Embracing Gentleness: Strength Under Control in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Welcome to One Church at Home. Today, we continue our study of the book of Galatians, focusing on the fruits of the Spirit. These virtues define us as Christians and guide us to love God and our neighbors. Paul emphasizes that if we do not love, we do not know God, for God is love. Our purpose is to love one another, and this is achieved by walking by the Spirit. Today, we will discuss the final fruit of the Spirit: gentleness.
Gentleness is often misunderstood as weakness. However, the Greek word "protase" used by Paul combines strength and meekness, denoting strength under control. It is about wielding our power and authority with humility and submission to God's will. This quality is essential for representing Jesus in our daily lives, whether at work, school, or home.
As disciples of Jesus, our goal is to become more like Him. This involves a lifelong process of discipleship, where we follow Jesus to emulate His character. Our calling is to represent Jesus to others, and this requires us to live out the fruits of the Spirit, especially gentleness. Jesus exemplified gentleness in His interactions, even in moments of conflict.
For instance, after His resurrection, Jesus met His disciples on the shore of Galilee. Despite Peter's denial of Him three times, Jesus gently restored Peter by asking him three times if he loved Him and instructing him to feed His sheep. This act of gentleness and restoration highlights the importance of treating others with love and kindness, even when they have wronged us.
In our daily lives, we must exercise gentleness in our interactions. At work, instead of losing our cool when someone makes a mistake, we should guide them humbly and lovingly. In our families, we should approach conflicts with a posture of humility, elevating others and showing them that they matter. Winning an argument is not as important as loving others and representing Jesus.
Our lives are short compared to eternity, and our success, money, or power do not matter if we are unloving and unkind. We are called to love and serve others with dignity, treating them as we would like to be treated. This means exercising our power and authority with gentleness and using our tongues to speak life and healing, not to tear others down.
In conclusion, our purpose is to be witnesses of Jesus in all that we do and say. This requires us to bear spiritual fruits, especially gentleness. By doing so, we become usable by God and can produce a crop that reflects His love and light to those around us. Let us commit to loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to loving our neighbors as ourselves.
### Key Takeaways
1. Understanding Gentleness: Gentleness is not weakness but strength under control. The Greek word "protase" combines strength and meekness, emphasizing the importance of wielding our power and authority with humility and submission to God's will. This quality is essential for representing Jesus in our daily lives. [10:00]
2. Discipleship and Gentleness: As disciples of Jesus, our goal is to become more like Him. This involves a lifelong process of following Jesus to emulate His character. Our calling is to represent Jesus to others, and this requires us to live out the fruits of the Spirit, especially gentleness. [13:21]
3. Jesus' Example of Gentleness: Jesus exemplified gentleness in His interactions, even in moments of conflict. After His resurrection, He gently restored Peter, who had denied Him three times, by asking him if he loved Him and instructing him to feed His sheep. This act of gentleness and restoration highlights the importance of treating others with love and kindness, even when they have wronged us. [18:56]
4. Gentleness in Daily Life: In our daily lives, we must exercise gentleness in our interactions. At work, instead of losing our cool when someone makes a mistake, we should guide them humbly and lovingly. In our families, we should approach conflicts with a posture of humility, elevating others and showing them that they matter. [23:09]
5. Eternal Perspective on Gentleness: Our lives are short compared to eternity, and our success, money, or power do not matter if we are unloving and unkind. We are called to love and serve others with dignity, treating them as we would like to be treated. This means exercising our power and authority with gentleness and using our tongues to speak life and healing, not to tear others down. [26:05]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[08:35] - Purpose of Loving Others
[10:00] - Understanding Gentleness
[13:21] - Discipleship and Gentleness
[16:09] - Jesus' Example of Gentleness
[18:56] - Restoring Peter
[21:52] - Power of the Tongue
[23:09] - Gentleness in Daily Life
[26:05] - Eternal Perspective on Gentleness
[28:56] - Bearing Spiritual Fruits
[30:20] - Conflict and Gentleness
[31:45] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 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."
2. John 21:15-17 (NIV) - "When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?' 'Yes, Lord,' he said, 'you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.' Again Jesus said, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' He answered, 'Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Take care of my sheep.' The third time he said to him, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, 'Do you love me?' He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
3. Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) - "The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does the Greek word "protase" mean, and how does it redefine our understanding of gentleness? [10:00]
