MH page 489

If we have a sense of the long-suffering of God toward us, we shall not be found judging or accusing others. When Christ was living on the earth, how surprised His associates would have been, if, after becoming acquainted with Him, they had heard Him speak one word of accusation, of fault-finding, or of impatience. Let us never forget that those who love Him are to represent Him in character.

Recognizing God's long-suffering patience toward oneself prevents judging or accusing others. The text presents an ethical standard for interpersonal conduct based on perceived divine attributes.

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” “Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” Romans 12:10 ; 1 Peter 3:9 .

Believers are called to practice brotherly love, honor one another, and respond to hostility with blessing rather than retaliation. This paragraph cites scripture to outline ethical duties regarding interpersonal relationships and non-retaliation.

The Lord Jesus demands our acknowledgment of the rights of every man. Men's social rights, and their rights as Christians, are to be taken into consideration. All are to be treated with refinement and delicacy, as the sons and daughters of God.

Believers are instructed to acknowledge the social and Christian rights of all people and treat them with refinement and delicacy. The paragraph teaches moral duties regarding respect and rights toward others based on Christian principles.

Christianity will make a man a gentleman. Christ was courteous, even to His persecutors; and His true followers will manifest the same spirit. Look at Paul when brought before rulers. His speech before Agrippa is an illustration of true courtesy as well as persuasive eloquence. The gospel does not encourage the formal politeness current with the world, but the courtesy that springs from real kindness of heart.

True Christian courtesy arises from genuine kindness of heart rather than worldly formal politeness. This offers guidance on interpersonal behavior and moral motivation.