Introduction:

1. Gentleness/meekness is not a quality the world appreciates.

2. Like the other fruits of the Spirit, gentleness/meekness is countercultural.

3. It is also difficult to consistently practice in such a harsh world.

Discussion:

I. Gentleness Defined

A. It was used in a special sense describing a beast which had been tamed like a once wild horse who has submitted to the bit and bridle (Barclay).

B. Meekness, mildness, affability; that attitude of spirit wherein we accept God’s dealings with us as good and do not dispute or resist (Zodhiates)

II. Gentleness Exemplified

A. Moses was the meekest of the meek (Numbers 12:3).

1. He cared more for God’s name than his own (Exodus 32:7-14).

2. He was a selfless leader (Exodus 32:30-33).

3. He chose to suffer with God’s people over a life of ease and privilege (Hebrews 11:24-27).

B. Jesus is the greatest example of meekness.

1. His gentleness is often displayed (Matthew 9:35-36; 12:15-21; Acts 10:38).

2. This is an attractant to Him (Matthew 11:28-30; 2 Corinthians 10:1).

III. Gentleness Demanded

A. It is part of walking worthy of the gospel call (Ephesians 4:1-2).

B. It is a mark of God’s elect (Colossians 3:12).

C. It is necessary to the reception of the word of God (James 1:21).

D. It is also essential in the delivery of God’s word (2 Timothy 2:24-25; 4:2).

E. In short, it is essential to salvation.

IV. Gentleness Glorified

A. The world confuses meekness with weakness.

B. Moses was a great leader who endured much sorrow. Was he weak?

C. Jesus created the cosmos (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16). Was He weak?

D. God highly praises meekness (1 Peter 3:3-4).

E. He will elevate those who meekly lower themselves (Matthew 5:5; Philippians 2:5-11; James 4:6, 10; 1 Peter 5:5-6).

1. Though it may be difficult, we must allow God’s evaluation of gentleness to outweigh the world’s misevaluation of gentleness.

2. It takes far greater strength and intestinal fortitude to face this harsh world with the grace of God. Are we strong enough to be gentle?