In Galatians 5:22-23, we see a list of characteristics that is consistent with the Christian life, which is called the Fruit of the Spirit. This is not like the gifts of the Spirit where not one believer possesses all of the gifts. The Christian has every fruit mentioned in this passage.
In this passage, gentleness is the second to last right before self-control. Gentleness tends to be overlooked especially in a culture that seems to be harsh and critical. Jesus said He is "gentle and humble in heart" (Matthew 11:29). The Apostle Paul said that he did not come to the Thessalonian church with flattering words, any source of greed, or seeking the praise of men, but "we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children" (1 Thessalonians 2:7).
Jesus and the Apostle Paul both showed gentleness in their life and ministry. Christians can do the same since we have the Holy Spirit, and the evidence of that is the fruit shown in our lives, which is the Fruit of the Spirit. R.D. Norman, a missionary in Romania, has written a book to show Christians the Bible's teachings on gentleness, simply titled, Gentleness: A Way of Life.
Norman begins this book with looking at God, in fact, he looks on all of the Godhead at is relates to gentleness. He shows from the Bible how gentle the Father is who gives us His Spirit, who comforts us along with the Son who is our Shepherd who guides us.
Next, Norman looks at how Christians can be gentle. One note, Norman is not indicating being soft. There are times we must be firm. We must speak with truth in love. How we live our lives and speak to another must be a life of gentleness as Christ should us. One area Christians should show gentleness is in the area of suffering. When life gets hard, Christians are to be the ones comforting one another and those around us. As we share the gospel it must be done in gentleness because lost people do not know the Way.
Gentleness is one subject not necessarily discussed. If it is, it usually is a guilt trip message on someone's tone or being dismissive when a preacher is calling out a false teacher. We need a proper Biblical understanding of gentleness. Norman's book provides that. This book will be excellent in a study on the Fruit of the Spirit.
I received this book from G3 Press in exchange for an honest review.
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