Courteous as Knights

The Apostle Paul is known for his ultra-dense and at times cryptic language. He often swings the sword of the Spirit in high spiritual battle, and his blade strokes can be difficult to follow. Even the other apostles didn’t understand everything he said (2 Pet 3:16). But, every once in a while (usually at the end of his letters), Paul can be very down to earth and even downright practical. Consider the following verses:

Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish… Titus 3:1–3

The Greek word behind our English “courtesy” here means, “The quality of not being over-impressed by a sense of one’s importance, gentleness, humility, courtesy, considerateness, meekness.” (BDAG). Christians are to possess and display this spirit to others. The qualities of patience and meekness are commonly confused with weakness and timidity. However, this is a call to great spiritual strength—the kind we can only possess in Christ. Because living this way toward others is not easy. It is the life of true chivalry.

C.S. Lewis summarizes this spirit well: “No warrior scolds. Courteous words or else hard knocks are his only language.” Courtesy is not weakness. It is strength subdued. Bringing out the big guns (openly wielding the authority of our various offices and stations in life) is our last move, and only when forced. On the personal level, we never lash out at our enemies, or those who do not know God. We are patient with them, and kind to them. We address them with respect. Why? Because we were once the very same way. And if Jesus can save us, he can save them too.