Embracing Gentleness in a Violent World
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, beautiful people of Epworth. Today, we continue our exploration of faith and the gift of community, where we find the hope of Jesus Christ. We are wrapping up our series on the Fruit of the Spirit, emphasizing our connection to the vine, which allows us to bear fruit. This morning, we focus on gentleness, a fruit that stands in stark contrast to the pervasive violence in our world.
I shared two personal experiences that opened my eyes to the normalization of violence: one involving my young daughter and another, the tragic loss of my son Elijah. These experiences made me realize how deeply ingrained violence is in our language and culture. Statistics show that violence, especially gun violence, is on the rise, affecting children, women, and the LGBTQ community. This is not God's desire for us. God's desire is gentleness.
Gentleness is often misunderstood as weakness, but it requires immense strength and courage. It calls us to be vulnerable, to drop our weapons, and to see others as children of God. James teaches us that gentleness comes from wisdom, which is cultivated through our relationship with God. This wisdom helps us stay connected to the source of living water, Jesus Christ, and prevents our hearts from becoming brackish.
Prayer is the seed of gentleness. It helps us slow down, breathe, and see others through the eyes of Jesus. Loving our enemies may not change them, but it changes us, helping us to see them as God does. This practice of gentleness can transform our relationships and our world.
I also reflected on the civil rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King's principles of nonviolence, which show that gentleness is a powerful force for justice and reconciliation. As we approach the election season, let us commit to seeing everyone as children of God and engage in conversations with gentleness and respect.
Jesus, through His ultimate act of nonviolence on the cross, showed us the power of absorbing hatred and transforming it into love. As followers of Jesus, let us commit to living lives filled with the fruits of the Spirit, especially gentleness, to show the world that a beloved community is possible and that all are invited to be a part of it. Amen.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Normalization of Violence: Our culture is saturated with violence, from our entertainment to our everyday language. This normalization desensitizes us and makes violence seem acceptable. Recognizing this is the first step towards cultivating a spirit of gentleness. [40:20]
2. Gentleness Requires Strength and Courage: Contrary to popular belief, gentleness is not a sign of weakness but of immense strength and courage. It requires us to be vulnerable and to drop our defenses, which can be incredibly challenging but ultimately transformative. [45:18]
3. Prayer as the Seed of Gentleness: Prayer helps us stay connected to the source of living water, Jesus Christ. It slows us down, helps us breathe, and shifts our perspective to see others as children of God. This practice can transform our hearts and our interactions with others. [50:03]
4. Loving Our Enemies Changes Us: Loving our enemies may not change them, but it changes us. It helps us see them through the eyes of Jesus, recognizing their humanity and their needs. This shift in perspective can lead to more compassionate and gentle interactions. [51:55]
5. The Power of Nonviolence: The principles of nonviolence, as exemplified by Dr. Martin Luther King, show that gentleness can be a powerful force for justice and reconciliation. Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice, not people, and believes that God is on the side of justice. [58:38]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[11:16] - Embracing Community and Hope
[11:51] - Wrapping Up the Series on the Fruit of the Spirit
[39:19] - Personal Experiences with Violence
[42:14] - Statistics on Rising Violence
[44:21] - The Call to Gentleness
[46:36] - Wisdom and Gentleness in James
[50:03] - Staying Connected to the Source
[51:55] - Loving Our Enemies
[55:15] - Vulnerability and Gentleness
[58:38] - Dr. Martin Luther King's Principles of Nonviolence
[01:02:15] - Transforming Relationships Through Gentleness
[01:05:27] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. James 3:17-18 (NIV): "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness."
2. Matthew 5:44 (NIV): "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
3. Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to James 3:17-18, what are the characteristics of wisdom that comes from heaven?
