Gentleness

The Old Testament describes gentleness as an attitude of humility or bending low (2 Samuel 22:36, King James Version; compare Psalm 18:35, King James Version). “Gentle” or “gently” can mean courteous and unpretentious (Proverbs 15:4), quiet and tender (Deuteronomy 32:2; Isaiah 8:6), or soft and lenient (2 Samuel 18:5; Job 15:11).

In the New Testament, several words are translated “gentleness,” “gentle,” or “gently.” Different meanings include

mildness, meekness, forbearance (Matthew 11:29; 1 Corinthians 4:21; 2 Corinthians 10:1; Galatians 5:23; 1 Timothy 6:11; 1 Peter 3:4, 15), or a courteous and unassuming attitude (2 Timothy 2:25);

kindness expressed toward others (1 Thessalonians 2:7; 2 Timothy 2:24, King James Version); and

fitting, fair, or appropriate in various situations (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 3:2; 1 Peter 2:18).

Church leaders and other believers are instructed to deal gently with those who make mistakes (Galatians 6:1), oppose the faith (2 Timothy 2:25), or are ignorant and misguided (Hebrews 5:2).