Sermon Preview for August 23rd

August 23, 2026 - Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Preacher:  Rev. Anne J. Scalfaro

Sermon Title:   Gentleness is Tough                                   

Fourth Sermon in Cultivating the Fruit of Gentleness

Part of Abide & Grow: Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit

Sermon Blurb:

Gentleness is tough (hard for us). How do we understand and use the Fruit of Gentleness in situations that demand moral clarity and courage and when we know we are facing an uphill climb? As we’ve learned this year, there is not a “one size fits all” approach when it comes to how the Fruit of the Spirit flow through us and work in our lives and in the world. There are times we need to have a gentle touch in how we approach a conversation or situation and there are other times we need to be clear, firm, and unwavering with a touch of gentleness. 

Gentleness is tough (resilient). Gentleness, in its softness and flexibility, withstands a lot and helps us become tougher too. Join us on this final week as we explore the Fruit of the Spirit of Gentleness as Pauls encourages us to “let our gentleness be known to everyone.” 

Scriptures:  

Titus 3:1-9

1 Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone. 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 6 This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 The saying is sure. I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone. 9 But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.

Philippians 4:5-7

5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.