11

The Fruit of the SpiritThe Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23Galatians 5:22-23

““But the fruit of the spirit is…But the fruit of the spirit is…Love,Love,

Joy,Joy,

Peace,Peace,

Longsuffering,Longsuffering,

Gentleness,Gentleness,

Goodness,Goodness,

Faith,Faith,

Meekness,Meekness,

TemperanceTemperance,,

against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

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Separate Fruit or Different Separate Fruit or Different Aspects of One Fruit? Aspects of One Fruit?

Fruit in the New Testament is normally plural Fruit in the New Testament is normally plural Only in Galatians 5:22 and Luke 1:42 Only in Galatians 5:22 and Luke 1:42

(referring to Jesus) is it singular(referring to Jesus) is it singular Actually, this fruit is “singular collective” Actually, this fruit is “singular collective” One collective fruit – that is centered One collective fruit – that is centered in LOVE & made up of 8 other parts?in LOVE & made up of 8 other parts? Consider I Corinthians 13 and 2 Peter 1Consider I Corinthians 13 and 2 Peter 1

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Galatians 5Galatians 5 I Corinthians I Corinthians 1313Fruit of SpiritFruit of Spirit Love or Charity… Love or Charity…JOYJOY

PEACEPEACE

LONGSUFFERINLONGSUFFERINGG

GENTLENESSGENTLENESS

GOODNESSGOODNESS

FAITHFAITH

MEEKNESSMEEKNESS

TEMPERANCETEMPERANCE

““rejoiceth” “hopeth all things” rejoiceth” “hopeth all things”

““beareth all things” “endureth all beareth all things” “endureth all things”things”

““suffereth long” “not easily suffereth long” “not easily provoked”provoked”

““is kind” “envieth not”is kind” “envieth not”

““rejoiceth not in iniquity” “thinketh rejoiceth not in iniquity” “thinketh not evil”not evil”

““believeth all things” “never believeth all things” “never faileth”faileth”

““not puffed up” “vaunteth not not puffed up” “vaunteth not itself”itself”

““behaveth not unseemly” “seeketh behaveth not unseemly” “seeketh not her own”not her own”

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2 Peter 12 Peter 1 Galatians Galatians 55

FAITHFAITH (same word) (same word) FAITHFAITH

VIRTUEVIRTUE brings brings GOODNESS GOODNESS

KNOWLEDGEKNOWLEDGE brings (see brings (see PEACEPEACE

2 Pet. 1:3)2 Pet. 1:3)

TEMPERANCETEMPERANCE (same word) (same word) TEMPERANCE TEMPERANCE

PATIENCEPATIENCE encourages encourages LONGSUFFERINGLONGSUFFERING

GODLINESSGODLINESS brings brings GENTLENESSGENTLENESS

BROTHERLY KINDNESS andBROTHERLY KINDNESS and MEEKNESS MEEKNESS

CHARITYCHARITY equals equals LOVELOVE

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““But the fruit of the spirit But the fruit of the spirit is…is…

LoveLove……Joy,Joy,Peace,Peace,Longsuffering,Longsuffering,Gentleness,Gentleness,Goodness,Goodness,Faith,Faith,Meekness,Meekness,TemperanceTemperance,,against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

Galatians 5:22-23Galatians 5:22-23

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LongsufferingLongsuffering

English word – joining together of 2 wordsEnglish word – joining together of 2 words Original Greek – also combination of 2 wordsOriginal Greek – also combination of 2 words

– makro makro and and themeothemeo– Literally “slow anger” or “long temper”Literally “slow anger” or “long temper”– Also translated “patience”Also translated “patience”

Newer versions (eg, NIV & NEB) translate this Newer versions (eg, NIV & NEB) translate this fruit of the spirit as “patience”fruit of the spirit as “patience”

But, there is a difference between Biblical But, there is a difference between Biblical “Longsuffering” and Patience (as we know it). “Longsuffering” and Patience (as we know it).

