How can you apply "dignity" in interactions with non-believers? The Call to Dignity Titus 2:7 sets the tone: “In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity”. Paul treats dignity as a visible, recognizable quality. It should color every conversation we have with those who do not share our faith. Why Dignity Matters Before Unbelievers • It upholds God’s reputation. How we carry ourselves paints a picture of the God we serve (Matthew 5:16). • It protects the message. People weigh our tone before they consider our words (Colossians 4:5-6). • It honors every person as an image-bearer of God (Genesis 1:27), even if they reject that truth. Practical Ways to Display Dignity 1. Cultivate steady composure – The fruit of the Spirit includes “self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). – Refuse to match sarcasm for sarcasm; calm, measured responses signal confidence in the gospel. 2. Let respect shape body language – Eye contact, a genuine smile, and listening without interrupting give weight to your words. 3. Keep your motives pure – Ask: Am I trying to win an argument or win a soul? (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). 4. Serve tangibly – Good works authenticate dignity—helping a neighbor move, bringing a meal, volunteering (Titus 2:7). 5. Speak truth with grace – “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). – Avoid exaggeration or half-truths; integrity and dignity travel together. Guarding Speech and Tone • 1 Peter 3:15 urges readiness “with gentleness and respect.” Combine clarity with courtesy. • Proverbs 15:1 reminds us “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Defuse tension before it escalates. • Replace labels (“liberal,” “atheist,” “heathen”) with personal names; dignity resists caricature. Modeling Dignity in Conflict When conversation heats up: – Pause and pray silently; invite the Spirit’s help (James 1:19). – Ask clarifying questions instead of launching rebuttals. – “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome” but “must gently instruct” (2 Timothy 2:24-25). – If misrepresented, correct firmly yet courteously. Truth gains nothing by angry volume. Sustaining Dignity Through the Gospel Our dignity flows from Christ’s. The One who carried the cross “despising its shame” (Hebrews 12:2) now calls us to bear His name with poise. Each respectful encounter becomes a living invitation for non-believers to consider the Savior who dignifies sinners with His redeeming love. |
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