[I apologize that the Bible study for this week is late. My house was without power and Internet service for several hours today. We’ll continue with our study of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and what it means to be meek.]
“He who has the most toys, wins.”
“I’ll do it my way.”
List other slogans our society has coined to show a “get ahead” mentality.
Bible passage: Mt 5:1-4
Key Verse: Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. – Matthew 5:5
Digging in the Word
In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, he established, step by step, the inner attitude of a disciple. So far, we’ve seen that a disciple needs to admit his spiritual bankruptcy before God (Mt 5:3) and feel a sense of grief and remorse over his broken relationship with God (Mt 5:4). This week, we’ll look at what it means to be meek.
1. What is your understanding of the word meek?
2. Read the following verses: How do these expand your understanding of meekness? Ps 37:10,11; Zeph 3:11-13, Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Thess 2:3-8, 2 Timothy 2:24.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary of the New Testament and Vincent’s Word Studies in the New Testament both describe meekness as an inner attitude or character trait. It is a synonym of gentleness which is more the outer expression of meekness. In Mt 5:5, Jesus is talking more about an attitude toward God, that we accept God’s dealings with us as good and therefore we won’t fight or struggle against God (Vine). Meekness is not weakness. Jesus was meek yet had infinite power at His disposal.
3. Why would Jesus say a meek person will inherit the earth? What advantage does a meek, gentle, and humble spirit have ? How does this contract with the world’s mindset we considered at the beginning of this study? Have you ever observed someone coming out on top because they showed a spirit of gentleness, humility and equanimity?
4. On a scale of 1 to 10, what is your meekness level toward God? Would you consider yourself submissive and accepting of God’s ways or do you fight Him to do things and view the world in your own way? How do you show meekness in your relationship with others? How well do you react with meekness when you face obstacles or tough times and God’s purpose seem less apparent?
What’s Next?
As we deliberate New Year’s goals and resolutions this week, I challenge you to make “meekness” your word for the year. Pray that God will show you how to:
1. React with gentleness and humility in times of struggle.
2. Show more gentleness to those around you by becoming more fair, considerate, equitable and forbearing.
Jesus called us to learn from Him:
“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.” Mt. 11:29
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