Topical Bible: Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Guided and Taught

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Meekness is a virtue highly esteemed in the Bible, often associated with humility, gentleness, and a willingness to submit to God's will. It is not to be confused with weakness; rather, it is strength under control, a quality that reflects a deep trust in God and a commitment to His ways.

Biblical Definition and Context

The term "meekness" in the Bible is derived from the Greek word "praus," which conveys a sense of mildness and gentleness. In the Hebrew Scriptures, the concept is often linked with humility and lowliness of spirit. Meekness is a fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:23, and is a characteristic that believers are encouraged to cultivate.

Meekness in the Teachings of Jesus

Jesus Christ, in His Sermon on the Mount, highlights the blessedness of the meek: "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). This beatitude underscores the future reward for those who embody meekness, promising them a share in God's kingdom. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of meekness, as He describes His own heart: "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" (Matthew 11:29).

Meekness in the Old Testament

The Old Testament also extols the virtue of meekness. Psalm 25:9 states, "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way" . This verse illustrates the connection between meekness and divine guidance. Those who are meek are open to God's instruction and are led by Him in paths of righteousness. Similarly, Psalm 37:11 promises, "But the meek will inherit the land and delight in abundant prosperity" , echoing the promise of inheritance and blessing.

Meekness in the Life of Moses

Moses is often cited as a paragon of meekness. Numbers 12:3 describes him as "a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth" . Despite his position of leadership, Moses demonstrated a profound reliance on God, seeking His guidance and instruction throughout his life. His meekness allowed him to be a conduit for God's will, leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

Meekness in the Epistles

The New Testament epistles further emphasize the importance of meekness in the life of a believer. James 1:21 advises, "Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls" . Here, meekness is associated with a receptive heart, one that is open to the transformative power of God's Word. Additionally, 1 Peter 3:4 encourages women to cultivate "the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight" , highlighting the value God places on meekness.

Meekness in Christian Conduct

Meekness is integral to Christian conduct and relationships. Ephesians 4:2 urges believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love" . This call to meekness fosters unity and peace within the body of Christ. Furthermore, Galatians 6:1 instructs, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness" , demonstrating how meekness should guide interactions, especially in correction and restoration.

In summary, meekness is a divine attribute that reflects a heart aligned with God's will. It is a quality that invites His guidance and instruction, promising blessings both in this life and the life to come.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 25:9
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Exalting the Cross
... in labor, was a tried worker, gifted with the ... Those who had taught Timothy in his
childhood were ... young, he bore his responsibilities with Christian meekness. ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 20 exalting the cross.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ...
... yet softened with the graces of meekness and patience ... I name Leonard Harburgh, once
famous, gifted, laborious, useful? ... own soul and the souls of those who heard ...
/.../chapter 2 from the close.htm

part i
... Meekness and humility overspread it, and involuntarily captivate everyone by their ...
Those who hate others torture and tyrannise over themselves; therefore they ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

On the Soul and the Resurrection.
... at the waning and waxing moon you are taught other truths ... was meek beyond all men
(and by meekness it indicates ... and that he desired none of those things about ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/on the soul and the 2.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... And because the prayer which Christ taught his disciples ... He now sought acquaintance
with those whom before he ... by any sectarian feeling, being guided solely by ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... V. Who was to fell those trees, and to dig those stones, with which Solomon built ...
begotten and born of God to himself, and a servant as he is gifted for work ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... supplications to the God of mercy and truth, that they may be guided to Christ,
as ... OF THIS WORK, WRITTEN BY THE AUTHOR THEREOF, AND DEDICATED TO THOSE WHOM GOD ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

part ii
... thou must be an example of meekness, purity, valour ... customary to forgive the sins
of those who trespass ... offended by Christian people, who are gifted with speech ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm