Topical Bible: Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Beautified With Salvation

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Meekness is a virtue highly esteemed in the Christian faith, often misunderstood as mere gentleness or weakness. However, in biblical terms, meekness is a profound strength under control, a humble and patient disposition that reflects a deep trust in God. It is a quality that aligns the believer with the character of Christ and is integral to the Christian life.

Biblical Definition and Context

The term "meekness" in the Bible is derived from the Greek word "praus," which conveys a sense of humility and gentleness. It is a quality that Jesus Himself exemplified, as seen in Matthew 11:29 : "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." Here, Jesus invites believers to adopt His meekness, promising rest and peace as a result.

Meekness in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, meekness is often associated with righteousness and favor from God. Psalm 37:11 states, "But the meek will inherit the land and delight in abundant prosperity." This verse highlights the promise of divine blessing and inheritance for those who embody meekness. The meek are portrayed as those who rely on God rather than their own strength, trusting in His justice and timing.

Meekness in the New Testament

The New Testament further emphasizes the importance of meekness in the life of a believer. In the Beatitudes, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). This beatitude underscores the eschatological promise that the meek will receive God's ultimate reward. Meekness is not only a present virtue but also a future hope, as it aligns believers with God's kingdom values.

The Apostle Paul also encourages believers to cultivate meekness. 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." Meekness is listed among the virtues that should characterize the Christian community, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.

Meekness and Salvation

Meekness is intricately connected to salvation, as it reflects a heart that is receptive to God's grace. James 1:21 advises, "Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly receive the word planted in you, which can save your souls." Here, meekness is portrayed as the attitude necessary for receiving the Word of God, which leads to salvation.

The beautification of salvation through meekness is a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. In 1 Peter 3:4 , Peter speaks of the "unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight." This inner beauty, cultivated through meekness, is a reflection of the salvation that adorns the believer's life.

Exemplars of Meekness

Several biblical figures exemplify meekness, serving as models for believers. Moses is described as "a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth" (Numbers 12:3). Despite his leadership role, Moses demonstrated a reliance on God and a willingness to intercede for others, embodying the essence of meekness.

Jesus Christ is the ultimate exemplar of meekness. His life and ministry were marked by humility and submission to the Father's will, even unto death. Philippians 2:7-8 describes how Jesus "emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross."

Practical Application

For believers today, cultivating meekness involves a conscious effort to submit to God's will, trust in His providence, and respond to others with humility and gentleness. It requires a heart that is teachable and open to correction, as well as a spirit that seeks peace and reconciliation.

In a world that often values assertiveness and self-promotion, meekness stands as a countercultural virtue that reflects the transformative power of the Gospel. It is a testament to the beauty of salvation, adorning the believer with the character of Christ and the promise of eternal inheritance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 149:4
For the LORD takes pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Concerning the Ministry.
... but these being over, the meekness, gentleness, love ... church so constituted, [632]
any gifted brother, as ... pastoral office, he cannot administer those which they ...
/.../proposition x concerning the ministry.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... God to himself, and a servant as he is gifted for work ... were thus garnished, so were
the apostles beautified with a ... and a proof of the zeal of those that were ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... of things new and old"those vivid images and burning thoughts, those bright and ... came,
that is, ran out in his heart and affections after salvation by Christ ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm