Christian Values — A Biblical Perspective
A value or ethic is a principle or standard about what is important in one’s life. Therefore, Christian values are the principles that a follower of Jesus Christ holds as important—the principles of life that Jesus taught.
Christian values don’t change over time. They are consistent from generation to generation since their foundation is found in God’s Word, the Bible.
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
A List of Christian Values
The values Jesus Christ taught in the New Testament can be summed up in two thoughts—love God and love others. Here is a sampling of values that are presented in the Word of God:
Generosity – This is the core Christian value of being kind and unselfish, especially with our money and time.
"The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor." – Proverbs 22:9
Courage– The value is characterized by boldness and confidence. It’s the opposite of fear.
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." – Joshua 1:9
Love – Love is a fundamental characteristic of who God is and it’s a value that is to describe His children as well.
"We love because he first loved us." – 1 John 4:19
Respect – A Christian value is to be conscious that God has created all people in His image. As a response, we show respect to all.
"Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor." – 1 Peter 2:17
Hope – The value of hope is confident expectation. It’s a firm assurance in God.
"There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off." – Proverbs 23:18
Peace – There are many aspects of this Christian value mentioned in the Bible. It refers to rest and tranquility and ultimately, peace is a gift from God.
"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." – Romans 14:19
Christian Values — Applying the Values
A Christian is someone whose behavior and heart reflects Jesus Christ. That's what it means to be a Christian. And applying Christian values is to be the intention of every follower of Jesus Christ. That’s why Paul says, "Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:9).
As we read God’s Word, we know God better and understand His purpose for us in the world. We learn the values He holds dear and we grow to love those values too. The Holy Spirit works through us to spread God's love through good works, leading others to eternal life through Jesus Christ.
God is very clear in His Word how to apply each of the Christian values He holds dear. One way Christians can tell if they hold to the values God holds dear, is how they treat others. "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves" (Romans 12:9-10).
The Bible says, "Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses" (Proverbs 28:27). Poverty is uncomfortable and sometimes it’s easier to look away. It’s easier to pretend we didn’t see the lack—lack of hope, lack of worth. Just like this verse says, we close our eyes to the oppressed. Oftentimes, we don’t value generosity.
Jesus looked people in need directly in the eyes. He saw them. As their creator, He loved them. He didn’t turn His eyes away from poverty or illness. He stopped and gave people hope. He wasn’t motivated by what people in need could offer Him. He had genuine love for them and wanted to help meet their needs—physical, emotional and spiritual. He acted with compassion.
Christians are called to do the same; we are called to look people in the eye and help meet the needs we see. As Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
Millions of Christians around the world have chosen to show love by sponsoring a child through Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you provide nutritious food, clean water, education opportunities, health care, and more. Your sponsored child will receive hope for their future and learn what it means to be a Christian! If you hold to Christian values and seek first kingdom of God, will you sponsor a child today?
Sponsor a Child Today!
When children find out they've been sponsored, the joy they feel is indescribable. Just knowing that someone across the globe cares means more than you can imagine. Sponsoring a child in need will profoundly change the future for your child, and will change your own life as well.