2. How did Jesus demonstrate gentleness in His interaction with Peter after the resurrection? [18:56]
3. According to Proverbs 12:18, what are the contrasting effects of reckless words versus wise words?
4. What is the significance of the fruits of the Spirit in the life of a Christian, as described in Galatians 5:22-23?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of "strength under control" challenge the common cultural perception of gentleness? [10:00]
2. Why is it important for disciples of Jesus to embody gentleness in their daily interactions? [13:21]
3. In what ways does Jesus' restoration of Peter serve as a model for how we should treat others who have wronged us? [18:56]
4. How can the power of the tongue, as described in Proverbs 12:18, impact our relationships and witness as Christians? [21:52]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you had the opportunity to exercise gentleness but chose a different approach. How could you handle it differently next time? [23:09]
2. Think of a person in your life who has wronged you. How can you show them gentleness and restoration, similar to how Jesus restored Peter? [18:56]
3. Identify a specific area in your work or family life where you struggle with using your tongue wisely. What steps can you take to bring healing rather than harm in your words? [21:52]
4. How can you cultivate the fruit of gentleness in your daily walk with Christ? What practical steps can you take this week to demonstrate strength under control? [10:00]
5. Consider the eternal perspective on gentleness discussed in the sermon. How does this perspective influence your priorities and actions in your daily life? [26:05]
6. In moments of conflict, what strategies can you use to approach the situation with humility and gentleness rather than seeking to win the argument? [24:39]
7. How can you be a witness of Jesus' gentleness in your community, especially in interactions with those who may not share your faith? [28:56]
Devotional
Day 1: Gentleness as Strength Under Control
Gentleness is often misunderstood as weakness, but it is actually strength under control. The Greek word "protase" used by Paul combines strength and meekness, emphasizing the importance of wielding our power and authority with humility and submission to God's will. This quality is essential for representing Jesus in our daily lives. Gentleness means having the power to assert oneself but choosing to be kind and humble instead. It is about using our strength to serve others and to reflect God's love.
In our interactions, whether at work, school, or home, we are called to exercise gentleness. This means responding to mistakes with patience and understanding, rather than anger or frustration. It involves guiding others humbly and lovingly, showing them that they matter. By embodying gentleness, we can create an environment where people feel valued and respected, which ultimately reflects the character of Jesus. [10:00]
Galatians 6:1 (ESV): "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you were tempted to respond harshly. How could you have exercised gentleness instead? What steps can you take to respond with gentleness in similar situations in the future?
Day 2: Discipleship and Gentleness
As disciples of Jesus, our goal is to become more like Him. This involves a lifelong process of following Jesus to emulate His character. Our calling is to represent Jesus to others, and this requires us to live out the fruits of the Spirit, especially gentleness. Discipleship is not just about learning; it is about transformation. It is about allowing the Holy Spirit to shape us into the image of Christ.
Gentleness is a key aspect of this transformation. It requires us to submit our will to God's will and to use our strength to serve others. By living out gentleness, we demonstrate the love and humility of Jesus to those around us. This can have a profound impact on our relationships and can draw others closer to God. [13:21]
Colossians 3:12 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle to be gentle? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to help you grow in gentleness and better reflect the character of Jesus?
Day 3: Jesus' Example of Gentleness
Jesus exemplified gentleness in His interactions, even in moments of conflict. After His resurrection, He gently restored Peter, who had denied Him three times, by asking him if he loved Him and instructing him to feed His sheep. This act of gentleness and restoration highlights the importance of treating others with love and kindness, even when they have wronged us.
Jesus' example teaches us that gentleness is not about avoiding conflict but about handling it with grace and love. It is about seeking restoration and reconciliation rather than retaliation. By following Jesus' example, we can build stronger, more loving relationships and create a community that reflects the love of Christ. [18:56]
John 21:15-17 (ESV): "When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?' He said to him, 'Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.' He said to him, 'Feed my lambs.'"
Reflection: Think of a relationship in your life where there has been conflict or hurt. How can you follow Jesus' example of gentleness to seek restoration and reconciliation in that relationship?
Day 4: Gentleness in Daily Life
In our daily lives, we must exercise gentleness in our interactions. At work, instead of losing our cool when someone makes a mistake, we should guide them humbly and lovingly. In our families, we should approach conflicts with a posture of humility, elevating others and showing them that they matter. Winning an argument is not as important as loving others and representing Jesus.
Gentleness in daily life means choosing to respond with kindness and patience, even when it is difficult. It means valuing people over being right and seeking to build others up rather than tear them down. By practicing gentleness, we can create a positive and loving environment that reflects the heart of God. [23:09]
Ephesians 4:2 (ESV): "With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent conflict or disagreement you had. How could you have approached it with more gentleness? What practical steps can you take to respond with gentleness in future conflicts?
Day 5: Eternal Perspective on Gentleness
Our lives are short compared to eternity, and our success, money, or power do not matter if we are unloving and unkind. We are called to love and serve others with dignity, treating them as we would like to be treated. This means exercising our power and authority with gentleness and using our tongues to speak life and healing, not to tear others down.