2. How does the sermon describe the normalization of violence in our culture? Provide specific examples mentioned. [41:24]
3. What does the pastor say about the relationship between prayer and gentleness? [50:03]
4. How did Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s principles of nonviolence illustrate the power of gentleness? [58:38]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the pastor believe that gentleness requires strength and courage? How does this contrast with common perceptions of gentleness? [45:18]
2. How does loving our enemies change us, according to the sermon? What does this practice reveal about our own hearts? [51:55]
3. In what ways does staying connected to the "source of living water" (Jesus Christ) help us cultivate gentleness? [50:03]
4. How can the principles of nonviolence, as taught by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., be applied to our daily interactions and conflicts? [58:38]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own language and behavior. Are there ways in which you have normalized violence, even unintentionally? How can you begin to change this? [41:24]
2. Think of a recent situation where you felt anger or frustration towards someone. How might you have responded differently if you had approached the situation with gentleness and prayer? [50:03]
3. Identify a person in your life whom you consider an "enemy" or someone you have a difficult relationship with. How can you practice loving them as Jesus instructs in Matthew 5:44? [51:55]
4. Consider a time when you felt vulnerable. How did others respond to your vulnerability? How can you create a safe space for others to be vulnerable with you? [56:49]
5. As we approach the election season, how can you engage in political conversations with gentleness and respect, seeing everyone as children of God? [53:30]
6. What specific steps can you take to stay connected to the "source of living water" in your daily life? How can this connection help you cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, especially gentleness? [50:03]
7. Reflect on a conflict or disagreement you are currently facing. How can you apply the principles of nonviolence to seek justice and reconciliation without attacking the person involved? [58:38]
Devotional
Day 1: Recognizing the Normalization of Violence
Our culture is saturated with violence, from our entertainment to our everyday language. This normalization desensitizes us and makes violence seem acceptable. Recognizing this is the first step towards cultivating a spirit of gentleness. [40:20]
Violence has become so ingrained in our daily lives that we often fail to notice its pervasive presence. From the movies we watch to the language we use, violence is normalized and even glorified. This desensitization can lead us to accept violence as a natural part of life, rather than something to be challenged and changed. By becoming aware of this normalization, we can begin to cultivate a spirit of gentleness that stands in stark contrast to the violence around us.
Gentleness is not just a passive state but an active choice to reject violence in all its forms. It requires us to be mindful of the ways in which we contribute to a culture of violence and to make conscious efforts to promote peace and understanding. This awareness is the first step in transforming our hearts and our communities, aligning ourselves with God's desire for gentleness and love.
Isaiah 2:4 (ESV): "He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore."
Reflection: In what ways have you become desensitized to violence in your daily life? How can you begin to cultivate a spirit of gentleness in your interactions and choices today?
Day 2: Gentleness Requires Strength and Courage
Contrary to popular belief, gentleness is not a sign of weakness but of immense strength and courage. It requires us to be vulnerable and to drop our defenses, which can be incredibly challenging but ultimately transformative. [45:18]
Gentleness is often misunderstood as a form of weakness, but in reality, it requires a great deal of strength and courage. To be gentle means to be vulnerable, to drop our defenses, and to approach others with an open heart. This can be incredibly challenging, especially in a world that often values power and aggression over compassion and understanding. However, it is through this vulnerability that true transformation occurs.
When we choose gentleness, we are choosing to see others as children of God, deserving of love and respect. This perspective allows us to build deeper, more meaningful relationships and to create a more just and compassionate world. It takes immense strength to resist the urge to respond to violence with violence and to instead choose the path of gentleness and peace.
Proverbs 15:1 (ESV): "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt the urge to respond with anger or aggression. How could you have approached it with gentleness instead? What would that have required of you?
Day 3: Prayer as the Seed of Gentleness
Prayer helps us stay connected to the source of living water, Jesus Christ. It slows us down, helps us breathe, and shifts our perspective to see others as children of God. This practice can transform our hearts and our interactions with others. [50:03]
Prayer is a powerful tool that helps us stay connected to Jesus Christ, the source of living water. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to lose sight of this connection and to become overwhelmed by stress and negativity. Prayer allows us to slow down, take a deep breath, and refocus our hearts and minds on God. This practice can transform our perspective, helping us to see others as children of God and to approach them with gentleness and compassion.
Through prayer, we invite God into our hearts and allow His love and wisdom to guide our actions. This connection to the divine source of gentleness can have a profound impact on our interactions with others, helping us to respond with patience and understanding rather than anger or frustration. By making prayer a regular part of our lives, we can cultivate a spirit of gentleness that reflects the love of Christ.
Colossians 4:2 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."
Reflection: How can you incorporate prayer into your daily routine to help cultivate a spirit of gentleness? What specific prayers or practices might help you stay connected to Jesus Christ throughout the day?
Day 4: Loving Our Enemies Changes Us
Loving our enemies may not change them, but it changes us. It helps us see them through the eyes of Jesus, recognizing their humanity and their needs. This shift in perspective can lead to more compassionate and gentle interactions. [51:55]
Loving our enemies is one of the most challenging commands in the Bible, but it is also one of the most transformative. When we choose to love those who have wronged us, we are not only following the example of Jesus but also allowing ourselves to be changed in the process. This act of love helps us to see our enemies through the eyes of Jesus, recognizing their humanity and their needs. It shifts our perspective from one of anger and resentment to one of compassion and understanding.
