“Knowing Them By Their Fruits”
A Study of the Fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23
“By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” Jesus (Jn. 15:8)
I. The GENTLENESS of Jesus (Matt. 11:28-30)
It is interesting that God is never referred to as gentle or meek, but Jesus, in His ______________, is spoken of as gentle. cf. Matt. 11:29; 21:5; 2 Cor. 10:1 Jesus actually described Himself as “gentle & _________ of heart.” cf. Matt. 11:29 – “rest for your souls” Isaiah prophesied of this character trait in the coming ____________. cf. Is. 40:11; 42:1-3; Matt. 12:20As gentleness is closely related to __________, it causes hurting, weak & needy people to be drawn to it. cf. Mt. 11:28-30; 12:20 – battered reed; smoldering wick
“Gentleness refers to mildness in dealing with others… it displays a sensitive regard for others…” Billy Graham
A person who is gentle makes people with heavy burdens feel at ease & ___________ in their presence.
II. The Fruit of GENTLENESS (Matt. 5:5)
Jesus, in the Beattitudes, said, “Blessed are the gentle, for they will _________ the earth.” cf. Matt. 5:5 The fruit of gentleness, along with humility, does wonders to promote _______ in the Body. cf. Eph. 4:1-3; Col. 3:12-14; Tit. 3:1-2
Specific Individuals who must be Gentle:
1. Pastors/Elders/Leaders – 1 Tim. 3:3; 2 Tim. 2:25
2. Person who Confronts Another – Gal. 6:1-2
3. Women/Wives – 1 Pet. 3:4
Gentleness is expressed in an attitude of ___________ to the Word of God & a consideration toward others. cf. Jam. 1:21; Eph. 4:2; Col. 3:12 A church that is filled with believers who are gentle will _______ & be a powerful testimony to the Gospel. cf. 1 Thess. 1:6-8; 2:7-8
Practical Application:
- Good & Bad Fruit – Mt. 7:16-20
- Tough & Tender – Matt. 12:17-21
- Weary & Heavy-laden – Matt. 11:28-30
Appointments with God
The Fruit of the SPIRIT – Gentleness
Galatians 5:22-23
Monday, December 12th
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- Matt. 11:28-30; 2 Cor. 10:1
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. How does one see it in Jesus? Pray for one person who is “weary” today.
Tuesday, December 13th
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- Matt. 12:17-21; 21:4-5
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. What does the “battered reed” & “smoldering wick” tells us about Jesus? Praise God for our Savior & Lord Jesus!!
Wednesday, December 14th
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- 1 Tim. 3:1-3; 2 Tim. 2:24-26
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. Why would this fruit be so vital in pastors & church leaders? Pray for our pastors & elders to lead with gentleness & humility!
Thursday, December 15th
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- Gal. 6:1-2
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. Do you know of someone who is “caught” in sin right now? Pray for them & for God to give you boldness & gentleness to help!
Friday, December 16th
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- 1 Peter 3:1-4
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. Why would this fruit be so important in women, especially in marriage? Pray for the women of the church to have a “gentle & quiet spirit” that is precious to God!
Saturday/Sunday, Dec. 17-18
Meditate upon the Priority of the Fruit of Gentleness:
- Eph. 4:1-3; 1 Thess. 2:7-8
Observe this passage as to what it says about the uniqueness & priority of Gentleness. Pray for Unity in our church & for Gospel Outreach as we are “gentle!”
[audio:http://www.marshalltownefc.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/46-Knowing-Them-By-Their-Fruits-Gal.-5_22-23-Gentleness.mp3|titles=46 Knowing Them By Their Fruits (Gal. 5_22-23) Gentleness]46 Knowing Them By Their Fruits (Gal. 5_22-23) Gentleness
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