A culture of honor creates safe environments. Safe spaces aren’ t about soft words or flattery— they are about accountability. Proverbs 27:6 says,“ Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” The best leaders foster environments where people can speak up without fear of being shamed or shunned.
But beware the shadow side of honor culture:
When |
honor |
becomes |
control: |
People feel they can’ t ask questions. |
When |
honor |
becomes |
idolatry: |
Leaders |
are |
placed |
above |
correction. |
When |
honor |
becomes |
silence: |
Abuse festers in the name of loyalty. |
Messianic Perspective— Honor in the One New Humanity Yeshua’ s work broke down walls between Jew and Gentile, male and female, young and old. Ephesians 2:14 – 16 proclaims that He created us to be a“ One New Man.”
In a Messianic community, honor must extend across every barrier. Mutual respect isn’ t optional— it’ s the heartbeat of the Kingdom. Romans 12:3 – 6 teaches us that honor flows when each member recognizes their unique grace and gift. Unity in diversity isn’ t just a slogan; it’ s the soil in which true honor grows.
1 Corinthians 10:24 commands,“ Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.”
You have the power to influence your congregation’ s culture— either one that promotes fear and favoritism, or faithfilled honor. Will you contribute to a community where people feel valued, safe, and empowered to grow? Let’ s honor up, down, and all around. Let’ s reflect the heart of our King.
“ Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God.”( 1 Peter 2:17)“ Let the greatest among you become the servant.”( Luke 22:26)
Here are some questions that can help you to go deeper:
Where have we seen“ honor” misused in spiritual environments? How do we create space for truth while maintaining mutual respect? What’ s the difference between confronting in love and dishonoring leadership? How can leaders model humility yet still walk in God-given authority? How do we show honor to those we disagree with?
Benjamin Juster Editor in Chief