J - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT-GENTLENESS - 10

J – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 10

GENTLENESS

How we sometimes stomp through life regardless of the effect we might be having on those with whom we have to do.  If we are living in the Spirit, gentleness is a temperament we need to cultivate.  Gentleness will show in our actions and speech toward others.

Matthew Henry, a well-known commentator, describes gentleness in this way:  Gentleness is “such a sweetness of temper, and especially towards our inferiors, as disposes us to be affable and courteous, and easy to be entreated when any have wronged us…”

Adam Clark, another commentator, describes gentleness (or meekness as stated in King James Version) as “Mildness indulgence toward the weak and erring, patient suffering of injuries without feeling a spirit of revenge, an even balance of all tempers and passions, the entire opposite to anger.”

As we think of a gentle spirit, we notice the contrast as Paul speaks to the Corinthians in 1Cor.4:21.  It had been needful for Paul to reprimand the Corinthian congregation for allowing sin to remain within their midst.  They well knew that of which he spoke.  Even in an instance of confronting someone, gentleness is important.  Gal.6:1

Gentleness is important if we are having a discussion with someone who believes in a false doctrine.  If we come at them with hobnail boots, they will immediately set up a defense.  Our purpose is not to win an argument.  Not only do we need humility but also gentleness.  2 Tim.2:25  Our purpose is not to show our knowledge and understanding but to explain the Truth in hopes of winning a soul for Jesus.  1 Pet.3:15

As Zechariah was prophesying the coming of Jesus in the Triumphal Entry, he describes Him as “gentle”.  Matt.21:5   This is a quote from Zech.9:9.  Jesus describes Himself as gentle.  Matt.11:29   Paul mentions the gentleness of Christ in 2 Cor.10:1.   As followers of Christ, should we not develop this gentleness of Jesus?  Paul describes this gentleness so well to the Thessalonians.  1 Thess.2:7

Gentleness is an outward showing toward others of the spirit of our heart.  As part of the fruit of the Spirit, gentleness springs forth from the love, understanding, and compassion that we have for others.  Gentleness goes a long way in making peace.  It is associated with wisdom.  Jam.3:13   It is easy for a person who “knows” or is “wise” to be very impatient with someone who may not understand.  As Christians we are told to walk worthy of our calling in Christ Jesus.  This involves humility and gentleness as well as tolerance and patience.  All of these go hand in hand.  Eph.4:1,2   Paul not only expresses this to the Ephesians but also to the Colossians.  Col.3:12

We are to flee from those snares into which the love of money causes us to fall.  It is much more profitable to pursue gentleness along with other attributes as perseverance, righteousness, godliness, faith, and love.  1 Tim.6:11   The importance of gentleness is made of less significance so many times.  Yet, look at the number of times it is listed along with faith and love and other attributes.  Would we consider those significant?  The answer would probably be of extreme importance.

As James describes wisdom from above, gentleness is included.  Jam.3:17  Paul tells Titus to remind Christians not to malign or speak in an injurious way against anyone but to be peaceable and gentle.  We are to show consideration for all men.  Tit.3:2   Paul continues to describe the way they once were.  Gentleness is a part of our new way of life.  The world feels no need to be gentle and considerate of others.  It may happen when things are going well; however, when being opposed, the normal tendency is to strike out against another and even malign them.  This would not be a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

As Paul describes someone to be chosen as an overseer, he mentions the importance of gentleness rather than being a quarrelsome and antagonistic person.  1 Tim.3:3  If we are trying to be like Jesus, who is gentle, what will help us develop gentleness?

Gentleness does not push “self” forward to an important position.  Jesus used a child to illustrate this point.  Mk.9:35-37   A little child can touch a heart with his innocence and trust.  He needs to be treated with gentleness.  We don’t need to be arrogant as we deal with someone, but gentle in our speech and actions. 

If we are submissive to one another, it will be easier to be gentle.  Eph.5:21   If we aren’t the “most important person in the world”—in other words “self”, it will become easier to be gentle to others.  Phil.2:3,4   Our example before the world lasts a long time.  It becomes an example of a Christian, the church, and even makes the world look at Jesus in a different light.

May our spirit be gentle as we reflect the spirit of Christ.  May it be known to all men.  Phil.4:5

I-FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT-9

I – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 9

FAITHFULNESS

To be faithful is to be trustworthy, reliable, dependable.  This is a trait that is to be desired and yet is absent in so many.  We need to be dependable in what we say we will do and  carry through with it.  We need to be trustworthy in our speech in relaying facts concerning the Word as well as material things.  Too often we say that we forgot to do something we said we would do or that we had stated something wrong without proper study or investigating.  Our God is not like that.

