Ministry is a sacred calling, and those who have gone before us, pastors, mentors, leaders, have opened doors, provided platforms, and paved the way for us to serve. Respecting those who have invested in our spiritual journey is not just a matter of etiquette; it is a divine principle rooted in humility, integrity, and honor.
As ministers, it is crucial to remember that the platform we stand on is often built upon the sacrifices, prayers, and efforts of others. To misuse, disrespect, or speak negatively about those who have given us the platform is to risk spiritual danger, stealing sheep, damaging the body of Christ, and bringing reproach upon ourselves.
This message is a divine reminder: Respect those who have given you your platform, be cautious with your words, and never attempt to steal the sheep of other ministers as a guest minister or colleague.
1. The Biblical Principle of Respecting Spiritual Leaders
1 Timothy 5:17-19 instructs, “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.” Honor and respect are divine principles that foster unity and spiritual growth.
Romans 13:7 teaches us to “Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.” Respecting leaders who have invested in us honors God and maintains the unity of the Body of Christ.
Jesus honored John the Baptist, acknowledging his prophetic role (John 1:29-34). His humility teaches us to respect those who have gone before us and established the work.
2. The Dangers of Disrespect and Speech That Steals Sheep
Jude 1:8-10 warns against speaking evil of dignitaries and speaking presumptuously. Such speech can lead to division and dishonor God’s servants.
John 10:12-13 describes the hireling who flees when the wolf comes, seeking only personal gain and leaving the sheep vulnerable. When ministers “steal sheep” through division, gossip, or false teachings, they harm the Body of Christ and jeopardize their own spiritual standing.
Proverbs 17:11 says, “An evil man seeketh only rebellion.” Rebellion against spiritual authority is a sin that brings confusion and spiritual harm.
Mark 10:42-45 shows Jesus teaching servant leadership. Misusing influence to manipulate, control, or steal sheep is contrary to Christ’s example and leads to spiritual downfall.
3. Biblical Examples of Respect and the Danger of Stealing Sheep
Despite being anointed king, David refused to harm Saul, the reigning king, respecting God’s anointed (1 Samuel 24:6). He understood that touching God’s anointed was a serious offense to God.
In Acts 15:36-40, Paul initially refused to work with John Mark but later reconciled, demonstrating humility and respect. Recognizing others’ roles fosters unity.
In Acts 20:17-35, Paul emphasizes the importance of shepherding the flock with humility, respecting elders, and guarding against false teachers who seek to steal sheep.
4. The Responsibility of Ministers: Respect, Guard, and Build
Respect is a biblical command. Recognize that your platform is a gift and responsibility, not a right. Honoring those who invested in you reflects humility and spiritual maturity.
Acts 20:28-30 warns ministers to “Take heed…to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.” Be vigilant not to allow divisive words or actions to steal sheep from the fold.
Ephesians 4:29 urges, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” Respectful speech builds the church, not destroys it.
John 10:11-12 describes Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. Ministers must emulate this attitude, serving and protecting the flock, not exploiting or stealing them.
5. Practical Ways to Respect Those Who Gave You Your Platform
Always remember, your platform is a gift. Show gratitude and humility in your words and actions.
Ephesians 4:31-32 encourages us to avoid bitterness and speak kindly. Avoid gossip or negative talk about fellow ministers.
Philippians 2:3-4 teaches us to esteem others higher than ourselves. Working together with humility enhances the kingdom.
Proverbs 20:6 says, “Most men will proclaim everyone his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?” Faithfulness and loyalty honor those who opened doors for you.
Rebellion leads to division and spiritual ruin. 1 Samuel 15:23 states, “Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.” Respect authority and obey divine and earthly leadership.
6. The Consequences of Disrespect and Stealing Sheep
Galatians 6:7 warns, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Disrespecting spiritual leaders and stealing sheep can lead to divine judgment.
Disrespectful conduct can disqualify ministers from leadership (1 Timothy 3:2-7). God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
Ephesians 4:3 urges us to “endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Disrespect and division break this unity.
7. A Call to Humility, Respect, and Faithfulness
Colossians 3:23-24 says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Your service is ultimately to Christ, not to human leaders or followers.
1 Timothy 4:12 urges ministers to be examples of believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Hebrews 13:17 instructs us to obey those who have rule over us and to submit ourselves, for they watch for our souls.
Dear Minister, respect those who have given you your platform. Honor their sacrifices, their spiritual investment, and their leadership. Mind what you say about others, especially those who paved the way for your ministry. Remember, the same person who helped you can later become the one whom you might unwittingly or intentionally criticize, oppose, or even seek to replace, and in doing so, you risk the spiritual harm of stealing the sheep of the body of Christ.
Obey a higher rule, obey God. Respect your leaders, serve with humility, and guard the unity of the church. As you do so, God will honor your faithfulness, and your ministry will flourish under His divine blessing.
Let humility, respect, and integrity be your guiding principles, for in the end, your ministry is about serving Christ and His sheep, not personal gain or pride.
Yours In His Service
C. C. RAYMOND
