Definition and Distinction

Honor and praise are two distinct yet interconnected concepts frequently encountered in the Bible. Honor generally refers to the recognition and respect given to someone due to their position, character, or achievements. It involves an acknowledgment of worth and often includes actions that demonstrate this respect. Praise, on the other hand, is the expression of admiration or approval, often directed towards God, acknowledging His attributes, deeds, and character.

Biblical Context of Honor

In the Bible, honor is a fundamental principle that governs relationships among individuals and between humanity and God. The command to honor one's parents is one of the Ten Commandments: "Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). This command underscores the importance of respect within the family unit, which is foundational to societal stability.

Honor is also due to those in authority. Romans 13:7 instructs believers to "Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due, custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor." This passage highlights the biblical mandate to respect and honor governing authorities as part of God's ordained order.

Furthermore, honor is associated with wisdom and righteousness. Proverbs 3:35 states, "The wise will inherit honor, but fools display dishonor." This suggests that honor is a reward for living a life aligned with God's wisdom and principles.

Biblical Context of Praise

Praise is predominantly directed towards God and is a central theme in the worship practices of the biblical narrative. The Psalms, in particular, are replete with calls to praise God for His mighty works and His enduring faithfulness. Psalm 150:6 declares, "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!" This verse encapsulates the universal call for all creation to acknowledge God's greatness.

Praise is not only a response to God's actions but also an acknowledgment of His inherent nature. Psalm 145:3 proclaims, "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable." Here, praise is an expression of awe at God's infinite and incomprehensible greatness.

In the New Testament, praise continues to be a vital aspect of Christian life. Ephesians 1:6 speaks of believers being predestined "to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One." This indicates that the ultimate purpose of God's redemptive work is to elicit praise from His people.

Interconnection of Honor and Praise

While honor and praise are distinct, they are often intertwined in the biblical narrative. To honor God is to recognize His supreme authority and worth, which naturally leads to praise. Similarly, when individuals are honored for their godly character or deeds, it reflects back to the praise of God, who is the source of all goodness.

The life of Jesus Christ exemplifies the perfect union of honor and praise. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Here, the honor bestowed upon Christ results in universal praise, ultimately glorifying God.

Practical Application

Believers are called to live lives that honor God and bring Him praise. This involves both personal conduct and corporate worship. Colossians 3:17 instructs, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." This verse encourages Christians to ensure that their actions and words reflect honor towards God, resulting in a life of praise.

In summary, honor and praise are integral to the biblical understanding of worship and relationships. They are expressions of reverence and admiration that are due to God and, by extension, to those who reflect His character and authority.