God is a faithful God.  1 Cor.1:9   We can trust His Word.  We can depend upon Him in times that are good and times of difficulty.  None could match His reliability.  2 Cor.1:18   We may meet many kinds of temptations and problems but God is faithful and will be with us and do what He deems is right for us if we are following in His path.  1 Pet.4:19   We have such a blessing that God is faithful to forgive us when we confess our sins.   IJhn.1:9   God even helps us in our temptations.  He knows us better than we know ourselves.  1 Cor.10:13   A statement in Lamentations has been put to song.  Lam.3:23

Not only can we trust in a faithful God but we have a faithful Savior in His Son.  Jesus became a man that He might offer His life for our salvation.  Jesus became our High Priest to offer that one sacrifice that would be forever.  Heb.2:17   Our hope rests in Christ and we are to hold fast to that confession of our belief in Him for He is faithful in His promise to us.  Heb.10:23   In Revelation Christ is called the “Faithful Witness”.  Rev.1:5

Words of the Scripture are faithful.  1 Tim.1:15   Paul calls the Word faithful in Tit.1:9.   As we discipline ourselves for godliness, Paul relates this as a trustworthy or faithful statement that should be accepted.  1 Tim.4:8,9   Titus is told that to do good deeds is profitable and also a faithful statement.  Tit.3:8   Another faithful statement tells us that if we die with Him (die to self), we shall live with Him.  What a blessed promise this is to our life.  2 Tim.2:11  

With such a faithful Lord and God, can we be found faithful?  To be found faithful, we must have faith.  Heb.11:6   This chapter follows with a list of faithful ones of God.  How do we know they had faith?  We know by faithfulness shown in the circumstances in which they found themselves.  This faith is defined in Heb.11:1.  When we see, faith is no longer needed.  Jhn.20:29   The followers of Jesus did have faith in His power and ability to perform miracles.  Perhaps our faith could be expressed in the manner in which Peter expressed it.  1 Pet.1:8   Because of this faith in Jesus, our lives show faithfulness.

Our faith was the beginning of our salvation.  Rom.5:1; Acts 20:21   This faith in Jesus caused us to proceed with obedience to his commands.  Mk.16:16; Col.2:12; Rom.1:5   As we become Christians, Christ dwells in our hearts through faith.  Eph.3:17   This faith does not come for just one time.  We are told to continue in our faith.  Col.1:23   In fact our faith is to grow or to enlarge as some versions translate.  2 Thess.1:3.  

Some allow their faith to be shipwrecked.  1 Tim.1:19   Faithfulness cannot be shown when our faith is not sincere.  1 Tim.1:5   Faith is abandoned when false doctrine is received.  1 Tim.4:1   The love of money has also caused many to wander from faith.  They fall into many destructive desires.  1 Tim.6:9,10   For this reason Paul told Timothy to fight the good fight of faith.  1 Tim.6:12   Sometimes it becomes a fight but faith is part of the armor of a Christian.  Eph.6:16   As Satan’s arrows are aimed at us, a strong faith will shield us from them..  Our faith can be tested but when we stand strong in faithfulness we will strengthen and develop our perseverance.  Jam.1:3  

Faith causes action in faithfulness.  Our faith becomes apparent in our work for the Lord.  1 Thess.1:3; Jam.2:14   The faithfulness that we show in the Lord’s work will be trustworthy and dependable.  Jam.2:15,16   James is not saying that a person can be saved by his works but our faith is visible because of what we do.  Jam.2:18   A person can claim to have great faith but do nothing.  So much of the fruit of the Spirit demands action.  So it is with faithfulness.  It is necessary to have faith in order to be faithful.  It is also necessary to have something to show our faith.  Jam.2:26

Our faithfulness is important to Jesus.  He remonstrated the Pharisees for their lack of faithfulness in Matt.23:23   We can be guilty of doing the right things for the wrong reasons or with the wrong attitudes. 

May we persevere in keeping the commandments of God, may we hold fast to our faith in Jesus, and may we have deeds of faithfulness that follow us.  Rev.14:12,13   As we look forward to our hope in Christ, may we be faithful until death or the coming of our Lord.  Rev.2:10

H - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT-Goodness - 8

H – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 8

GOODNESS

Again we come to the dilemma of differentiating between kindness and goodness.  It seems that in many cases kindness is a quality of the temperament.  Goodness defines and puts kindness in action.  The word, “goodness”, is used in various aspects.  Word Studies by Vine presents these in particular:  upright, righteous, expresses itself in deeds, morally honorable and pleasing to God, beneficial, and to do good to the benefit of another.  An attempt will be made to follow these through the Scriptures.

