11 Points: How Did Aaron Die in the Bible? People who are gentle tend to be happier and more content with life. Therefore, someone who lacks gentleness is often prideful and easily angered, or feels the need for revenge. Yet, he is gentle with us. People have been searching for this treasure for hundred of years. The biblical concept of gentleness is often misunderstood. In fact, it was his gentleness that allowed him to touch the hearts of so many people and change their lives forever. Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness. This verse tells us that we should not only be kind toward others but also put their needs before our own. 9. Another pair of opposites in the Bible is innocence and guilt. Consider what would happen if the omnipotent God was characterized by harshness with his creatures made of dust. The Bible does more than answer this question, so lets learn about gentleness in the Bible, Gentleness Definition In The Bible, definition of gentleness in the bible kjv and examples of gentleness in the bible what implications this has for our lives today. It is important to have an accurate perception of what gentleness is. When we think of the life of Jesus, we often think of his miracles and his teachings. of the flesh" "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." (Gal. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Its the opposite of harshness, and it means that we dont try to force our beliefs or ideas on others. Some argue that a gentleness is just as strong if not stronger as brute force. When you do this you can then look for ways to meet those needs and truly help work through those feelings. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. There are two other types of peace. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is self-control. Instead, let us show compassion on those around us by being gentle towards themespecially those who may not be as fortunate as ourselves. . All rights reserved. When we are full of the Holy Spirit, His fruit will be seen in our lives. In the OT its often translated humbleas in Psalm 24:9, 33:3, 75:10, 146:6, and 149:4. "International Standard Bible Encyclopedia". That kind of mass violence is the opposite of kindness, goodness, and gentleness. Gentleness is a requisite for a servant of God, particularly one in a responsible position of oversight. So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; Galatians 5:22-23. Jesus was also known for his gentleness. In Galatians it is a mark of being led by the Spirit and it is shown as an example of walking in step with the Spirit in Galatians 6:1. The fruit of the Spirit is gentleness. In 2 Macc 15:12 Onias is said (the King James Version) to be "gentle (praos) in condition," the Revised Version (British and American) "in manner.". It is a trait that is godly, and as His children God expects us to become gentle, as He is. Reach out to the person who hurt you and try to reconcile. In sharing the good news of the gospel we are to do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15-16). We should also work at controlling our tempers with grace, kindness, patience, forgiveness, love and respect for others. As a result, our children learn to trust us and to respond to us with respect. Cognate: 4240 prats (compare 4236 /prats, another feminine noun which is also derived from the root pra-, emphasizing the divine origin of the meekness) - meekness ("gentle strength") which expresses power with reserve and gentleness. And these are the people whom I admire the most. Some people would say that peace is the opposite of war, when there is no fighting or violence. Sensitivity of disposition and kindness of behavior, founded on strength and prompted by love. He was a rough man by trade, but when it came to leading men to Christ, he employed great gentleness. Consider Revelation 21 as a passage to meditate upon. There is a secondary word, epieikes, which refers to being gentle, gracious, and forbearing. In this verse, Paul makes it clear that gentleness is not something from the Law or from human effort or will power; rather, it comes from Gods grace through faith in Jesus Christ. We may picture someone who is easily intimidated or who shrinks back from conflict. We will see that gentleness is not weakness, but rather a powerful force for good in the world.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'jesusleadershiptraining_com-box-3','ezslot_1',624,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-jesusleadershiptraining_com-box-3-0'); Gentleness is often seen as a virtue, and it is praised throughout history. The LORD recently spoke to me about how harsh I can be. Paul was a great example of this. He does not keep record of our wrongs, but offers forgiveness if we come to Him. Gentleness is a virtue that is praised in the Bible and throughout history. Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone (Titus 3:1-2). Do you ever find yourself thinking this way? The opposite of temperance is self-indulgence. I think about what Paul said in Philippians on shining like stars in a crooked and perverse generation. God himself spoke to Elijah as a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13). Gentle occurs in the Old Testament only in the Revised Version (British and American) of Jeremiah 11:19, "I was like a gentle lamb" (kebhes). Gentleness doesn't come naturally. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is patience? Wives should seek "the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit" ( 1 Peter 3:4 ). Required fields are marked *. But it is also important to remember that he was a man who was deeply compassionate and full of mercy. Let your gentleness be known of all men. The Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek NT defines it this way: Prautes denotes the humble and gentle attitude which expresses itself, in particular, in a patient submissiveness to offense, free from malice and desire for revenge controlled strength, the ability to bear reproaches and slights without bitterness and resentment; the ability to provide a soothing influence on someone who is in a state of anger, bitterness and resentment against life the word indicates an obedient submissiveness to God and His will, with unwavering faith and enduring patience displaying itself in a gentle attitude and kind acts toward others, and this often in the face of opposition.. Gentleness is closely related to humility and meekness. People will see Jesus in us when we are gentle. Galatians 5:22-23. We have to ask ourselves if gentleness doesnt work, perhaps we are striving for the wrong kingdom. Ephesians 4:1-2. Instead, we gently express what we believe without being critical or judgmental. It is necessary, then, that we wield this authority with gentleness. The word gentleness in this context comes from the Greek word (prautes), which conveys the concepts of mildness, meekness or softness. You may also enjoy:The Responsibilities of a Parent in the BibleChildren Should Be Seen and Not Heard A Biblical PerspectiveFree Bible Verse Coloring Pages (including the fruit of the Spirit bible verse), Your email address will not be published. Gentleness is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, and its not just a nice thing to be. Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology - Gentleness, Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, International Standard Bible Encyclopedia - Gentleness. It is used in the OT to show God as being a kind and benevolent ruler. It's a beauty that you don't have to go through all kinds of cosmetic surgery or makeup routines to preserve. Is it not fitting then for believers to exude this same characteristic? A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1). It is the ability to be kind and loving even in the face of adversity. When we are full of the Holy Spirit, we will have the fruit of gentleness in our lives. And once again the Lord is working for their rescue. Gentleness extends grace (undeserved favor), love, and kindness to even the most difficult-to-like people. It is a Fruit of the Holy Spirit by good work and a gentle tongue. Gentle Like a Shepherd. When we are gentle with others, we are showing them the love and compassion of Christ. Gentleness comes from a state of humility. When people are kind and caring, they are more likely to get along with others and resolve conflicts peacefully. Bibliography Information Orr, James, M.A., D.D. "Entry for 'GENTLENESS'". What is the opposite of gentleness in the Bible? In the Bible, gentleness is also called meekness, and it is a prominent virtue in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is kindness? The New Testament is full of examples of Jesus gentleness. The law cannot give us the strength to be gentle. Developing Christian Gentleness is a sermon from Galatians 5:22-23 about the six ways that the Holy Spirit helps a Christian learn to be gentle. Honestly, a change in our worldview/theology would do a great deal of work here as well. What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God? This sandbox wisdom happens to be in agreement with the Bible. Gentleness is one of the most important virtues in the Bible. Against such things there is no law. But the Bible speaks differently. His manner is not harsh or abrasive. When we are patient and kind with those who are hurting, we offer them a glimpse of the hope and healing that is found in Jesus. A mildness of disposition or manner, thus the opposite of roughness or harshness. . The Oxford Dictionary defines gentleness as, "the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered." Kindness is literally a part of gentleness; the two are intertwined, and therefore when one is portrayed, so is the other. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Online Christian Articles and Information Hub. Be subject to and obey God's word. God always speaks and acts in a gentle way. GENTLENESS. And does it accomplish things? In doing so we will win over those who hear us. Prautes is also used to translate a different Hebrew word that is often translated the poor. This is the case in Job 24:4, Isaiah 26:6, Zechariah 9:9, and Zephaniah 3:12. In the New Testament epieikeia ("fairness," "moderation," in Acts 24:4 translated "clemency") is in 2Corinthians 10:1 translated "gentleness," "the meekness and gentleness of Christ" (2 Macc 2:22 "favour," the Revised Version (British and American) "forbearance"); chrestotes, "kindness," "usefulness," is translated "gentleness" in Galatians 5:22 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "kindness"; chrestos is the word translated "kind" (to the unthankful and evil, Luke 6:35), and chrestotes seems to carry in it a similar idea of active kindness. When we humble ourselves and trust in Gods strength, we can show gentleness even to those who are difficult to love. What does it look like to be gentle? But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.. Of all the character traits which could have been part of the fruit of the Spirit, why is gentleness in that list? In the Old Testament the Septuagint uses it once in Psalm 45:4. So when the Messiah came at last, many assumed he was going to be a cultural and political Savior,. "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control" ( Gal 5:22-23 ), a cluster of qualities each of which reinforces and finds expression in the others. Gentleness is a virtue that is praised in the Bible and throughout history. This means more "that which is fitting, right, and equitable." You can also check out these gentle parenting bible study discussion guides.This post was written by guest blogger Meaghan Jackson ofGentle Parenting Coaching. These two qualities seem to go together. Remember the Golden Rule: Treat others the way you would like to be treated. It's the opposite of anger and harshness. Opposite of the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered brutality unkindness hardness harshness imperviousness roughness cruelty savagery inhumanity barbarity viciousness atrocity sadism heartlessness ruthlessness barbarousness savageness fiendishness bestiality atrociousness barbarism brutishness mercilessness wickedness bloodthirstiness Bibliography. Instead, let us show compassion on those around us by being gentle towards themespecially those who may not be as fortunate as ourselves. About 5 years ago, Robert Ringer wrote the book Looking Out For Number One. Furthermore, when we are gentle with our children, we help them to develop into well-rounded individuals who are able to navigate the challenges of life with grace and strength. Gentleness is getting something done. If you want to make the world a better place, start by being gentle with others. opposite of gentleness in the bible. of Gentleness also means that we are patient with those who disagree with us, because they may have valid reasons for their position or opinion. The quality of gentleness is the opposite of harshness with others. Doing so creates a closer connection and will save you from needless hardships in your relationships. You could