2. Introduction As a Christian, we must put of the old man of sin (short-tempered, hateful and vengeful) and put on Christ (longsuffering, kind, and forgiving) Rom. 6:3-6; Eph. 4:31-32 Longsuffering is one of the fruits of the Spirit that we must live by if we are going to be pleasing to God (Gal. 5:16, 19-23). In this lesson, we will define the term, show God’s longsuffering with man, and specific areas where we must demonstrate it to others.

3. Definition of Longsuffering Long-Tempered (makrothumia: makro, “long”; thumos, “wrath, temper”). “Longsuffering is that quality of self restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish; it is the opposite of anger, and is associated with mercy. Patience is the quality that does not surrender to circumstances or succumb under trial; it is the opposite of despondency, and is associated with hope” (Vine 377).

4. God’s Longsuffering towards Man Longsuffering is part of God’s character but he will eventually punish sin (Exodus 34:6-7). It is a warning to sinners to not harden their hearts (Gen. 6:7; 1 Pet. 3:20; 2 Pet. 3:3-7). It is an opportunity for people to repent. (2 Peter 3:8-9; Romans 2:4) It is meant for our salvation so that we will not die in our sins and be an example for others. (2 Pet. 3:15; 1 Tim. 1:15-16)

5. We Must be Longsuffering to Others Love suffers long to all people which may include a rebuke of their sins (1 Corinthians 13:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:14) Don’t pay back evil for evil- practice Golden Rule (1 Thess. 5:15; Rom. 12:17-19; Matt. 7:12) Teaching alien sinners- Be kind, patient, & willing to suffer for Christ (2 Timothy 2:24-26; 4:2) Work/School- you may be wronged by authority or have to deal with evil (1 Pet. 2:18-20).

6. We Must be Longsuffering to Others Home Dealing with Conflict and Disciplining our Children (Col. 3:18-21; Eph. 6:4). Christians Resolving issues with the right attitude so there will be unity (Eph. 4:1-6, 31-32). If you are sinned against- Forgive if they repent (Luke 17:3-4) If you don’t forgive others when they repent, God will not forgive your sins (Mt. 6:14-15).

7. Conclusion How do you react when you suffer wrong or aren’t treated right? Are you short tempered or long tempered with them? Are your words hateful and condemning or do you speak the truth in love so that they might repent (Eph. 4:15)? Are you able to pray for and do good to them or are you filled with bitterness and hold grudges against them (Matt. 5:44)?

8. Conclusion Just like God was longsuffering towards Noah’s wicked generation, He is patient with you so that you might repent & not die in our sins. (2 Peter 3:9; Acts 17:30-31) But they refused God’s message of mercy and drowned in the flood (Gen. 7:23; 1 Pt. 3:20). As Noah and his family were saved through the water, we are saved by being baptized in water in the name of Christ (1 Pt. 3:21). The day of the Lord is coming, are you ready?