Special notes: I apologize for inadvertently leaving out generosity, which
we will look at next week. And thanks to David for filling in for me for
two weeks.
We continue our look at verses on the spiritual fruit of Galatians 5:22.
Today we will see verses about gentleness. According to Enhanced Strong's
Lexicon, 1995, gentleness means benignity, kindness.
(1 Cor 4:21 NRSV) "What would you prefer? Am I to come
to you with a stick, or with love in a spirit of gentleness?"
(2 Cor 10:1-2 NRSV) "I myself, Paul, appeal to you by
the meekness and gentleness of Christ--I who am humble when face to face
with you, but bold toward you when I am away!-- 2 I ask that
when I am present I need not show boldness by daring to oppose those who
think we are acting according to human standards."
(Gal 6:1 NRSV) "My friends, if anyone is detected in a
transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one
in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not
tempted."
(Eph 4:1-2 NRSV) "I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord,
beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing
with one another in love,"
(Phil 4:5 NRSV) "Let your gentleness be known to everyone.
The Lord is near."
(1 Tim 6:11 NRSV) "But as for you, man of God, shun all
this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance,
gentleness."
(2 Tim 2:24-25 NRSV) "And the Lord's servant must not
be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, patient,
25 correcting opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps
grant that they will repent and come to know the truth,"
(James 3:13 NRSV) "Who is wise and understanding among
you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born
of wisdom."
(1 Pet 3:15-16 NRSV) "but in your hearts sanctify Christ
as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from
you an accounting for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do
it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when
you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may
be put to shame."