THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

Last Sunday we looked at a well-known passage on “THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT” (Gal. 5:22-23).  When Christians “walk in the Spirit,” God’s life flows out of us- keeping us free to serve Him (Gal. 5:1, 16-18, 22-23, John 10:10; 15:5, Rom. 5:5, etc.).  “Fruit” here is singular showing us these nine graces reflect who Christ is.  The idea here is to the same extent that there is love, there will be self-control… (2 Cor. 3:18; Phil. 1:9, 21; 3:12, etc.).    

Holy, agapē, “love” is listed first indicating it is the most comprehensive of these characteristics (Gal. 5:6, 13-14; Matt.22:35-40; Deut. 6:4-5; Lev. 19:18; 1 Cor. 13, etc.)  In fact, Galatians 5:22 could also be written with a colon as, “…love:  joy, peace…”.   

The living fruit of God cannot be manufactured by the flesh, but comes from abiding in Christ: 

· “Joy” unspeakable- fullness of life (John 15:11; Ps. 16:11, etc.) 

· “Peace” in spite of one’s circumstances (Phil 4:7, etc.).   

· “Patience” that entertains no thought of retaliation (2 Cor. 6:6, etc.) 

· “Kindness” benevolence in action (Eph. 2:7, etc.) 

· “Goodness” reflecting purity and uprightness of heart (Rom. 2:4, etc.).   

· “Faithfulness” being trustworthy like God (e.g. Luke 16:10-12),  

· “Gentleness” or meekness exercising the right use of authority and power (Matt. 11:29, etc.)  

· And “self-control” or temperance showing self-mastery from God’s power within (e.g. Gal. 5:19-21a; Acts 24:25; 2 Pet. 1:6, etc.).    

Only the Holy Spirit can “put to death the deeds” of the flesh; the law is to no avail (Gal. 5:18b, 23b, Rom. 8:13b, etc.)  Our passions must therefore be directed to God, who saved us by grace.  His goodness, His grace is the means by which we can live out our true identity in Christ — having a greater love for Him than sin (Gal. 2:20; 6:14; Rom. 8:13b, Rom. 6:11, etc.).