An expression of compassion, seen in God's dealings with the frail and weak, and expected of believers in their dealings with others.
The gentleness of God
In dealing with the wayward
Isaiah 40:1–2; Luke 1:76–79 See also Isaiah 30:18–19, Isaiah 54:8, Isaiah 63:15 God's gentleness is not always evident; Hosea 2:13–15; Romans 2:4 God's gentle dealings are not always appreciated.
“Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her forced labor has been completed; her iniquity has been pardoned. For she has received from the hand of the LORD double for all her sins.”
And you, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for Him, to give to His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the Dawn will visit us from on high, to shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
In caring for the weak
Isaiah 40:11 See also 1 Kings 19:12
He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes.
The gentleness of Jesus Christ
Matthew 11:29 See also Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:4–5, Matthew 12:18–21; Isaiah 42:1–3; 2 Corinthians 10:1; Philippians 2:1; Hebrews 5:2
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.
Examples of Jesus Christ's gentleness
Mark 1:40–42, Mark 5:25–34, Mark 10:13–16; John 8:3–11
Gentleness as strength esteemed by God
Proverbs 15:1; James 3:17 See also Proverbs 25:15; Matthew 5:5; 1 Peter 3:1–4
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
Gentleness as a mark of Christian character
Colossians 3:12 See also Galatians 5:22–23; Ephesians 4:1–2; 1 Timothy 6:11
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
Believers are to reflect God's gentleness in their dealings with people
In correcting the wayward
Galatians 6:1 See also 2 Timothy 2:24–25
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.
In reasoning with unbelievers
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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.
In nurturing new believers
See also 1 Thessalonians 2:7
In showing consideration to all
Titus 3:1–2 See also Ephesians 4:32; Philippians 4:5
Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work, to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.