1 Corinthians 12:23–24: And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it.
A famous preacher was speaking at a ministers’ meeting, and he took time before and after the meeting to shake hands with the pastors and chat with them. A friend asked him, “Why take time for a group of men you may never see again?” The world-renowned preacher smiled and said, “Well, I may be where I am because of them! Anyway, if I didn’t need them on the way up, I might need them on the way down!” No Christian servant can say to any other servant, “My ministry can get along without you!”
Paul may be referring to the private parts of the body in 1 Corinthians 12:23–24. If so, then to “bestow honor” on them refers to the use of attractive clothing. The more beautiful parts of the body need no special help. 1
Application
- Have you ever considered arriving early to a service and staying late, just to see how the Lord can use you to show honor to others in the Body of Christ?
- Read Titus 3:8. How can this verse become more alive in your life today?
Thought to Share
To give honor to another means your identity in Christ is rather secure. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, teach me how to demonstrate godly honor to others with greater frequency.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.