Comments on Patience
Chrēstotēs, translated as "kindness" (or "gentleness" in the Authorized Version), is a term exclusively found in the New Testament within the letters of Paul. When applied to God, this term captures his gracious attitude and actions towards sinners. God's kindness, characterized by forbearance and patience, is aimed at prompting sinners towards repentance (Romans 2:4). Salvation itself stands as a tangible demonstration of God's kindness and his overarching "love for [hu]mankind" (Titus 3:4, NASB). Moreover, in the person of Jesus Christ, the supreme act of God's kindness towards humanity finds its ultimate revelation (Ephesians 2:7).As individuals who have personally encountered the transformative kindness of God's salvation through Christ, believers are exhorted to adorn themselves with kindness, alongside other virtuous qualities (Colossians 3:12). Additionally, the apostle Paul, in Ephesians 4:32 (RSV), implores believers to "be kind to one another," underscoring the relational imperative of kindness within the Christian community. Kindness in 1 Corinthians 13:4, emerges as an indispensable component of love. Like love, kindness is not merely an abstract concept but manifests itself through tangible actions. Those who embody kindness are called to emulate God's treatment of them (Ephesians 4:32). By doing so, they foster a reciprocal dynamic grounded in divine love and grace. Paul's words echo the teachings of Jesus as evidenced in Luke 6:35, where believers are challenged to extend kindness even to those who may be deemed unworthy or adversarial.
Discussion Questions
- What does kindness mean to you personally? How do you define it in your own words?
- In what ways do you see kindness demonstrated in your community or in the world around you? Can you share any examples?
- Reflecting on the Bible verses mentioned (Romans 2:4, Titus 3:4, Ephesians 2:7, Colossians 3:12, Ephesians 4:32, 1 Corinthians 13:4, Luke 6:35), how do these passages illustrate the importance of kindness in Christian teachings?
- How does the concept of kindness relate to other virtues, such as love, forgiveness, and humility? Can you think of any connections or overlaps?
- Why do you think kindness is often described as an essential aspect of Christian character? How does it reflect God's nature?
- In what practical ways can individuals demonstrate kindness in their daily lives, both within and outside of their faith communities?
- How do you think practicing kindness can impact relationships within families, friendships, schools, workplaces, and society as a whole?
- What challenges or barriers might people encounter when striving to be kind? How can these challenges be addressed or overcome?
- Have you ever experienced the transformative power of kindness in your own life, either as the giver or the recipient? If comfortable, can you share your experience?
- As a group, discuss ways in which you can collectively promote kindness and create a culture of compassion and empathy in your community.
I encourage you to share this article with your family members and friends. Have a wonderful day!
In Christ,
Wilfred Graves Jr.
www.wilfredgraves.org
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