To begin we recognize that God is good.  Ps.86:5; Ps. 106:1   We experience the goodness of God as we praise Him and thank Him for His many blessings that He has bestowed upon us.  The Israelites realized this in 1 Kgs.8:66   All that God made in the beginning was “good”.  Gen.1:31  

As Paul stresses the fact that we all have sinned, he quotes from Ps.14:1 in Rom.3:12.  Intrinsically, none of us are good without the blood of Christ that covers us as we become Christians.  Rom.15:14   Now as followers of Christ, we bear the fruit of Light, which is Christ.  Eph.5:8-10  

As we refuse to be conformed to the world, we prove what the will of God is by following after that which is good.  Rom.12:2   In fact, we must cling or hold fast to that which is good.  Rom.12:9   Otherwise we may loose it.

As Jesus was explaining His healing on the Sabbath, He explained that those who did good deeds would see life everlasting.  Jhn.5:29   What we do shows our heart.  Eph.4:28   It is so easy to do good to our friends and those that return the good.  This is not our instruction as Christians.  Lk.6:33   Even if someone hates us, we still do good.  Lk.6:27

Our heart changes as we follow Christ.  The parable of the soil explains the condition of our heart.  As formally mentioned, we must cling to the Word and to what is good or the devil can take it out of our hearts.  Lk.8:12   Some are overjoyed when they become Christians.  Wait awhile and the desires of the world takes over their heart and soon they have gone back to the world.  Lk.8:13   Life brings so many worries and temptations that it may be difficult to focus on the promises of our Lord.  Phil.4:6,7   We attempt to take care of everything ourselves.  We cease to grow and the good we had once attained is choked.  Lk.8:14   When we hold fast with our focus on the Word, then our hearts will take root and grow and we can bear fruit and become profitable for our Lord.  Lk.8:15

As we do good, it is important to remember that we are doing it for the Lord and not for men.  It is for the Lord’s glory and not for ours.  1 Cor.10:31   Sometimes the good we do may not be appreciated.  Complaints may ensue.  Eph.6:8; Col.3:23   Even though people speak erroneously of us, by doing good, that may be stilled.  1 Pet.2:15   We must never retaliate but do good for one another and for ALL.  1 Thess.5:15   Most of the time if we are doing good with a good heart, we need not fear, but even if we are, don’t be troubled or fear intimidation.  We will be blessed.  1 Pet.3:13,14

As human beings, we are imitators.  Who do we imitate?  With media so prolific in our culture today, we see and hear too many of the world and then it becomes natural to imitate them.  This is unspiritual and unprofitable for us.  3 Jhn.11   If we catch ourselves imitating the world, focus on Scripture, put your heart into messages and classes at church, fellowship with Christians.  Pray.  1 Pet.3:11

If we busy ourselves with doing good in service for others, we won’t have time to delve into worldly distractions.  Gal.6:10; Col.4:5   Hebrews speaks of doing good and sharing as a sacrifice.  Heb.13:16   Service to others does require us to give up our time for self, leave our comfort zone, and even share materially and financially.  Paul instructs Timothy in this respect.  1 Tim.6:18

Do we have difficulty finding something “good” to do for someone else?  Any time we see someone performing a service for someone, are our eyes and minds open to see how we could help?  Can we see the needs of others?  Do we try?  We can be so blind and sometimes just sit and watch someone doing good and never offer to lift a hand to help them.

The above are not the only ways of doing good.  Does our compassion for others help us see their need of comfort or encouragement or maybe just noticing that they exist and are friendless.  A visit, a phone call, cards are all a part of doing good. 

Once we start thinking of others, many ways of service will come to mind  We know Jesus went about doing good.  Acts 10:38   Who would be better to imitate than our Lord?

May we add goodness to our lives by doing good to all.  Eccl.3:12; Ps.34:14

G - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT-KINDNESS-7

G– FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 7

KINDNESS

In looking at the next two qualities of the Spirit, some confusion exists, for at the first appearance, they seem much the same.  These two are kindness and goodness.  Because of being side by side in a list and having two different Greek words, a difference has to exist even though in the definition of both, the other is used.

God is a kind God.  Isa.54:8   David wanted to show the kindness of God to someone that was left in the house of Saul.  2 Sam.9:3   David took Jonathan’s crippled son to live and eat at the king’s table as long as he should live.  A quality of kindness is followed by action.  2 Sam.2:6   God showed kindness to Joseph even though he was in prison.  Gen.39:21   God revealed His kindness to those in slavery by allowing the Israelites to return from Babylon to rebuild the house of God.  Ezra 9:9   There is no doubt that we have a kind God.

