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American Manners?
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Manners, as rules agreed upon within a family or culture, are essential to maintain civility and progress. They are often seen as social constraints, yet they serve a vital purpose in preventing chaos. God Himself is the ultimate setter of manners, establishing standards for behavior to ensure order and respect, especially in His presence. Manners are defined as the way a thing is done, encompassing social behavior and polite, well-bred conduct in public. The origin of manners varies, sometimes stemming from prominent public figures whose styles or behaviors are emulated, often as fads that can become customary within certain groups. Entertainers and athletes also influence manners through emulation, as people adopt their traits or symbols. Most manners are learned in childhood within the family, absorbed during formative years, and intended by God to be set in the home with the hope that they are good manners. As individuals enter the broader world, they refine their manners, recognizing their importance in gaining acceptance or rejection by desired groups or companies. Manners directly influence control over one's life, being necessary to maintain civility, which is increasingly disappearing as people argue or resort to violence over minor issues. In recent times, new manners, often termed political correctness, have been pushed by various groups, breaking traditional boundaries and sometimes conflicting with God's standards, leading to less peace. In former generations, manners played a significant role in restraining behavior through a more rigid code of correctness. Now, with less rigid rules, many feel free to be offensive, justifying disrespect as honesty, viewing respect as hypocritical. Such attitudes expose proud contempt, whereas restraint through manners allows tempers to cool and disputes to be settled without violence.
Courtesy
'Ready Answer' by Mike FordThese days, everyone demands respect but few are willing to grant it. It is a rare event when someone gives up his seat or when a child shows deference.
Courtesy
Sermonette by Mike FordGod's word has much to say about politeness and rudeness. A Christian who is taught to put others first will have little difficulty being courteous.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGood manners are not just an accomplishment, but a duty that everyone must practice in order for society to move smoothly.
Displaying a Good Conscience: Politeness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsTrue politeness is not mere social formality but a sacred expression of Christian virtue. Genuine courtesy flows from love, humility, patience, and integrity.
Recovering Civility
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must ask ourselves if we have allowed fleshly works to creep into our lives. A little civility could go a long way in restoring unity among God's people.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 3)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsParents are obligated to teach God's laws to their children. According to Emily Post, good manners are to the family what good morals are to society.
Displaying Gentle and Patient Conduct
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod's people must follow the spirit of the law regarding the treatment of others, being humble, sincere, and gentle, esteeming others before themselves.
Displaying Virtuous Character
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSelf-control has both an inward and outward dimension, the latter concerned with human relationships, manners, and reflecting God's orderly mindset.
Civility and Courtesy
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSocietal incivility, discourtesy, and in-your-face attitudes (works of the flesh) have manifested themselves in the church of God, but contradict agape.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 1)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsOur manners express our personality, especially as they portray humility, courtesy, or gentleness, and are improved as we make use of God's Spirit.
Have You Become an Example to All Who Believe?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhether we are called to welcome others, speak truthfully, keep commitments, or guard our own speech, credibility flows from consistent daily actions.
Questioning God
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityBiblical figures such as Miriam, Job, and Zechariah illustrate the dangers of questioning of God's sovereignty or authority.
Profanity (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's blood makes us holy; we are a new creation, having an intimate relationship with God. We need to change our behavior to reflect this new status.