Having an eternal perspective helps us to prioritize what truly matters. It reminds us that our actions and attitudes have eternal significance. By focusing on loving and serving others with gentleness, we can make a lasting impact for the kingdom of God. [26:05]
1 Peter 3:8-9 (ESV): "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing."
Reflection: How does having an eternal perspective change the way you view your daily interactions and priorities? What steps can you take to ensure that you are living out gentleness and love in a way that reflects the eternal significance of your actions?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You and I, we are on the mission field every single day of our lives. You don't need to go to Rwanda or El Salvador. You don't need to go to Newark to be a missionary. All you need to do to be a missionary for Jesus is go to work tomorrow, go to school. That's it. You just got to live your life, and you are a missionary. You just need to go to work, go to school, engage with other people. You need to represent the character of Jesus to the people in your life by living out the character of Jesus in your relationships." [28:56]
2. "We weren't created or called to win, right? That's not what this life is about. We weren't created to win. We weren't created to win. That's not what this life is all about. That's not why we're here. That's not what our purpose is. We're not called to win. You are called to love and serve others with dignity, treating them as ourselves, right? With humility, elevating them up to the position of where we feel like we are at." [26:05]
3. "Our lives on this earth, guys, they are so short. With respect to all of eternity, for all of eternity, that's still to happen. Our lives, your life, my life, our lives are so short on this earth relative to eternity. So, does it really matter how much money you make, how much success that you have, how high you've worked your way up the corporate ladder? Does it even matter how much money you retire with, or die with, right? Does it matter how much you make, if it meant that you were unloving and kind to get it, right?" [27:34]
4. "You are to leverage gentleness in your life as a gift from God himself. You are to yield all of that to God Almighty. You are to leverage all of that as a gift from God and yield it to him with humility and submission to his perfect will over your life. Like that's the point. That's what's wrapped up in this word protase, right? It's not gentleness as in you are weak. It's you are strong, but you are gentle with it and how you treat and how you approach others." [11:36]
5. "We are to love God and love our neighbors, to love God and to love people, right? To love God and to love others, right? We are to serve one another humbly in love. He says this right earlier in the chapter. And remember when John says, we've talked about this before, he says, whoever does not love does not know God because God is love. Translation, if you aren't loving God, you're not loving God. If you aren't loving God, you're not loving others." [08:35]
### Quotes for Members
1. "How we engage others is what we do. So the tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. What matters most? Are we lovingly strong or are we recklessly weak? Are we patient and kind as we deal with others or are we combative with others? Are we tearing them down as we have conflict with each other? Here's the thing, conflict, you know this, I know this, conflict is going to happen. We are humans, we are imperfect, and we're dealing with other humans who are also, as it turns out, we're not perfect." [21:52](
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2. "Are you willing to take a patient approach? Are you willing to gently, even lovingly, guide your employee, guide your coworker, guide the other person in your office toward the solution that you want, even as you correct them? Are you willing to engage with them in a loving, healthy matter, right? To engage them in that way, even when there's conflict, even when you need them to change, are you willing to engage them? In a loving, kind, gentle manner?" [23:09](
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3. "When you go to work, instead of losing your cool, when somebody lets you down, somebody makes a mistake. How can you reshape your response to come with them humbly and lovingly, to guide them toward correction with a tongue that gives life to them the way that Jesus did with Peter and the way that he does with you? What can that look like in your work life as you go back to work? What about in your families, right? With your spouse, with your best friend, or with a family member? When you get into a fight, and you have some sort of disagreement, some sort of conflict, how can you reshape your posture with them to humbly come before them, to elevate them, even in the midst of conflict, to elevate them, to show them that they matter?" [30:20](
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4. "Living a life of gentleness is actually imperative to living out our calling to represent Jesus, because it's really core to who Jesus is. Jesus is gentle with us. Jesus is gentle with us. And I'll tell you a story here from the Bible that kind of, I think, defines it. It helps us see, you know, what Jesus means here. And we're going to look at this story about when Jesus meets up with his disciples after his death and after his resurrection. They all meet on the beach, right? The shore of Galilee. And that's where he kind of engages with them." [16:09](
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5. "Jesus calmly and lovingly restores Peter back into ministry, right? And I got to believe that at least on Peter's side of things, there had to be some tension there. There had to be some level of, I don't know, anxiety, right? He had just abandoned Jesus in his biggest time of need. moment of need, when he's been arrested, he's being confronted, he's actually starting to get beaten up a little bit, right? In that time of need, Peter denies even knowing that they know each other, right? He denies knowing him. And so right now, Peter's probably feeling some tension. And in this moment now, when they're regathered for what we understand to be the first time, we have no other indication that they had spoken or seen each other. In that moment, Jesus met Peter right there and lovingly restored him to ministry." [20:26](
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