Gentle Christians

"Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt" (Psalm 123:3).

Peter: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander."

Paul: "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." And, "As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

And Paul yet again: "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

When I teach persuasive writing, I tell students that if they truly want to change someone's mind, they need to a) establish common ground with him, b) give him a dignified way out of his position, and c) be the sort of person whose side he'd like to be on.

Thinking Christian's Tom Gilson ably fills these criteria. He doesn't run from confrontations, and he always speaks the truth clearly and unapologetically--but he does so with courtesy and respect. On the rare occasions when he falls short of perfect courtesy, he apologizes for it. Tom writes, in short, like a gentleman and a Christian should.

Take a bow, Tom. Would that there were more like you.