Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
None of us want to be wrong. When it seems that others hold a strong opinion which the Lord has not shared with you, respect the person for being firm. Too often we hold opinions lightly, easily tossed about by popular trends. If it is not a matter attached to salvation, what does it matter? Foundational truths about God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, their cause and will towards the reconciliation of man to God are the only things that matter.
There are so many thing for which clear answers are not given by God. Where He is not clear we must trust in God. As to man’s opinions, as long as he does not attach loss of salvation, grace or affection for God and each other, then it is not important enough to be an issue between brothers.
Man’s nature is to discover. Discovery is a great gift which can and should lead to enrichment of life. When its mysteries lead to hard feelings, they need to be put aside for the sake of fellowship. That is God’s will.
Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
What a great topic……the word “respect” is on its way out of our society. Marriages are destroyed because of disrespect, families are broken up, and relationships of all types suffer. Your opening verse is so important…..it is well worth re-emphasizing “let each esteem other BETTER than themselves”. This produces wonderful results….Christ-like results, with the blessing found in Psalms 133:1 “how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”