Dennis R. Wiles

First Baptist Arlington

July 19, 2026

2026: Flourishing Together:

Transformed on The Jesus Way

Gospel Guide: John

SUMMER 2026: Making a Difference

May 31, 2026 – August 1, 2026

This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

-Jesus (John 15:8)

Gentleness: Ruth

Ruth 1

Theme for 2026: Flourishing Together: Transformed on The Jesus Way

Theme for Summer 2026: Making a Difference

DIFFERENCE MAKERS: In order for us to “make a difference” in our world, we have to become difference makers!

INTENTIONAL DISCIPLESHIP: God’s Spirit is at work in us and through us, in partnership with us, to accomplish His Kingdom’s mission.

GENTLENESS: Gentleness or meekness expresses interior strength under Holy Spirit control. Far from timidity, it is the poised disposition that gladly submits to God’s will and channels power for another’s good. It therefore belongs to the cluster of virtues labeled “the fruit of the Spirit” standing in needed contrast to human anger, rivalry, and self-assertion.

INCARNATION: God’s decision to personally visit planet earth through the Person of His Son is an example of His gentleness!

I am gentle and humble in heart.

-Jesus (Matthew 11:29)

This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”

-Matthew 21:4-5

JESUS: Jesus demonstrated His gentleness in His exchange with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well (John 4).

STRENGTH: The attitude and ensuing actions associated with gentleness actually emerge from an inner strength made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

SUBMISSION: Gentleness manifests itself in the absolute submission to the will of God.

SERVICE: Gentleness seeks the good of others and is the antithesis of self-centered, anger-laced behavior.