Gentleness is one of the most powerful testimonies of Jesus to the world around us. Yet it is far too often a rare commodity in pastoral ministry.
Gentleness is not a cowardly retreat from reality, quite the contrary. The Apostle Paul viewed it as a powerful weapon in pastoral ministry. Just how much did he value gentleness?
When speaking to the arrogant: “...What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in love and with a gentle spirit?...” (1 Cor 4:21)
When dealing with church discipline: "...Those who are spiritual should restore him gently..." (Galatians 6:1)
With respect to Christian conduct and communication: "...Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near..." (Phillipians 4:5)
With respect to outsiders: "...and to show true humble gentleness toward everyone..." (Titus 3:2)
With respect to our calling in ministry: “...Be completely humble and gentle...” (Ephesians 4:2)
So as pastors and as ministry leaders, whether in our church discipline, in our calling, in our communication, or our conduct, may our gentleness be evident to all.
Gentleness is not a cowardly retreat from reality, quite the contrary. The Apostle Paul viewed it as a powerful weapon in pastoral ministry. Just how much did he value gentleness?
When speaking to the arrogant: “...What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in love and with a gentle spirit?...” (1 Cor 4:21)
When dealing with church discipline: "...Those who are spiritual should restore him gently..." (Galatians 6:1)
With respect to Christian conduct and communication: "...Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near..." (Phillipians 4:5)
With respect to outsiders: "...and to show true humble gentleness toward everyone..." (Titus 3:2)
With respect to our calling in ministry: “...Be completely humble and gentle...” (Ephesians 4:2)
So as pastors and as ministry leaders, whether in our church discipline, in our calling, in our communication, or our conduct, may our gentleness be evident to all.
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