SERIES: The Fruitful Life
TITLE: The Unasked-For Fruit
Scripture: Galatians 5:22, Col 3:12
I. THE PROBLEM WITH GENTLENESS
Somewhat difficult to define. It is often interchanged with (meekness).
“Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth.” Mt.5:5
Twice Jesus described as meek in Mt.11:29 and 21:5
Paul uses it in 2 Cor.10:1
A good way to define this is (power under control). One author put it this way; “Yielded to God we are able to harness the natural powers of our personality. We subject self-gratification to self-denial. Self-exaltation to humility; selfishness to selflessness.”
It is a (humble and gentle) attitude that is patiently submissive, while being free of any desire for revenge or retribution.
II. THE PROOF OF GENTLENESS
Example #1: Turn to Isaiah 40. (p.600). One interesting item: as Isaiah is writing about God’s power and majesty, he is also writing about God’s (tenderness). Further reference: Psalm 18:35
Example #2: 2 Corinthians 10:1. Paul uses (Jesus) as an example.
Example #3: (Treating others) with gentleness
1) Do people find me a safe place?
2) How do I present myself to others?
3) Do I degrade or belittle or gossip about others?
NEXT WEEK: God-designed Walls- Galatians 5:23; Pr.25:28