God is kind to us but it is up to us to continue in His kindness.  Rom.11:22   God’s kindness is shown through Christ as He gives us the riches of His grace.  Eph.2:7   We are saved by the kindness of God through Christ.  Titus 3:4,5   The new clothes we put on as Christians include kindness.  Col.3:12

In turn, we as Christians must follow suit and show kindness to others.  A glance at various versions may help our understanding.  King James uses the word, “gentleness”.  Brotherly kindness is used in 2 Pet.1:7.  Kindhearted is another term often used.  Kindness is a quality that is shown outwardly.  Love was the first quality discussed and to be sincerely kind requires love; thus, lovingkindness is used.

A criteria by which we may judge ourselves:  How do we leave another person feeling after our encounter with them?  Friendliness is an important part of kindness.  A kind person leaves another with the feeling that they are wanted.  This does away with “cliques” within a group of people whether it is in a congregation, study group, or group of any kind.  Christians show kindness in a way that does not exclude any.  Jesus had His own special group but He went among those of the world to show kindness and win their souls.  We must be kind to all.  2 Tim.2:24

Gentleness was a word used for kindness.  What a difference this quality makes in a family or a congregation.  Gentleness is necessary for a spirit of unity.  Gal.5:15   How tragic when Christians show this attitude!  A gentle nature does not show weakness.  Jesus was gentle but not weak.  Matt.11:29   Paul enjoined the Christians in Ephesus to have a gentle spirit.  Eph.4:2  Paul uses himself and his companions as examples of gentleness.  1 Thess.2:7  A gentle and quiet spirit is of great value to God.  1 Pet.3:4

A part of kindness is being tender-hearted.  Eph.4:32   Can we feel with another person.  Compassion for others is important.  This means so much to us when another person can come beside us with understanding.  Rom.12:15  

Kindness or gentleness is an important temperament.  Just previous to our text (Gal.5:22,23) Paul lists many sins of the world or of the flesh.  These things are in opposition to the Spirit.  As Christians, we live with the Spirit inside us.  We want to walk by the Spirit.  Gal.5:25   If we are walking by the Spirit, our temperament will be kind and gentle. 

We can stand firm –not for self but for the Truth—and still be gentle.  Too often we want to stand firm for our own ideas and desires.  This only causes conflict within ourselves and with others.  In 2 Corinthians Paul explains that he and his companions are working together with the Lord in many situations and urges them to do likewise.  In our attitudes and temperaments we can discredit the church and our Lord.  2 Cor.6:3   Kindness is one area that Paul mentions in 2 Cor.6:6.

Kindness is not only shown to our brothers in Christ but also to those who oppose us as Christians.  Any  temperament other than kindness, gentleness, politeness will not cause those in conflict to listen to the Truth.  The commentator, Barnes, gives this description:  mildness of temper, calmness of spirit, unruffled disposition, a disposition to treat all with refinement and politeness.  This is the effect of the Spirit on our heart if we are truly walking in the Spirit.  Since we now belong to Christ, those sinful passions that erode our dispositions have been crucified.  Gal.5:24

Job realized the lovingkindness of God in spite of all the hardships brought upon him.  Job 10:12   David recognized the lovingkindness of God in Ps.18:50.  Solomon in his wisdom recognized that kindness not only benefits others but it benefits the giver of kindness.  Prov.11:17   Jeremiah describes God’s lovingkindness as he quotes God in Jer.9:24.  Take note that as we attempt to grow in godliness, God is pleased as we exercise lovingkindness. 

Let us return to our original question:  How do we cause others to feel?  Our attitude, our demeanor, and our speech should show kindness and gentleness with love.  Prov.12:25

D - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT - 4

D – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 4

Love brings joy which is a deep gladness of the heart.  When we truly have love in our heart for God and others and have erased any ill-feelings we might have had, then true joy will bring greater fulfillment to our lives.  Christian joy is deeper than the world’s happiness.  Yes, we can be happy but true joy can come even in trouble, pain, and sadness.  As we look into the Scripture, we can see why this would be.

