Episode 27 – Gentleness: Power Under Grace

Gentleness gets a bad reputation. It is often mistaken for passivity, timidity, or just being overly nice. In this episode, Brian Myers and Jenn Stiles Williams are joined by Rev. Will Newton to reclaim what Scripture actually teaches: gentleness as power under grace and strength directed by love toward restoration. From Psalm 23 to Matthew 18, they trace the biblical vision of the gentle shepherd, explore how gentleness disarms shame and fear, and offer practical norms for cultivating this often misunderstood fruit of the Spirit in our homes, churches, and public life. Show Notes 00:30 — Gentleness introduced: strength, not weakness 02:22 — Why gentleness is misunderstood today 08:01 — A biblical vision of gentle power 10:55 — Gentleness vs. mere politeness 17:31 — How gentleness disarms shame and fear 27:00 — Practical norms for cultivating gentleness For more information on the year-long Awaken to Grace series, visit awakentograce.org. Produced by Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. Original music by the Institute for Modern Worship.