Book SummaryGentle and Lowly, by Dane Ortlund

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Gentle and Lowly

Delving into the core nature and inherent tendencies that define Jesus.

This section of the text explores the core attributes of Jesus, which are defined by his gentle and humble disposition. The book corrects widespread misunderstandings by portraying a Savior characterized not by severity and condemnation, but by an innate inclination to draw near to those in pain and error.

Christ's heart is characterized by a disposition that is both tender and humble, free from any form of sternness or harshness.

Erase the notion that Jesus is distant, harsh, or easily irritated. Ortlund reveals the surprising blend of gentleness and humility at the heart of Christ's character, which stands in stark contrast to the conventional human ideas of power and dominance.

Christ delights in offering assistance to those burdened by their sins and sorrows.

Ortlund, drawing on the insights of the Puritan theologian, challenges the misconception that Christ approaches sinners with reluctance or disgust. The Christ who reigns in heaven continues to embody the compassionate nature that led him to heal the afflicted, welcome the marginalized, and share meals with tax collectors. Our imperfections do not drive Him to distance Himself; on the contrary, His holiness and purity intensify His inclination to draw near to us, offering restoration and rejuvenation. He feels profound happiness and solace when he bestows kindness and understanding, by pardoning, easing burdens, and offering solace to his adherents. Feel the soothing warmth while you lay your hands on the chest of the risen Savior, perceiving the strong pulse of His compassionate heart, full of understanding for you! Dane Ortlund communicates that Christ's deep understanding and shared feelings for our weaknesses are consistent with the teachings found within the scriptural passages of Hebrews.

The defining trait of Christ is His disposition, which is characterized by gentleness and humility.

Understanding the core attributes of Christ, characterized by His gentleness and lowliness, is crucial. Ortlund encourages us to reflect on the words of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 11:29. My nature is characterized by a disposition of humility and a gentle spirit. In the remarkable instance when Jesus discloses the essence of His character, our view of Him should be profoundly altered. Our relationship with Him goes beyond merely believing in His sacrifice or admiring His teachings; it is deeply anchored in the recognition that He delights in drawing near to us, particularly in our moments of greatest vulnerability. Ortlund emphasizes that such a trait is fundamentally reflective of his character.

Christ's actions mirror his inherent disposition,...

Gentle and Lowly Summary The connection that intimately links Christ's heart with the Holy Spirit.

This section of the conversation explores the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in awakening the core of Christ's tenderheartedness for believers. The Spirit functions not merely as a detached power but also intimately infuses our innermost self with the gentle love of Christ, as revealed in sacred texts.

The Spirit guarantees that followers deeply perceive the compassionate nature of Christ.

Ortlund reminds us that while sound doctrine about Christ is essential, it's the Holy Spirit who takes those truths and turns them into a living, breathing experience. The core of Christ's character might be merely acknowledged intellectually rather than wholly embraced, were it not for the Spirit's transformative influence.

Christ's compassionate nature becomes a reality that personally touches and transforms us through the Spirit's work.

The Spirit's function is to convert comprehension into profound spiritual insight. Hearing your father declare his love for you is one thing; believing him is another, but when he envelops you in a warm hug, the truth of his affection becomes incontestable. Feeling rather than merely hearing marks the distinction....

Gentle and Lowly Summary The Son is the recipient of the Father's gentle affection.

Ortlund successfully challenges the mistaken belief that the Father lacks the Son's close compassion and merciful nature. The Father likewise harbors profound empathy, mirroring a concern for sinners that is as gentle as the compassion of Jesus.

The Father's core is similarly marked by mercy, grace, and compassion, mirroring the Son's attributes.

The author emphasizes the harmonious relationship of the Father and the Son, demonstrating that they are not representatives of opposing concepts such as condemnation and compassion. They possess a profound affection for individuals who err.

The Father is frequently depicted as embodying unwavering and abundant love.

In his book, Ortlund emphasizes that the apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 1:3, demonstrates a profound understanding of the divine character by describing God as a Father of compassion. This unveils the essential character of the Divine: an unbounded wellspring of compassion and tenderness, akin to a Parent who delights in lavishing their children with ceaseless affection. Ortlund describes the intrinsic nature of God as one of deep compassion and forgiveness, a...

Gentle and Lowly Summary The difference in nature between the divine heart and the human heart is considerable.

In this section, Ortlund explores the natural tendencies of people, highlighting our obliviousness to the freely bestowed divine grace and our persistent attempts to earn His favor by means of personal accomplishments.

People often tend to form a connection that is based on adherence to spiritual regulations and personal conduct.

Ortlund describes the human predicament as one burdened by an inherent belief that adherence to moral standards and personal righteousness are what garner favor from the divine. This disposition, he clarifies, goes deeper than just external actions to profoundly shape our inner desires, ambitions, and interactions with others.

We often attempt to gain divine approval through adherence to self-imposed ethical standards and the execution of obligatory deeds.

Ortlund likens this to a twelve-year-old boy who, despite living in a loving home, seeks to validate his place in the family by fabricating a birth certificate, diligently tidying up the kitchen, and carefully mimicking his parents' behaviors. We...

Gentle and Lowly Summary The divine's kindness is characterized by an unending sense of joy and satisfaction.

The divine plan culminates in highlighting and taking joy in the limitless mercy and benevolence granted to His followers as history culminates.

The universe was fashioned to act as a channel through which the Son could manifest His profound empathy and benevolence.

Dane Ortlund, drawing from the insights of Jonathan Edwards, unveils the profound truth that the world's creation was less about human benefit and more about showcasing the vastness of love that is projected from the heart of God's Son. Creation provided the backdrop for Christ to showcase His deep humility, infinite love, and abundant grace, thereby unveiling the grandeur and brilliance of His character in a way that forever glorifies God.

The Son's heart was propelled by an intense desire to unleash its limitless compassion.

Ortlund portrays Christ as having an endless desire to lavish His love and kindness upon those He has chosen. His compassion was akin to an endless river,...