God has given us so much as we accepted His salvation.  Ps.51:12   Thankfulness for all these things brings us joy.  Discouragement does not bring strength but joy does.  Neh.8:10   As we read of the joy that David put in many of his psalms, our hearts should also reflect joy in our lives whatever the circumstance we may experience.  Ps.5:11; Ps.16:11; Ps.32:11  

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit that is a result of our life in Christ but it is active as we rejoice.  We are told to rejoice, not just when all is going well but always.  1 Thess.5:16   It is easy to rejoice in good times; however, James reminds us to rejoice even in trials.  Jam.1:2   Why?  Because we grow in our endurance for maybe more difficult times in the future.  Jam.1:3

Jesus was an example of joy in trials—severe trials.  Heb.12:2   No matter what happens in this life, we have an eternal future with our Lord to which we can look forward.  Jesus wanted us to experience the joy He had.  Jhn.15:10,11  

Our joy in the Lord is so great that words cannot express it.  1 Pet.1:8   The world rejoices in new “stuff”, higher position, popularity.  That gets old and the joy must be replaced with something else.  A Christian rejoices in the Lord.  Phil.3:1   Things of the world are minor compared to the glories of heaven.  This is where our hope is for which we rejoice.  Rom.12:12   This is a kind of joy that does not have to be replaced and no one can take it away.  Jhn.16:22   This joy is everlasting as sorrow is removed.  Isa.51:11   Even in time of great grief, the sorrow will be taken away and joy will come.  Ps.30:5

We can find joy if we earnestly strive to live within God’s will.  Ps.1:1,2   Joy is given to the man that is good in God’s sight.  Eccl.2:26   We do not live for things of this world but for righteousness that brings peace and in turn brings joy.  Rom.14:17  

So much encouragement and joy was felt by Paul as those he taught stood firm in the faith.  1 Thess.3:9   Paul considered the Philippians his joy and crown.  Phil.4:1   We not only bring joy to our Lord and even the angels, but to those who have labored for our salvation.  Lk.15:10; 1 Thess.2:19,20

We can allow our joy to be sabotaged. This can happen in many ways.  Perhaps we are reprimanded when we thought we were doing well.  Someone might talk against us.  We become discouraged and then allow ourselves to become angry or resentful.  This depletes our joy if our joy comes from our feelings rather than our hope in the Lord.  We may become discouraged with others and maybe even ourselves.

Paul was disappointed in himself at times.  Rom.7:15   Paul continues to discuss this weakness and conflict between the flesh and the spirit.  His decision is in Rom.8:37.  If we are following Christ, we need not become discouraged and let our joy in the Lord be sabotaged.

So many were persecuted and yet had joy.  2 Cor.7:4   Jesus has already been mentioned as the ultimate example of this.  Paul suffered many persecutions.  In fact they are listed in the eleventh chapter of 2 Corinthians and yet Paul had joy.  Acts 20:24   The Corinthians had suffered affliction and yet had joy to give to the saints in Jerusalem in spite of their own need.  2 Cor.8:2  

Thanksgiving is connected to joy.  It would be difficult to have one without the other.  Col.1:11,12   Paul received persecution as well as the Thessalonians as they were taught and received the Word yet they gave.  1 Thess.1:6   Even if our property is seized as it is today in some countries, we have better possessions in eternity.  Heb.10:34   If we have persecution, affliction, problems, we can rejoice with Christ when He comes to receive us.  1 Pet.4:13

As we work together for the Lord, we rejoice together.  Jhn.4:36   Whether in tribulation or in good times, we are one in the Lord.  Rom.12:15   This oneness make joy complete.  Phil.2:2

Let us always rejoice.  Phil.4:4   Christ can keep us from stumbling and present us faultless as we remain faithful in Him.  This will give Him great joy.  Jude 24   May we remember our strength is in the joy of the Lord.  Neh.8:10

C - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT- 3

C – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 3

In studying the fruit of the spirit, the first and second greatest commandment is involved for love is the first fruit mentioned in Gal.5:22.  Our love of God is of supreme importance as we love Him with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind.  Much difficulty comes in obeying the second greatest commandment—love your neighbor as yourself.  Lk.10:27   Before we leave the subject of love, it is imperative that we take a close look at the “Love Chapter” in 1 Cor.13.

Paul uses the insignificance of some important gifts in comparison to love.  The first gift mentioned was the speaking of tongues.  The Greek word for tongues means languages not previously known to a person.  This would be a tremendous gift, and it happened on the day of Pentecost and also at the conversion of the first Gentile.  But without love—it is just a lot of noise.  The heathen used gongs and cymbals in their worship of false gods.  1 Cor.13:1

The gift of prophecy is closely connected to teaching.  1 Cor.13:2   Even though a person could relay the message of God and teach men accordingly, it would be of no value without love. 

To know is important.  Knowledge comes from study and experience and a person is able to put that knowledge into practical use for the kingdom.  Col.2:2,3   However, knowledge sometimes makes a person “above” common relationships.  1 Cor.8:1   Jesus mentioned faith that could remove mountains.  Matt.17:20   This kind of faith would be deeply spiritual and turn into deeds.  Even that deep faith would be nothing without love.

