The Father's Menu

The Father's Menu

Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh

Thursday, August 6, 2020

CHRISTIAN COURTESY 1

There are many Christians today who do not know how to show courtesy because they are not even aware of its importance. If it wasn’t important, the word of God won’t talk about it. Courtesy is basically showing politeness in one’s attitude and behavior towards others.

The words "courtesy" and "courteousness" are derived from the term "court," and are used, in their primitive sense, to describe that refinement of manners which prevails in the palaces of princes and distinguishes the intercourse of the great.

According to T. Binney, “Courtesy unquestionably refers to all that belongs to niceness of manner in relationship with one another; but Christian Courtesy involves along with it the internal principle from which that friendliness should proceed. All true courtesy presupposes the principle of kindness, or goodwill towards men.

A desire to promote complacency in the happiness of others - it has been called "benevolence in trifles" — a care in little things, in words and manner and acts, by minute attention, to guard the feelings and to consult the comfort and happiness of others. It comprehends a readiness to conform to their tastes and habits in matters of indifference, an obvious preference of their accommodation to our own; a solicitude to avoid whatever may give pain, when no principle forbids; and, in short, a constant endeavor to prevent pain and impart pleasure.”

Matthew 7:12 “Therefore, whatever you want others to do for you, do also the same for them—this is the Law and the Prophets.” (HCSB)  see also the book of Titus 3:2 (ERV).

The Greek word “philophron” which translates to the English meaning of the word “courtesy” is only used once in the Bible. It appears in 1 Peter 3:8. It comes from two other Greek words, philos, meaning “friend,” and phren, meaning “understanding,” These two words indicating “understanding a friend” are put together to suggest the idea of courtesy.

1 Thessalonians 5:15 “See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else.” (TLB) Colossians 4:6 “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” (NLT) 

Confession: I declare in the name of Jesus, I am the head and not the tail, I enjoy financial prosperity, I am a courteous individual, I walk in love. Glory to God.

Further Readings:

Acts 28:7;

In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

1 Peter 3:8;

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous

Read through the Bible: Judges 20 & Acts 24