Topical Encyclopedia Meekness is a virtue highly esteemed in the Christian faith, often associated with humility, gentleness, and a submissive spirit to God's will. It is a quality that believers are encouraged to cultivate as part of their spiritual growth and sanctification. The Bible presents meekness not as weakness, but as strength under control, a disposition that reflects the character of Christ Himself.Biblical Foundation The call for believers to embody meekness is rooted in Scripture. In the Beatitudes, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). This promise underscores the value God places on meekness, associating it with divine blessing and eternal reward. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently exhorts Christians to adopt meekness as part of their new identity in Christ. In Colossians 3:12, he writes, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" . Here, "gentleness" is often understood as meekness, indicating a gentle and humble demeanor that believers are to "put on" as a garment. Christ as the Model of Meekness Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of meekness. In Matthew 11:29, He invites His followers, saying, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" . Christ's life and ministry exemplified meekness through His submission to the Father's will, His patient endurance of suffering, and His compassionate interactions with others. Meekness in Interpersonal Relationships Meekness is essential in maintaining harmonious relationships within the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:2 urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" . This passage highlights the role of meekness in fostering unity and peace among Christians. Furthermore, in Galatians 6:1, Paul advises, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted" . Here, meekness is crucial in the process of restoration, ensuring that correction is administered with love and care. Meekness in Witness and Evangelism Meekness also plays a vital role in the believer's witness to the world. In 1 Peter 3:15, Christians are instructed, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect" . This approach to evangelism, characterized by meekness, reflects the grace and truth of the Gospel. The Fruit of the Spirit Meekness is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:23. As believers walk by the Spirit, they naturally exhibit meekness as evidence of the Spirit's work in their lives. This fruit is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, enabling Christians to live in a manner that honors God and serves others. In summary, meekness is a vital attribute that saints are called to put on, reflecting the character of Christ and enabling them to live out their faith in a way that glorifies God and edifies the church. Torrey's Topical Textbook Colossians 3:12-13Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christian Meekness All Saints' Day Christ the Mediator of the Covenant Matt. xxii. 1-14. What a Good Man Is, and How He Becomes So The Holiness of God The Wise and Foolish virgins Treatise ix. On the Advantage of Patience. Mormonites, or the Church of the Latter-Day Saints. There have Come to Me Ransomers from among the Saints, but None ... Resources What does the Bible say about forbearance? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible instruct us to have childlike faith? | GotQuestions.org Was Hitler a Christian? | GotQuestions.org Meekness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Meekness: A Characteristic of Wisdom Meekness: A Fruit of the Spirit Meekness: Christ Set an Example of Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: Ministers should Follow After Meekness: Ministers should Instruct Opposers With Meekness: Ministers should Urge, on Their People Meekness: Necessary to a Christian Walk Meekness: Precious in the Sight of God Meekness: Saints should Answer for Their Hope With Meekness: Saints should Exhibit, in Conduct Meekness: Saints should Put On Meekness: Saints should Receive the Word of God With Meekness: Saints should Restore the Erring With Meekness: Saints should Show to all Men Meekness: The Gospel to be Preached to Those Who Possess Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Beautified With Salvation Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Exalted Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Guided and Taught Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Preserved Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Richly Provided For Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Shall Inherit the Earth Related Terms Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Tender-heartedness (2 Occurrences) Acknowledgment (6 Occurrences) Superabundance (4 Occurrences) |