The next illustration is a practical one.  1 Cor.13:3   Too often the gifts to the needy are done in a spirit of obligation (“have to”) or a spirit of pride (“see what I have done”).  Matt.6:1-4   The humble spirit of joy and love should be present whether we are giving to the church or to the needy.  Matt.25:40    Paul was ready and willing to die for the Lord.  Phil.1:20,21   In the first through the third centuries, many were burned rather than denouncing Christ.  It was done because of love.

The following verses should cause an enormous amount of introspection.  1 Cor.13:4-7   These verses give us one of the most beautiful descriptions of the love that a Christian should have.  May it sink into our hearts.

Love is patient.  How can I achieve patience?  We cannot do it alone.  Col.1:11   We have help from the Holy Spirit.  Patience is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and consequently, we will receive help.  Heb.6:12   A great example of patience is Abraham.  He was given a promise that through his seed all of the world would be blessed.  He had faith and patience that the outcome of God’s promise would be fulfilled.  It was but he did not see it.  He waited many years for a son.  Isaac was born.  If we feel impatience swelling up within us, pray for the Spirit to take over and then give in to the Spirit.

Love is kind.  A very religious person can be very unkind in attitude, speech, and deed.  As a Christian we are told to be kind in many lists of virtues.  Eph.4:31,32   Paul describes the things that would be unkind and then tells us to be kind and compassionate

Love is not jealous.  Envy looks at the good that someone else has and then they want the same.  Another kind of envy wishes the other person did not have it.  Jam.3:14.16   This is not the way of love.  Gal.5:26

Love does not brag and is not arrogant.  Prov.13:10   Pride builds oneself up over another.  Phil.2:3   This would be true humility.

Love is not rude (NIV)  Rudeness has been defined as disrespectful, unmannerly, offensive, even abrasive.  This would not describe love nor would it be an example of a Christian to the world.

Love does not seek its own.  This could include seeking our own way, our own place, our own right.  This would be self-seeking and selfish.  1 Cor.10:24,33   Love cares about others—their feelings, their success, their desires, etc.  We should think less of our rights and more of the things we ought to be doing.

Love is not provoked.  Jam.1:19,20   We need to be the master of our thoughts and feelings.  They can bring us disaster.  Paul gave this admonition to Timothy to preach to others.  1 Tim.2:8   The importance of keeping anger under control is given in Eph.4:26,27   If left to fester, it becomes bitterness and grows.  The devil can use this to our downfall.

Love does not take into account a wrong suffered.  Another translation uses the term, store up.  It is much like an accountant notating each wrong in a ledger and keeping track of it all.  Christian love forgives and forgets.  Isn’t this what God does for us?  Keeping track only makes relationships worse and could never be considered as love.  At times there is a tendency to think evil motives of someone when there is none.  Is this what we would want?

Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness.  Do we wish for someone to be in Satan’s grip? 

There are times when it seems people are more interested in misfortunate and a fall into sin than they are to celebrate something good.  This would not be Christlike and certainly not Christian love.

The above has mentioned traits that love does not have.  We now come to what love does.  Love rejoices with the truth.  Sometimes it is difficult for a Christian to face the truth.  If we are willing to do so, we will be better for it and grow.  Eph.4:15   A Christian loves the truth of the Word.  3 Jhn.3   The Word deals with us.  Heb.4:12,13

Love bears all things.  Rom.15:1   Love would rather quietly attempt to mend things and not publicly display them or publicly rebuke them.  Love also will endure slights, insults, misunderstandings and any disappointments.  1 Pet.4:8

Love believes all things.  Love is ready to believe the best of all.  A quote:  “Love ennobles even the ignoble by believing the best.”  Love does not put wrong motives into our thinking about them.

Love hopes all things.  Love hopes for the best in others and puts faith in what they can and will do.  Love will help in a situation if at all possible to encourage and strengthen.

Love endures all things.  Endurance does not cause a passive attitude but “deals with it.”

Paul the apostle had a thorn in the flesh.  After praying and it was not removed, he did not just sit down and quit.  He had the fortitude to conquer with God’s grace.

Love never fails.  Rom.12:9,10; 1 Pet.3:8

A - FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT - 1

A – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 1

Let us begin with defining “fruit.”  In a material sense, fruit is the product of a tree, vine, plant of some kind.  A child is referred to as the “fruit of the womb.  In a spiritual sense, fruit is the natural product of a spiritual person.  Jesus speaks of fruit in John 15.  We cannot bear fruit unless we abide in Jesus.  Without Him we can do nothing.  John 15:4,5

Fruit must have nourishment and it is from Christ and His Word that we receive our food.

