“…to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:2 (ESV)
At the beginning of his letter to Titus, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth, which accords with godliness,” (1:1). Godliness is a consistent devotion to the Lord and His Word. Godliness is also a demonstration of that devotion in one’s relationships with other individuals; believers and unbelievers.
What does godliness look like in everyday life? How is godliness evident in the believer’s life at home, school, work, and relationships? As previously noted, godliness involves being respectful and obedient, when possible, to government (Titus 3:1; Acts 5:27-32).
Godliness also involves our speech. Godly Christians are to speak evil of no one. To speak evil of no one (μηδείς βλασφημέω; medeis blasphemeo) means to “not” speak against someone in such a way as to harm or injure their reputation. It means to not revile and defame another person’s character. This involves our speech about other people and God.
“Paul tells us that believers must “speak evil of no one” (3:2), which does not mean that we never publish the wickedness of others when it is appropriate to do so but rather that we not engage in slander. The Greek word the apostle uses is _blasph_ē_me_ō, which is the same verb used to describe the blasphemy of God. Basically, the apostle is telling us not to misuse the names of other people, whether by spreading falsehoods about them or by maligning their character,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.
Godliness also means to avoid quarreling (ἄμαχος; amachos), which refers to being peaceable and uncontentious. It refers to not seeking conflict. In other words, to not look for a fight.
Godly individuals are to be gentle (ἐπιεικής; epieikes). This is being gracious and yielding when appropriate. When possible, it means to be tolerant of other people.
Finally, godliness means to show perfect courtesy toward all people. This refers to being personally and consistently meek and mild. It means to not be harsh with other people.
“Christians are to exemplify these godly virtues in their dealings with everyone. The admonition applies especially to dealings with unbelievers,” states Dr. John MacArthur.
How may you display these godly virtues today? Pray that the LORD will give you discernment in each relationship you have and with each person you meet. Have a godly day.
Soli deo Gloria!
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