also have the children play the role . Jesus had it: " I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls " ( Matthew 11:29, ESV). A common misconception is that gentleness is weakness or passivity. Sometimes gentleness is used interchangeably with "meekness" in the Bible. It is the opposite of harshness and violence. To have gentleness is to have a gentle spirit or nature about you. brutality. We will not be easily offended and will control our tempers. Gentleness is not weakness, but rather a powerful force for good in the world. Is It True That Gentleness Gets Nothing Done. This means that when we see someone in need, we can no longer ignore them or pass them off as someone elses problem. How Daniels Prophecy of 70 Weeks Connects to the End Times. Gentleness is suggested by the waters of a stream ( Isa 8:6 ) or by wine flowing over lips and teeth ( So 7:9 ). But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. So, you might be surprised to know the Bible has much to say about gentleness. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. That means that if you want to be like Jesus, then gentleness should be one of your top priorities. These verses can be applied to any relationship or interaction with have with others. Gentleness remembers that we are all sinners (Romans 3:23), and we are all trying to find our way through this ungentle world. Galatians 5:22-25. It is the opposite of being harsh with others. Not only does it mean being kind to people who are kind to you, but also it means being kind even when someone isnt nice back! Its not easy to achieve but worth striving for because then you can live at peace with yourself and others all around you. He will still be gentle and lowly in heart. Ad revenue is generated off of page views. Gentleness is typically used as an opposite of harshness. Harshness, meanness, or malice. Note that the Catholic church includes a few additional fruits as part of tradition, listing 12: Its a way of dealing with people, yourself, and God. Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. Posted on Monday, May 17, 2021 by K-LOVE Pastors. Opposite of the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered, Opposite of civility, politeness, courtesy or gallantry, Opposite of the sum of all attributes that are feminine or convey womanhood, Opposite of sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others, Many of the world's ills can be traced back to society's general, Opposite of the quality of abiding by strong moral principles, Opposite of the state, act, or fact of being calm and composed, Opposite of the class of people having an aristocratic status. Both qualities come from God and both are fruits of His Spirit at work in our lives. There are many benefits to being gentle. One example is found in 1 Peter 3:4-5: But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in Gods sight is very precious., Another example is found in Philippians 2:3-4: Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.. Gentleness is one of the most important virtues in the Bible. The law cannot give us the strength to be gentle. That king, now come in the flesh, is "gentle and humble in heart" ( Matt 11:29 ). It seems to be synonymous with being a good person. 13:5) That means we need to recognize when our anger has run out of control and learn how to stop it before it gets out of hand. A. And he is calling upon us to exude that same characteristic in our interaction with others. Instead, we gently express what we believe without being critical or judgmental. Throughout history, there have been many gentle people who have made a difference in the world. A gentle touch or kind word can go a long way in building trust and rapport, fostering cooperation and obedience. Philippians 2:3). We need to be intentional about showing our spouse gentleness. My heart is too hard to go in the spirit of meekness to visit the sister who I have offended or who has offended me (, More Heart to Heart: Godly Wisdom Woman To Woman. harshness. But His grace is sufficient for us, right!? 2. Opposite of the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered. It should not be seen as a weakness, but rather as a strength. Gentleness is an important quality for Christians to develop if they want to be effective in spreading Gods Word and helping others come closer to Christ. Thank God for His forgiveness and grace extended to you, no matter how much you may deserve it.. Be encouraged that He will help you extend that same grace to others, even when its difficult. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is joy? Seeking the Gospel in Malachi, the Last Book of the Old Testament. To me, its important to raise my children with gentleness and tenderness. To understand what gentleness looks like in practice, lets look at some examples from scripture: Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. It is related to another Greek word often used in the New Testament, (tapeinophrosyne), which speaks of humility or lowliness of mind. "We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children."1 Thessalonians 2:7 What is the opposite of gentleness? From these examples of gentleness in the bible, we can picture a soft touch, calm reassurance, and a loving hand. 2 Corinthians 10:1 uses the meekness and gentleness (kindness) of Christ as an example for his own pattern. Sharpness, coldness, or evil. You can find various definitions of gentleness online: A mildness of manners or disposition Sensitivity of disposition and kindness of behavior, founded on strength and prompted by love. It is amazing how ONE small act of kindness shown to our spouses can change the atmosphere of an entire day. And that is exactly what this world needs to see in us instead of harsh words, gentle words showing us as gentle people. Jesus has been relentlessly showing me that my character IN HIM is gentleness & self-control. But what does it mean to be gentle? Each aspect of this fruit is characteristic of Christ Jesus. This means that when gentleness exists in your life, its because God has planted it there. Salem Media Group. The qualities to which gentleness is joined elucidate its setting and character. It is important to Christians because it is important to God. By his Spirit, Christ cultivates the same quality in his people ( Gal 5:23 ). Study to show thyself approved unto God, rightly dividing the word of truth (2Timothy 2:15). Its the opposite of anger and harshness. Toughness and controlled anger in a just cause are not the opposite of gentleness.