April 18. Meekness
J.R. Miller teaches that true meekness, exemplified by Jesus Christ, is a noble strength marked by gentleness, patience, and forgiveness rather than weakness or cowardice.
In this devotional sermon, J.R. Miller explores the misunderstood virtue of meekness, highlighting its true nature as demonstrated by Jesus Christ. He challenges the worldly view that meekness is weakness and reveals it as a powerful expression of Christian character marked by gentleness and patience. Listeners are encouraged to embrace meekness as a path to inheriting the blessings promised by God.
Text
"Blessed are the meek — for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5
Meekness is not a popular quality. The world calls it a cowardly spirit — which leads a man . . .
to remain quiet under insult,
to endure a wrong without resentment,
to be treated unkindly —
and then to give kindness in return.
Men of the world say that this disposition is unmanly, that it shows weakness, cowardice, a lack of courage.
So it might be, if we went to the world for our model of manliness. But we have a truer, a diviner example for our pattern of manliness, than any that this world has produced. Jesus Christ was the only perfect man that ever lived on the earth, and meekness was one of the noblest qualities of His character. He was . . .
gentle in disposition,
not easily provoked,
patient under wrong,
silent under reproach.
"When they hurled their insults at Him — He did not retaliate; when He suffered — He made no threats." Possessing all power — He never lifted a finger to avenge a personal injury. He answered all man\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Definition and worldly perception of meekness
- Common misconceptions about meekness as weakness
- Contrast between worldly and biblical views
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II
- Jesus Christ as the perfect example of meekness
- Characteristics of Christ's meekness: gentleness, patience, silence under reproach
- Christ’s refusal to retaliate despite having power
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III
- The true strength found in meekness
- Blessings promised to the meek
- Call to emulate Christ’s meekness in daily life
Key Quotes
“Meekness is not a popular quality. The world calls it a cowardly spirit.” — J.R. Miller
“Jesus Christ was the only perfect man that ever lived on the earth, and meekness was one of the noblest qualities of His character.” — J.R. Miller
“When they hurled their insults at Him — He did not retaliate; when He suffered — He made no threats.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Respond to insults and wrongs with patience and kindness rather than anger.
- Seek to imitate Jesus’ gentle and humble spirit in everyday interactions.
- Remember that meekness is a strength that leads to spiritual blessing and inheritance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does meekness mean in a biblical context?
Meekness is a gentle, patient, and humble spirit that does not retaliate or seek revenge, reflecting the character of Jesus Christ.
Is meekness a sign of weakness?
No, meekness is often misunderstood as weakness, but it is actually a noble strength demonstrated by self-control and forgiveness.
Why is Jesus considered the perfect example of meekness?
Jesus showed meekness by being gentle, patient, and silent under insult, never retaliating even though He had the power to do so.
What blessing is promised to the meek?
According to Matthew 5:5, the meek shall inherit the earth.
How can I cultivate meekness in my life?
By following Christ’s example of gentleness, patience, and responding to wrongs without resentment or retaliation.