The Fruit of the Spirit Includes Meekness (Galatians 5:22-23)
Introduction:
1. The fruit of the Spirit consists of 9 characteristics listed in Galatians 5:22-23. 2. In our lesson we are concentrating on the 8th characteristic: "meekness." 3. Let us begin our study by showing that . . .
Discussion:
I. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH CHRISTIANS TO BE MEEK
A. Ephesians 4:1-3 B. Colossians 3:12-13 C. Titus 3:1-2
II. LET US DEFINE "MEEKNESS"
A. Meekness: a gentle, mild, and patient spirit. 1. Meekness does not imply "weakness." 2. Meekness has been described as "strength under control." 3. A person who is meek does not assert himself or his own selfish interests. 4. Opposite characteristics are vengeance, malice, and wrath that are works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). B. We can learn much about meekness by examining meek Bible characters. 1. Moses a. Moses was meek (Numbers 12:3). b. Later, a lack of meekness got him into trouble (Numbers 20:1-12). c. We learn from Moses that meekness must be demonstrated at all times, especially during stressful situations. 2. Jesus a. Jesus was meek (Matthew 11:29; 21:4-5). b. Later, Jesus cleansed the temple (Matthew 21:12-13). c. We learn from Jesus that meekness does not forbid opposing error. d. Also, meekness does not mean that the truth must be compromised.
III. OCCASIONS WHEN CHRISTIANS ARE TO DEMONSTRATE MEEKNESS
A. In general, a Christian is to demonstrate meekness in his "conversation" [manner of life] (James 3:13). B. To be more specific, we are to demonstrate meekness when: 1. we receive God's Word (James 1:21) 2. we answer questions (1 Peter 3:15) 3. we instruct those who oppose themselves (2 Timothy 2:23-26) 4. we restore those overtaken in a fault (Galatians 6:1).
IV. MANY BLESSINGS ARE PROMISED TO THE MEEK
A. Psalm 22:26; 25:9; 37:11; 147:6; 149:4 B. Matthew 5:5
Conclusion:
1. The world may consider meekness to be a sign of weakness. 2. However, in reality, meekness is a godly characteristic of those who: a. walk and live in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25) b. imitate the example set by Christ.
