer to the example of Christ, who esteemed each person with profound love and grace.
The Value of Humility
In the context of the King James Bible, esteem often reflects the importance of humility in interpersonal relationships. Esteeming others above oneself emphasizes the need to prioritize the well-being and dignity of others, fostering a spirit of cooperation and love within the community. This principle encourages believers to adopt a humble attitude, recognizing that true greatness lies in serving others rather than seeking personal glory.
The Foundation of Love
Esteem is also closely tied to the concept of love in the biblical narrative. To esteem someone is to hold them in high regard, which is a manifestation of love and respect. This love is not merely an emotion but an active choice to value others, reflecting God’s love for humanity. By esteeming others, believers demonstrate their commitment to living out the commandment to love one another, thereby strengthening the bonds of fellowship within the body of Christ.
The Call to Mutual Respect
Furthermore, the idea of esteem in the Bible underscores the importance of mutual respect among individuals. Esteeming others fosters an environment where people feel valued and appreciated, which is essential for healthy relationships. This mutual respect is foundational for building a community that reflects the character of Christ, where each member is recognized for their unique contributions and worth, leading to a harmonious and supportive atmosphere.
How to Embrace Love and Respect in Christianity
Embracing love and respect in Christianity is a transformative journey that begins with understanding the heart of Christ’s teachings. As you delve into the Scriptures, you’ll find that love is not just an emotion but a commandment—Jesus calls us to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34). This means extending grace and kindness even when it’s challenging, recognizing that every person is made in the image of God. Respect flows naturally from this love; it involves valuing others’ perspectives and treating them with dignity, regardless of differences. To cultivate these virtues, start by practicing active listening and empathy in your daily interactions, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your responses. Remember, love and respect are not merely actions but reflections of your faith, and as you embody these principles, you’ll not only grow closer to God but also inspire those around you to do the same.
Bible References to Esteem in KJV:
Philippians 2:3-4: 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Romans 12:9-10: Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13: 12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
And to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.
1 Peter 2:17-18: 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.
Hebrews 13:7-8: 17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
1 Timothy 5:17-18: 17 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.
18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer deserves his wages.”
James 2:1-4: 1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.
2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in,
3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,”
4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
Ephesians 4:1-3: I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Galatians 6:1-2: 1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Colossians 3:12-14: 12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
1 Corinthians 12:22-25: 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,
23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty,
24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it,
25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.
Matthew 23:11-12: 11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
Luke 14:7-11: 7 Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them,
8 “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him,”
9 and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place.
10 But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you.
11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.
John 13:12-17: 12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you?
13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.