This change in perspective can have a profound impact on our interactions with others. By choosing to love our enemies, we open ourselves up to the possibility of reconciliation and healing. We also become more aware of our own need for forgiveness and grace, which can lead to a deeper sense of humility and gratitude. Ultimately, loving our enemies helps us to become more like Christ, reflecting His love and gentleness in all that we do.
Matthew 5:44-45 (ESV): "But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who you consider an enemy or who has wronged you. How can you begin to see them through the eyes of Jesus and extend love and compassion to them today?
Day 5: The Power of Nonviolence
The principles of nonviolence, as exemplified by Dr. Martin Luther King, show that gentleness can be a powerful force for justice and reconciliation. Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice, not people, and believes that God is on the side of justice. [58:38]
Nonviolence is a powerful force for justice and reconciliation, as exemplified by the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The principles of nonviolence teach us that true justice is not about defeating people but about defeating injustice. This approach requires immense strength and courage, as it calls us to respond to violence and hatred with gentleness and love. It is a commitment to seeing everyone as children of God and to working towards a world where justice and peace prevail.
Nonviolence is rooted in the belief that God is on the side of justice and that love is the most powerful force for change. By choosing nonviolence, we align ourselves with God's desire for a just and compassionate world. This approach can transform our relationships and our communities, showing that gentleness is not a sign of weakness but a powerful force for good. As we engage in conversations and actions for justice, let us commit to doing so with gentleness and respect, reflecting the love of Christ in all that we do.
Romans 12:17-18 (ESV): "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all."
Reflection: How can you incorporate the principles of nonviolence into your daily life and interactions? What steps can you take to promote justice and reconciliation with gentleness and love?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "God's desire is not violence. God's desire, believe it or not, is gentleness. And you know, we can look at all of this gentleness and think that that's crazy. But when we are honest with ourselves, we recognize that we also give in to a sense of violence. Maybe not in our words. Maybe we're really careful with our words. But you know, how many times does someone cut you off in traffic and you think, you call them a name, right?" [44:21] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are called to be a different people. We are called to be a people who practice gentleness. And you know, we may think, oh, great, gentleness, you know, we're just going to be pushovers. Oh, no. No. No. But we are more strength and courage than violence does." [45:18] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus tells us that we are to love our enemies. And loving our enemies, I got to tell you, does not change our enemies. We may think, oh, I'm going to love them until they change. Nope, they may not ever change. You know what it changes? Us. It changes our hearts. It helps us to see people in a very different way. We see them, too, as children of God." [51:55] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus who said, I would rather absorb your hatred than retaliate. I mean, ultimately, the cross is the biggest act of non-violence in the world, because God addressed injustice by absorbing it in Jesus. And Jesus transformed that in his risen life that gives power to us." [01:04:52] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "May we allow the Spirit to work in us so that we may be gentle people who show the world a God of grace. May the grace of our Lord Jesus, the love of God, and the sweet communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you. Amen." [01:05:27] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "We see it all around us, and I'll be the first to say I love the Avengers, and I love all of those cool movies, but I have a really hard time these days with violence that is personal. The second thing that happened, of course, as you know, is when my son Elijah was shot and killed. My eyes were closed. They were opened then to our language and how violent our language is." [41:24] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are becoming a more violent nation. And we're getting so used to it that it's hard for us to even pay attention to. We end up having to tune it out because it's like another person got shot. Another person, you know, there was another school shooting or another mass shooting or, you know, another police shooting. There's always violence everywhere. And yet, that is not God's desire." [43:09] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "James says, they can see by the way that you live. Wow. How are we living? Are we living as gentle people who are connected to the spring of life? And how do we stay connected? Well, there was an ancient desert father. They went out into the desert, to kind of escape life that was changing rapidly. This was in the, starting around the 500s, but then well into the Middle Ages. And his name was Abba Nelis, and he said, prayer is the seed of gentleness." [50:03] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Gentleness requires that we be vulnerable. Gentleness requires that we drop our weapons. And that is not an easy thing. I would much rather feel like I'm in control than to feel like I'm unarmed. So to speak. Another violent metaphor, right? But I would rather feel like, you know, that I have some way to protect myself. And so it's really hard to drop your weapons. That's why I said this takes such courage. Gentleness is not for the faint of heart." [55:15] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Nonviolence is a way of life for courageous people. It is active nonviolent resistance to evil. Again, it requires courage. Principle two, nonviolence seeks to win friendship and understanding. So this isn't about, I'm going to show that you're wrong. This is about longing for friendship and understanding. The result of nonviolence is redemption and reconciliation. The purpose is to create a beloved community." [58:38] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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