False teachers as well as Christians are known by their fruits.  Matt. 7:16-20   Spreading God’s Word is fruit as is righteousness.  Prov.11:30   The work of our hands in the way of good deeds as well as our speech is a fruit.  Prov.12:14;  Isa.3:10   Righteousness bears a fruit in peace, quietness, and confidence.  Isa.32:17  

Jesus told the Sadducees to bear fruit worthy of repentance as they came to the Jordan where John the Baptist was baptizing for repentance.  Matt.3:8  As we think of the fruit we bear in our lives, we do not want it said that there was “nothing but leaves.”  When Jesus saw the barren fig tree, it was the time when figs would have been ripe—but there was no fruit..  Matt.21:19  

Paul mentions a fruit for death but that was our old live.  We have a new life in Christ so now we bear fruit to God.  Rom.7:4-6   Our fruit can be in the form of good works to the glory of God and not to our own glory.  Col.1:10   Our praise and confession of His name is a fruit of our lips.  Heb.13:15   When Paul was taking financial gifts to help the Christians in Jerusalem, he mentions this financial gift as a fruit.  Rom.15:28   Paul wanted to visit Rome so much because he wanted to “obtain fruit” there as in other places.  He wanted to spread the gospel and win souls.  Rom.15:16

Hopefully, we can see the importance of bearing fruit for the Lord.  So far, most of the fruit has been fruit in action.  Next we want to see the fruit that we bear in our attitude and dispositions.  This fruit is seen by those of the world and becomes a great influence on their lives.  We can be full of great deeds but if we fail in attitudes and disposition, we have failed.  God expects both.

We have been given the indwelling Holy Spirit.  This happened at the time of our baptism.  Acts 2:38;  1 Thess.4:8   The Holy Spirit is our Helper to be able to bear fruit for our Lord.  Jhn.14:16,23   “We will come and make our abode with him.”  Jesus is with us as well as the Holy Spirit.  Jhn.15:5   If we have the Spirit in us, then we need to live like it.  Gal.5:25

The “fruit” of the Spirit is presented as a whole.  We must have all nine or we will become weak in some.  It is like a “fruit bowl.”  It may contain many fruits but is presented in singular.  It is fitting that Paul begins this list in Gal.5:22,23 with love.  If we carefully look at the list, what would any of them be without love.  Yet maybe this is the most difficult for us to possess and grow in all occasions.  It is a necessity, though, as we study the Scriptures.

Jesus said that love is contained in the greatest two commandments.  Lk.10:27   It is a quote from the O.T.  The first commandment is a quote from Deut.6:5-9.  The second one is a quote from Lev.19:18   These two commandments are quoted by Matthew in Matt.22:37,38.  The importance is stressed in Matt.22:40.  Mark also included these two commandments in Mk. 12:30,31  Jesus added in verse 31 that there was no commandment greater than these. 

First, we must love God.  How do we really know that we love God?  1Jhn.2:3,5   To know God is not to know about Him.  I might know about Abraham Lincoln but I do not know him.  We love Him when we keep His commandments.  Our love for God has to be more than a claim.  Titus 1:16   Our love shows that we know God.  1 Jhn.4:8  We know that there is just one God.  Eph.4:6;  1 Tim.2:5    God works in us.  Phil.2:13   We love Him and want to do all to His glory.  1 Cor.10:31   We want to bear fruit for God.  Rom.7:4

Our love of God involves every part of us.  First, we love God with ALL our heart.  This is to love Him more than any being or thing.  We would be willing to give up anything for the sake of God and His Son.  The expression of today—He is number ONE.  We put importance on things that are spiritual and eternal.  Jhn.6:27; 1 Cor.1:30   We want to please God in everything we do.  Heb.11:6

We love God with ALL our soul.  We love and honor God with all of our life.  Our comforts and earthly desires would never come before God’s desire for us.  We would gladly surrender even our life rather than deny the God who gave us life in the first place and will give us a greater life eternally.  It isn’t about our life here on earth.  We gladly give of our time, of our finances, and whatever it takes to serve Him.

We love God with ALL our strength.  We are willing to use our bodily strength to labor for Him and Christ’s church.  We may become exhausted.  We may have to give up our own labors for self but God is our all-in-all.  Whatever we have the ability to do, we do it to the glory of God because we love Him.

We love God with ALL our mind.  This is our intellect.  We want to grow in our knowledge of Him and His Word.  This spiritual knowledge will guide our every step and change our decisions in life.  As we learn, we can pass the gospel on to others to save, to encourage, to comfort them in the struggles of life.  We will also show our gratitude to God for His many blessings in life—not generically but specifically, large and small.

