Gentleness

Galations 5:22-23

World’s view of Gentleness: Weakness.

Biblical view of Gentleness:  Power under control.

Gentleness in Jesus’ life

• Isaiah 42:1-3
• John 4
• John 8:1-11
• Luke 19:1-10
• Matthew 26

What does it look like in my life?

• Displayed in my attitude.

• Displayed in my behavior.

• Displayed in my speech.

Take Home Idea: True gentleness is power and strength that’s been brought under God’s control.

"Gentleness" Small Group Questions

Galations 5:22-23

Opening:

Who is the gentlest person you know? What is it that makes them gentle?
Review Pastor Joel's sermon and Take Home Idea.  What struck you about the sermon?  What do you have questions about?

Dig:

When you present Christ to someone, how do you portray Him? Rigid Authority? Loving Savior? Royal Creator? Strong and gentle Rest-giver?
Read Galatians 5:16-26.
How do the works of the flesh in vs. 19-21 contrast with “gentleness”?  Which ones more directly opposite of “gentleness”?
How is gentleness “power under control”?  Do you agree with definition or not?  
Read each of the following. Where do you see Jesus’ gentle character?  

• Isaiah 42:1-3 (Matthew 12:15-21)
• John 4
• John 8:1-11
• Luke 19:1-10
• Matthew 26

Reflect:

Do a little internal heart check.  How is gentleness showing up in your life?
Do I show consideration to the clerk, bank teller, and everyone else? Is gentleness on display in my speech?
Do I tell myself that I am standing on principle, when in fact I am merely insisting on my own opinions?  
Am I increasingly compassionate, reasonable and kind or am I disturbingly crusty, unyielding and inflexible? Does gentleness show up in how I treat others?
Read Matthew 28-30.  Has the gentleness of Jesus been an encouragement in your life? If you answered yes, what are the ways this has been true?
How can you live by the Spirit and grow in this virtue of faithfulness this week?

Close this time sharing and praying together as a group.