Teaching Civility
Today I interview the fascinating Mark DeMoss, president and founder of The DeMoss Group, the leading public relations firm for Christian organizations. DeMoss has represented organizations such as The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Prison Fellowship, and The American Bible Society.
A few years ago, Mark launched The Civility Project, aimed at shaping a more civil public discourse. The idea was to get public leaders to at least agree to be civil with each other, even as they disagree. But after two years, hardly any signed up for the pledge.
I asked Mark if he thought Christian leaders should teach civility. As a pastor, I’ve tried to do this, but I often get pushback from Christians who think being civil equals being a compromiser. Mark disagrees.
Should pastors and church leaders make the teaching of civility a priority?
Yes! There are plenty of Scriptures to support that answer. For example, “In lowliness of mind, let each esteem others better than himself.” Phil. 2:3 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” Col. 4:5 And then, “Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Cor. 16:14 I strongly believe it is never an option for me to claim Jesus Christ as Savior and behave in an uncivil manner with anyone, under any circumstance. Never.