By putting these three scriptures together for Mind Your Manners, Ferguson is pointing out that our good behavior, or manners, is equal to being like God. He is saying to be holy is to have good manners. I agree! One source defines good manners as displaying respect, care and consideration for others. Isn't that what the Golden Rule is all about....do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The Amish are very conscientious about their Christian witness. They do not proselytize, but rather let their lives be their witness. This list of "eleven tests" was on the wall of a museum depicting an Amish home. The 1 Thessalonians passage may not seem to fit, but working hard so that you aren't dependent on others is also "good manners." The Amish excel in this, too, while at the same time being quick to help others in need even outside their own community. They are famous for helping rebuild a neighbor's barn after a fire, coming together in full force to rebuild it. The women and children even do their part by preparing food for the workers and helping where needed.
