Advance Learner Study lesson for February

"The Power of Forbearance: A Mark of Spiritual Maturity"

Key Passages:

• Ephesians 4:2 – "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love."
• Colossians 3:13 – "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."
• Proverbs 19:11 – "The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression."

Lessons Areas and Breakdown

1. Defining Forbearance in the Bible

• Scriptural Basis: Ephesians 4:2 - "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love."
• Explanation: The word "forbearance" means to patiently endure and restrain oneself, especially when dealing with difficult people or circumstances. It is linked with humility, meekness, and longsuffering.
• Application: True forbearance is rooted in love. It requires us to put aside personal grievances and respond to others with grace rather than retaliation.

2. God’s Forbearance Toward Us

• Scriptural Basis: Romans 2:4 - "Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?"
• Explanation: God demonstrates forbearance by withholding judgment and showing patience toward sinners. His longsuffering gives people the opportunity to repent.
• Application: As recipients of God’s forbearance, we are called to extend the same patience and grace to others, reflecting His character in our interactions.

3. Forbearance in Our Relationships

• Scriptural Basis: Colossians 3:13 - "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."
• Explanation: Forbearance is closely connected with forgiveness. It requires us to endure offenses and extend grace, just as Christ has forgiven us.
• Application: Practicing forbearance means choosing to overlook minor offenses, not holding grudges, and seeking reconciliation instead of division.

4. Forbearance in Trials and Suffering

• Scriptural Basis: James 1:2-4 - "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
• Explanation: Forbearance also applies to how we endure hardships. Trials test our faith, but responding with patience allows us to grow in spiritual maturity.
• Application: Instead of complaining or giving up in difficult times, we should see trials as opportunities to develop godly character.

5. Forbearance as a Witness to the World

• Scriptural Basis: 1 Peter 2:20-23 - "For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps."
• Explanation: Jesus exemplified forbearance when He endured suffering without retaliation. Our ability to endure mistreatment with patience serves as a powerful testimony to unbelievers.
• Application: When we respond to mistreatment with grace and peace, we reflect Christ’s love and demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel.

Practical Applications and Reflections

Examine Your Heart – Are there people or situations where you struggle to show forbearance? Ask God to give you patience and grace in dealing with them.

Respond with Grace – Instead of reacting in anger when offended, practice self-restraint and seek peaceful resolution.

Endure Difficulties in Faith – Trust that God is using trials to strengthen your character and increase your dependence on Him.

Be Slow to Anger – Follow Proverbs 19:11 and choose to overlook minor offenses rather than holding onto resentment.

In Summary

Forbearance is a mark of spiritual maturity that requires humility, love, and trust in God’s timing and justice. As we develop this virtue, we reflect God’s character and demonstrate the power of Christ at work within us. By showing patience in relationships, endurance in trials, and grace under pressure, we become a light to the world and a true reflection of Jesus Christ.

Discussion Questions:

How does God’s forbearance toward us serve as an example of how we should treat others?

What are some practical ways to cultivate forbearance in our daily interactions?

How can forbearance be a tool for evangelism and demonstrating Christ’s love?

Your Homework:

Reflect on a recent situation where you struggled with forbearance. Read James 1:2-4 and write down ways you can respond differently next time, choosing patience and grace instead of frustration or retaliation.