I know some might say that we need to toughen up and be willing to be criticized more and not be so defensive, the intellectual world we intend to reach is going to treat us this way so we might as well get used to it. I can see where this is partially true, but as axiomatic I believe this proceeds from a false premise. Meekness and humility must coexist in our apologetic endeavors right along with our hard hitting intellectual force. It is inconsistent to be unlike Christ in our attitude and expect people to be persuaded by our discussion to believe in Christ. And meekness is set in opposition to pride and vain ostentation, and also to excessive zeal.
Shame is the beginning of conviction of sin which leads to repentance.
He was known for being extremely hospitable even to his sharpest critics when they would visit. He was known as being very disarming. But after all a consistent presupposing of the Trinity will lead to a humble heart. Some may think that it is OK to be a little combative on the list because iron sharpens iron and the truth is at stake. Well and good.