Gentleness: The Strength of Being Tender

by Phyllis J. LePeau

Overview

Gentle people are often viewed as weak. They would rather persuade than force. They are self-giving rather than self-assertive. They prefer a kind word rather than a cutting remark. Yet these gentle qualities reveal a quiet power. A strong person may not be gentle, but a gentle person must be strong. This Fruit of the Spirit Bible study helps you discover the strength of being tender.The eight-volume Fruit of the Spirit Bible Studies series not only helps you discover what the Bible says about the vital traits that the Holy Spirit produces in believers, but also moves you beyond reflection and discussion to application. Designed for use in small groups or personal devotions, the interactive format will help you grow in your ability to reflect the character of Jesus.Revised to include:Expanded leader’s notes Between-studies applications Suggestions for prayer

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780310238645
Publisher:	HarperChristian Resources
Publication date:	08/13/2001
Series:	Fruit of the Spirit Bible Studies
Edition description:	REVISED
Pages:	80
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.25(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Phyllis is Area Director for Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship in Chicago West. She is a speaker and the author or coauthor of a number of books for Inter Varsity, including Ephesians, Wholeness for a Broken World, and the Resources for the Coping Christian Series. She and her husband, Andy, live in Downers Grove, Illinois.

Read an Excerpt

Gentleness

The Strength of Being Tender

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By Phyllis J. Le Peau

Zondervan

Copyright © 2001 Zondervan
All right reserved.
ISBN: 0-310-23864-1

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Chapter One

GENTLENESS IS NOT WEAKNESS

Matthew 21:1-17

Gentle Jesus, meek and mild, look upon a little child." Jesus is often portrayed as gentle in poems, hymns, and paintings. Yet his "gentleness" seems limp, almost effeminate. His pale, white skin and his delicate features make him seem soft, weak, retiring.

What a contrast to the Jesus of Scripture! In Matthew 21 we discover that there is strength in his gentleness and gentleness in his strength.

Warming Up

1. Why do you think people sometimes assume that a gentle person is also a weak person?

Digging In

2. Read Matthew 21:1-17. What impact do you think the events in verses 1-11 had on the disciples? On the crowd?

3. According to verse 5, the prophet Zechariah describes Jesus as gentle (Zech. 9:9). How is his gentleness demonstrated in the way he approaches Jerusalem (vv. 5-11)?

4. There is a sudden change of tone as Jesus enters the temple. What motivates Jesus' actions in verses 12-13?

5. How do Christ's actions in the temple contrast with the popular image of "gentle Jesus, meek and mild"?

6. In what kinds of situations is a firm, tough love more appropriate than a gentle response?

7. How is Christ's gentleness again demonstrated in his response to the blind, the lame, and the children (vv. 14-15)?

8. The chief priests and the teachers of the law are "indignant" when they see the wonderful things Jesus does and when they hear the shouts of the children (vv. 15-16). Why are the religious leaders threatened by these things?

9. How would you evaluate Christ's response to their challenge (vv. 16-17)? Is he confrontive? Gentle? Both?

10. What do you learn about gentleness as you observe Jesus throughout this passage?

(Continues...)

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