Abundant Living

190 A b u n d a n t L i v i n g
lesson development
Gentleness Identified
Biblical Definition
Objective 1. Identify the biblical use of praotes as gentleness.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness . . .”
(Galatians 5:22–23). The word gentleness in Galatians 5:23
comes from the Greek word praotes. It is probably the most
difficult of the attributes to define, since it speaks of an inward
attitude rather than external action. The three main ideas of
gentleness as the fruit of the Spirit are these:
1. Submission to the will of God. This is what Jesus was
talking about in Matthew 11:29, when He said, “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
describes Himself as having gentleness and humility. Both of
these are characteristics of one who has submitted totally to the
will of God.
2. Teachableness. This is willingness to learn, or not being
too proud to learn. James 1:21 speaks of this: “Humbly accept
the word planted in you, which can save you.”
3. Being considerate. Most often praotes is used in
reference to showing consideration, moderation, calmness, or
care, or bearing with others because of love.
Gentleness is the opposite of harshness. It is to be moderate,
peaceful, and submissive without the idea of weakness or
inferiority. There is nothing cowardly about gentleness—in the
Bible we see it related to courage, fortitude, and resolution.
Moses was a very gentle man, but at the same time he was
ready to move and act in times of difficulty.
Praotes describes a condition of mind and heart which is
spiritual in nature and is a fruit of power. In Galatians 6:1 the
apostle Paul says, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you