The Fruit of the Spirit (2021)
The Fruit of the Spirit (2021)
10 studies, in the order they were taught. All series
Fruit of the Spirit: Walk by the Spirit
Galatians 5:16–23
Starting a new study. Christlike character does not come from keeping rules but from walking by the Spirit, not from copying the outward form of faith.
Love: The Greatest Fruit
1 Corinthians 13
Love is the first fruit of the Spirit. Paul tells the Corinthians that gifts mean little without love, and a true follower of Jesus is known by the fruit he bears.
Joy: Rejoicing from a Prison Cell
Philippians 4:4
Paul wrote 'rejoice in the Lord always' from prison, having learned joy when he first planted the church in Philippi. Joy is a choice we make, and it can be hard won.
Peace: With God and With Others
Ephesians 2:11–18
Christ is our peace, tearing down the wall between Jews and Gentiles. Peace with God leads to peace with others, and we each have a part in pursuing it.
Patience: Slowing Down to Wait on God
Psalm 37:7–8
Patience means slowing down and trusting God's timing. David says to be still before the Lord and not fret, because hurrying does not change where we are headed.
Kindness: David and Mephibosheth
2 Samuel 9
David asks whether anyone is left to whom he can show God's kindness, and he welcomes Jonathan's crippled son Mephibosheth to his table. God's kindness to us shows how to treat others.
Goodness: Reflecting God's Goodness
Galatians 5:22–23
Goodness starts with God's own goodness, celebrated in Psalm 34. The Spirit grows it in us so that we do what is right, as Jesus did when he cleared the temple.
Faithfulness: Saul and Daniel
Galatians 5:22–23
Faithfulness is rare today. Saul grew impatient and offered a sacrifice himself, while Daniel stayed committed to God even when it was dangerous.
Gentleness: The Forgotten Fruit
Galatians 5:22–23
Gentleness is the overlooked fruit. It begins with Jesus, who is gentle and humble, and when it shows in us people know God is near.
Self-Control: Training Like an Athlete
Galatians 5:22–23
Closing the fruit studies, the Spirit gives strength to our weak self-control. Like athletes in training for a race, we need discipline to win against our own flesh.