Meekness is a virtue highly esteemed in the Christian faith, often associated with humility, gentleness, and a willingness to submit to God's will. It is a quality that believers are encouraged to cultivate, especially when dealing with those who have gone astray. The Bible provides guidance on how saints should approach the task of restoring those who have erred, emphasizing the importance of doing so with meekness.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, provides a clear directive on the manner in which believers should restore those who have fallen into sin. Galatians 6:1 states, "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, the term "gentleness" is synonymous with meekness, highlighting the need for a humble and gentle approach.

Characteristics of Meekness in Restoration

1. Gentleness and Humility: Meekness involves a gentle and humble spirit. When restoring someone who has erred, it is crucial to approach them without harshness or a sense of superiority. This aligns with the teaching of Jesus, who described Himself as "gentle and humble in heart" (Matthew 11:29).

2. Patience and Understanding: Meekness requires patience and a willingness to understand the struggles of others. Ephesians 4:2 encourages believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." This patience is essential in the process of restoration, allowing time for healing and growth.

3. Self-awareness and Caution: Paul warns in Galatians 6:1 to "watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." Meekness involves an awareness of one's own vulnerabilities and a cautious approach to avoid falling into similar temptations.

4. Love and Compassion: The restoration process should be motivated by love and compassion. Colossians 3:12 instructs believers to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Love is the driving force behind meekness, seeking the best for the erring individual.

Examples of Meekness in Scripture

· Jesus and the Adulterous Woman: In John 8:1-11, Jesus demonstrates meekness in His interaction with the woman caught in adultery. He does not condemn her but gently instructs her to "go and sin no more" (John 8:11), showing both compassion and a call to righteousness.

· Paul and the Corinthian Church: In 2 Corinthians 10:1 , Paul appeals to the Corinthians "by the meekness and gentleness of Christ." Despite the challenges and errors within the Corinthian church, Paul approaches them with a spirit of meekness, aiming to guide them back to the truth.

The Role of Meekness in the Church

Meekness is essential for maintaining unity and peace within the body of Christ. It fosters an environment where individuals feel safe to confess their sins and seek help without fear of judgment or harshness. James 3:13 asks, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." This wisdom, characterized by meekness, is vital for effective ministry and restoration.

In summary, meekness is a crucial attribute for believers tasked with restoring those who have erred. It involves a gentle, humble, and loving approach, rooted in the example of Christ Himself. By embodying meekness, saints can effectively guide others back to the path of righteousness, fulfilling the law of Christ through love and compassion.Galatians 6:1
Brothers, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering yourself, lest you also be tempted.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Backsliding.
... speak peace unto His people, and to His saints; but let ... Moses was noted for his meekness;
and yet he was ... We should never have had the thirty-second Psalm if ...
/.../moody/the way to god and how to find it/chapter ix backsliding.htm

An Exhortation to Peace and Unity
... should abound more in the spirit of meekness and forbearance ... were erring in many
things, we should soon agree ... of the church makes communion of saints desirable. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exhortation to peace and.htm

Summa Theologica
... Whether Holy Scripture should use metaphors? ... Whether predestination can be furthered
by the prayers of the saints? THE BOOK OF LIFE (THREE ARTICLES). ...
//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/

Introduction to Oration ii.
... by the hand, if it is in danger, or restore it, if ... two; in such wise that his gentleness
should not enervate ... at another he offers the spirit of meekness; at one ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/introduction to oration ii.htm

part ii
... therefore, thou must be an example of meekness, purity, valour ... But you should remember
that the Mother of the ... Christ, the holy angels, and the saints are pure ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... Now, lest any one should look upon it as good luck or fortune, says he, they 'were
born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

Why are there so many different Christian interpretations? | GotQuestions.org

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is gentleness? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about dealing with difficult people? | GotQuestions.org

Meekness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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