What does the Bible say about gentleness?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that gentleness is a Christlike fruit of the Spirit, shown in humble, patient, and gracious dealings with others, while trusting God to defend and shape His people. Jesus describes Himself as gentle and lowly in heart in Matthew 11:29, and His disciples are called to reflect His character. Galatians 5:22-23 names gentleness among the Spirit's fruit, not a natural virtue earned by self-effort. Titus 3:2, Ephesians 4:2, and Galatians 6:1 call believers to show meekness, patience, and restorative care. Even when correcting error, 2 Timothy 2:24-26 and 1 Peter 3:15 require a gentle, respectful spirit, while Proverbs 15:1 commends the soft answer that turns away wrath.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Titus 3:2 8 votes
to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
- 1 Peter 3:15 5 votes
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear,
- Proverbs 15:1 5 votes
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
- Psalms 18:35 4 votes
You have also given me the shield of your salvation. Your right hand sustains me. Your gentleness has made me great.
- 2 Timothy 2:24-26 4 votes
The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but be gentle toward all, able to teach, patient, in gentleness correcting those who oppose him. Perhaps God may give them repentance leading to a full knowledge of the truth, and they may recover themselves out of the devil’s snare, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
- James 3:17 4 votes
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
- Galatians 5:22-23 4 votes
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
- Galatians 6:1 3 votes
Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted.
- Matthew 11:29 3 votes
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.
- Ephesians 4:2 3 votes
with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
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