I. Introduction
- The concepts of honor and shame may not be easily understood or fit one's values.
- Goal: Be aware of Honor/Shame.
- The lesson will explore how Honor/Shame contrasts with Innocence/Guilt,
- Honor is essential to God. God values honor and expects it to be pursued.
II. Understanding Honor and Shame
- Honor/Shame is about reputation and community connection, defined by others, and focused on "Us, Others, Community".
- Honor is connected to a good reputation and glory, while shame is connected to a bad reputation and bad behavior.
- Proverbs 22:1 states that a good name is to be chosen over great wealth.
III. Implementing Honor
- Pursue honor from God. Romans 2:6-8 speaks of seeking glory, honor, and immortality.
- Promote and protect the honor of others. Ruth 3 illustrates protecting someone's reputation.
- Honor God and His Community. Romans 2:24 notes that the name of God can be blasphemed because of our actions. 1 Corinthians 6 addresses resolving disputes within the community to avoid shame.
- 1 Peter 2:17 states to honor everyone.
IV. Discussion & Application
- How can I implement honor in my life?
- Will this bring honor to God?
- Does this bring honor to God’s people?
- Interpret 1 Timothy 2:9 and Ephesians 5:3 considering the community.
- Who is influencing your perception of honor/shame?
- Is our community rightly encouraging honor?
- How are we protecting the reputation of the community and those within it?
- Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:
V. Scripture References
Proverbs 22:1, Proverbs 10:23, 1 Timothy 3:7, Genesis 2:25, Genesis 3:10-11, Genesis 3:21, Genesis 1:26, Romans 2:6-8, Matthew 6:2, Ruth 3:14, 1 Peter 2:17, Romans 2:24, 1 Corinthians 6:1-5, 1 Corinthians 6:20, 1 Timothy 2::9, Ephesians 5:3
VI. Additional Scriptures
1. Romans 12:10 - "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."
2. Genesis 1:27 - "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
3. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 - "It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God."