To quote Barnes: “True religion begins and ends in love to God and man.  These are the two grand links that unite God to man, man to his fellows, and men again to God.”  Love if the fulfilling of God’s law for us.  Matt.22:40   We have addressed the first law.  Next, we will study the second law—man to man.

B-FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT-2

B – FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – 2

From our first lesson, we realize that God is number ONE.   God is love and loved us before we even thought of loving Him.  We love Him with ALL our heart, soul, strength, and mind.  We know we love Him if we obey Him.  This is by far the most important commandment.  It was stated in the O.T. and Jesus repeated it in the N.T.

Right along with this first commandment comes the second commandment of importance.  Matt.22:39   “As yourself” reminds one of what is called the “Golden Rule.”   Matt.7:12   Loving someone who loves us back is fairly simple.  However to love someone who has nothing to do with us, or someone who is unkind—that is difficult.  We may have someone that completely misunderstands us and fails to listen to us.  Then there are those that are just unlovely and even those that are our enemies.  Do we have to love them?  Did God love us when we were sinners and very unlovely?    1Jhn.4:10,19   Yes, He loved us first when we were and are all sinners. 

Let us look at this difficult 2^nd commandment of importance.  Remember, it was given in the O.T. as well as the N.T.  Lev.19:18   This is a big temptation that Satan puts in our hearts—we hold grudges against our brothers and sisters in Christ.  This should not be.  After this statement God reminds us that He is the Lord.  What He says matters.  “But you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”  Our neighbor is not only our brothers and sisters in Christ but everyone.  Paul restates some of the Ten Commandments and then he says, “it is summed up” in loving our neighbor as ourselves.  Rom.13:9,10   But I don’t do any wrong to him, we say.  Maybe not, but if we think it and harbor it in our hearts, it is the same.  An example is when Jesus said if we are angry with someone, we have done the same as committing murder.  Or if we lust after someone, we have committed adultery.  What we think in our hearts is important to God.  Matt.5:21,22; Matt.5:27,28

As we remember the love that God gave to us.  This was grace—we neither deserved it not was it something we could earn.  Do we really believe we were in sin or do we just smooth it over.  1 Jhn.4:11,12   If we love one another, God abides in us.  Is this of importance to us?  Can we choose the ones we love?  That option is not found in the Bible.  We justify; we make excuses; we fall for Satan’s deception. 

A command concerning an enemy is found in Matt.5:44.  Quoted from W.D. Mounce:  “A child of God may have enemies but is not to be an enemy toward another person.”  An enemy is one who is hostile toward another.  Is one we consider an enemy really hostile toward us or are they just not reacting the way we think they should.  In any case, we are to love them and pray for them.  We are all human beings with many faults and weaknesses.  Our goal is to encourage, try to understand, forbear, forgive that we may all grow up together in Christ.  1 Thess.3:12; 1 Jhn.2:10,11

We have such a tendency to see the dot in our eye and the plank in our neighbor’s eye when it may be the other way around.  Matt.7:3-5   This is the way Satan wants us to think and act for love of one another is his enemy.  Jam.4:11   It would be difficult, if not impossible, to love one another as long as we are judging one another.  Rom.14:10

As Christ loved us, even to the point of calling us His brother, so we love others.  Mk.3:35   God called us His child.  1 Jhn.3:10,11,23   Could we ever ask for more?  Oh, how we love Him so in turn we love others.  1 Thess.3:12,13   We would say that we love God but do we?  1 Jhn.4:20,21

We are to especially love those of the household of faith—our brothers and sisters in Christ.  Gal.6:10   These are not the only ones we love.  We love all.  1 Thess.3:12   We are told to do everything in love.  That is all inclusive.  1 Cor.16:14   The importance of love is emphasized in Gal.5:14   Jesus, Himself, said that there is no other commandment greater than these two—love God with your ALL and also your neighbor.  Mk.12:31

Our own hearts can deceive us as our words indicate love, but not our deeds.  1 Jhn.3:17   We want to know God and know that we are born of Him.  This can only happen as we love one another.  1 Jhn.4:7,8   May this not be just words.

Adam Clark leaves us with a good quote on loving our neighbor:

“By this rule we are taught to bear with, love and forgive him; to rejoice in his felicity (happiness), mourn in his adversity, desire and delight in his prosperity, and promote it to the utmost of our power; instruct his ignorance, help him in his weakness, and risk even our life for his sake, and for the public good.  In a word, we must do everything in our power, through all the possible varieties of circumstances, for our neighbors, which we would wish them to do for us, were our situations reversed.”

May we learn and grow in our ability to love.  Lk.10:27