Regarding polite conversation, the last thing most folks want to bring up is politics or religion. According to the Oxford dictionary, the definition of polite is having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people. Whereas, the definition of politics is the activities associated with the governance of a country/other area, especially the debate or conflict among individuals/parties having or hoping to achieve power. The Bible says much about respect, consideration, conflict & power.
1 Peter 2:17 says, “Show respect for all people: Love the brothers and sisters of God’s family, respect God, honor the king.” Titus 3:1-7 says, “ 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, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Regarding conflict, “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” (Proverbs 15:18) “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; & they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.” (Romans 13:1-2) May The Living Word inform our thoughts, opinions, attitudes, words & deeds.
