Is there anybody in the world who deserves no respect at all? A person just so evil, so corrupt, that they no longer have that right?
It's a hard question. I'm reminded of the time immediately after the death of Osama Bin Laden was announced, when the relief and gratitude turned into an almost spiteful, revengeful rejoicing. Despite Bin Laden being a horrible terrorist, it was just too much.
Speaking of the tongue, James said, "Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God." (James 3:9)
All men are made in the similitude of God, therefore all men deserve respect, even if justice and safety dictates the loss of their life.
In fact, not speaking evil of one another is part of the prescription that will help us to avoid the epidemic of lust that plagues the world. It is men seeking after their lusts that often leads to unhappiness, war, adultery, etc. We have to learn to fight it. Here's how James says to do it:
Submit to God.
Resist the devil.
Draw night to God.
Cleanse your hands and purify your hearts.
Endure hardship.
Humble yourselves.
Speak not evil of one another.
Let's do it, friends. The world will be a much better place.
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