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The Fruit of the Spirit: "Gentleness"
(Galatians 5:22-23)

​Introduction:

         1. The fruit of the Spirit consists of the 9 special characteristics listed in Galatians 5:22-23.
         2. In our lesson we are concentrating on the 5th characteristic: "gentleness."

Discussion:

I.           LET  US  FIRST  DEFINE  "GENTLENESS"

         A. The word translated "gentleness" is also translated "kindness."
         B. Since these words are used interchangeably, we must understand what both words mean.
             1. Gentleness: possessing a mild disposition
             2. Kindness: possessing a sympathetic nature; possessing a forbearing nature.
             3. Putting these words together, we are talking about having a mild disposition that is
                 sympathetic and forbearing toward others.

II.          THE  BIBLE  TEACHES  CHRISTIANS  TO  BE  GENTLE  AND  KIND

         A. (1 Corinthians 13:4) Charity [love] "is kind."
         B. Ephesians 4:29-32
         C. Colossians 3:8-13
         D. Titus 3:1-2

III.          LET  US  MAKE  SEVERAL  OBSERVATIONS  FROM  THESE  PASSAGES

         A. (Titus 3:1-2) Being gentle:
             1. is associated with meekness
             2. is contrasted with speaking evil of others and brawling.
         B. (Colossians 3:8-13) Kindness:
             1. is associated with mercy, humility, meekness, longsuffering, forbearance, and forgiveness
             2. is contrasted with anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication, and lying.
         C. (Ephesians 4:29-32) Being kind:
             1. is associated with being tenderhearted and forgiving
             2. is contrasted with corrupt communication, bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking,
                 and malice.
         D. Gentleness and kindness can be demonstrated without words; however, gentleness and
              kindness are often mentioned in connection with our words.

IV.         LET  US  CONSIDER  SEVERAL  PASSAGES  THAT  DEAL  WITH  OUR  SPEECH

         A. Speaking, as we are instructed in Colossians 4:6, reflects gentleness and kindness.
         B. A lengthy discussion of the tongue is found in James 3:2-18.
             1. (vs.2) A perfect man bridles his tongue and does not use offensive speech.
             2. (vs.3-8) Even though it is very small, the tongue is very powerful.
                 a. It may be used for good purposes.
                 b. It may also be used for evil purposes.
             3. (vs.9-12) Blessing God and cursing men with the tongue is inconsistent.
             4. (vs.13-18) Earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom are contrasted [gentleness is associated
                 with heavenly wisdom].

Conclusion:

         1. Let us be reminded of the principles revealed in Galatians 6:7-8.
         2. God knows how we are sowing, and we will reap accordingly.
         3. To reap eternal life we must sow to the Spirit.
         4. The degree to which we bear the fruit of the Spirit is a good indication of whether we are
             sowing to the flesh or the Spirit.
         5. Let us strive to be like Jesus who was gentle and kind.
Webmaster Gary L. Wade