Have you ever pondered the idea of “class” and whether it’s something Christians should strive for? Class is often seen as subjective, but at its core, it’s about how we treat others. Let’s dive into what having class means, how we should treat people we perceive as lacking it, and what the Bible says about it all.

Having class isn’t about wealth, status, or sophistication; it’s about how we treat others. A person with class exhibits good behavior, uses proper manners, and shows respect for everyone they encounter. Here are some examples of what having class looks like:

– Polite Etiquette: Saying “please” and “thank you,” holding doors open for others, and using proper table manners.

– Sensitive Comments: Avoiding insensitive or hurtful remarks and choosing words that uplift rather than tear down.

– Respecting Boundaries: Being mindful of personal space and not invading others’ physical boundaries.

– Kindness to All: Treating everyone with respect, regardless of their status or job, such as being polite to wait staff and service workers.

– Appreciation: Showing gratitude for the help and support of others, acknowledging their contributions.

– Self-Control: Managing one’s emotions and behavior, avoiding overindulgence, and maintaining composure in all situations.

– Taking Responsibility: Owning up to mistakes and making amends where necessary.

– Humility: Avoiding pretentious behavior and being genuine and humble.

On the flip side, a lack of class is often characterized by behavior that is disrespectful and inconsiderate. Examples include:

– Poor Etiquette: Ignoring basic manners, being disruptive, and showing poor table manners.

– Insensitive Comment*: Making rude or thoughtless remarks that hurt others.

– Disrespect for Boundaries: Ignoring others’ personal space and physical boundaries.

– Rudeness: Being impolite or dismissive towards people perceived as less important, like wait staff or service workers.

– Swearing: Using foul language, especially in inappropriate settings.

– Pretentiousness: Acting superior or showing off in a way that makes others feel inferior.

– Refusal to Apologize: Not acknowledging when one is wrong and failing to apologize for mistakes.

– Neglecting to Show Appreciation: Taking others’ efforts for granted and not expressing gratitude.

– Publicly Making a Scene: Causing unnecessary drama and drawing negative attention.

– Lack of Self-Control or Overindulgence: Failing to manage one’s impulses and indulging excessively in harmful behaviors.

The Bible provides clear guidance on how we should treat others, regardless of their perceived class. Here are a few key verses:

– Respect and Kindness*: “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31, NIV). This golden rule calls us to treat others with the same respect and kindness we desire.

– Humility: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3, NIV). We are encouraged to act with humility and consider others as more important than ourselves.

– Love for All: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV). Jesus commands us to love others as He loves us, which includes showing respect and kindness to everyone.

Jesus and His disciples exemplified class in their behavior and interactions. Jesus treated everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their social status or background. He dined with tax collectors and sinners, healed the sick, and showed compassion to those who were marginalized. Jesus’ approach was inclusive and loving.

The disciples followed His example, reaching out to people from all walks of life. They spread the message of the Gospel to the highways and byways, inviting everyone to experience God’s love and grace.

As Christians, we are called to bring everyone into the church, even those we might perceive as classless. It’s important to remember that our role is to welcome and love them while Jesus cleanses their hearts and transforms their lives. Here are some practical steps to embrace and accept everyone:

– Give the Best Seat: Just as James 2:1-4 (NIV) warns against showing favoritism, we should offer the best seat in the house to those we might initially judge as less classy. This act of kindness demonstrates God’s love and inclusivity.

– Welcome with Open Arms: Greet everyone warmly and make them feel valued and accepted. A smile, a handshake, or a kind word can make a significant difference.

– Disciple and Mentor: As we welcome new believers, we should be willing to disciple and mentor them, helping them grow in their faith and understand Christian values and behavior.

Embracing people, we perceive as classless can be challenging, especially if we have impressionable children in the church. However, this is a valuable opportunity to teach our children about grace and kindness. Explain to them that everyone is created in God’s image and deserves love and respect. Show them through your actions how to treat others with compassion and dignity.

So, should Christians have class? Absolutely. But it’s not the world’s version of class—it’s God’s version. It’s about showing respect, kindness, and love to everyone, regardless of how they behave or their social status. Remember, we are all works in progress, and God’s grace is sufficient for all of us.

Let’s rise to the challenge of welcoming everyone into our churches and our lives. By doing so, we reflect the heart of Jesus and create an environment where His love can transform lives. Let’s be known for our class—the kind that comes from a heart aligned with God’s will.