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The Patience of JobThe Patience of Job

Character of Job – well illustrates difference between Character of Job – well illustrates difference between patience and longsufferingpatience and longsuffering

Known for patience but not longsufferingKnown for patience but not longsuffering James uses both words in chapter 5:James uses both words in chapter 5:

– ““Be patient Be patient (makrothumia) (makrothumia) therefore, brethren, unto the therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman…hath long coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman…hath long patience for it…Be ye also patientpatience for it…Be ye also patient”” James 5:7-8James 5:7-8

– ““Ye have heard of the patience Ye have heard of the patience (hupomone) (hupomone) of Job, and of Job, and hath seen the end of the Lord…”hath seen the end of the Lord…” James 5:11James 5:11

James says -- We need more than “patience” James says -- We need more than “patience” ((humononehumonone))! !

Job, too, needed to learn “longsuffering” Job, too, needed to learn “longsuffering” ((makrothumia)makrothumia)

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Longsuffering of Yahweh Longsuffering of Yahweh

God is described as being “slow to God is described as being “slow to anger” anger” Neh. 9:17Neh. 9:17

Exhibited this characteristic many times Exhibited this characteristic many times - e.g., time of Noah - e.g., time of Noah (see 1 Pet. 3:20)(see 1 Pet. 3:20)

“…“…but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”.come to repentance”. 2 Pet. 3:92 Pet. 3:9

““And account that the longsuffering of our And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation.”Lord is salvation.” 2 Pet. 3:152 Pet. 3:15

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Slow Anger is Slow Anger is not No Anger No Anger

Impossible to experience no anger.Impossible to experience no anger. What counts is how we express it.What counts is how we express it. And we need to express it – release it in And we need to express it – release it in

some way.some way. Not in ways that are physically or Not in ways that are physically or

emotionally damaging to other people.emotionally damaging to other people. Opposite of “slow anger” = “quick Opposite of “slow anger” = “quick

temper” temper” – notnot a part of the fruit of the Spirit a part of the fruit of the Spirit

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Anger – Biblical Common Anger – Biblical Common SenseSense

““A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man quietly holds back”. man quietly holds back”. Prov. 29:11 (RSV)Prov. 29:11 (RSV)

““Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath” down upon your wrath” Eph. 4:26Eph. 4:26

““Be…slow to wrath: For the wrath of man Be…slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God” worketh not the righteousness of God” James James 1:19,201:19,20

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Anger - Negative Anger - Negative (& Positive)(& Positive) Sides Sides

Negative ImpactsNegative Impacts Attacking another personAttacking another person Thinking hateful thoughtsThinking hateful thoughts Festering grudgesFestering grudges Souring relationshipsSouring relationships Guilt -> Neurosis -> Physical Illness Guilt -> Neurosis -> Physical Illness

Positive SidePositive Side Use it as ‘fuel for motivation”Use it as ‘fuel for motivation” But must let it go; “calm it back”But must let it go; “calm it back”

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The Answer to Anger and The Answer to Anger and The Secret of The Secret of LongsufferingLongsuffering It is quite simple –It is quite simple – It is the ACT of FORGIVENESSIt is the ACT of FORGIVENESS It is essential to our own emotional, It is essential to our own emotional,

spiritual and even physical well-being.spiritual and even physical well-being.

““To Forgive is to set a prisoner free and To Forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was YOU.”discover the prisoner was YOU.”

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Forgiveness – A Way of LifeForgiveness – A Way of Life

Forgiveness does not come naturallyForgiveness does not come naturally It needs It needs PracticePractice – working on until it – working on until it

becomes a habitbecomes a habit Starting with small everyday thingsStarting with small everyday things Just let it go; calm it backJust let it go; calm it back Think back – Do you have Think back – Do you have anythinganything

against against anyoneanyone? ? FORGIVE THEM – set yourself freeFORGIVE THEM – set yourself free

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Forgiving YourselfForgiving Yourself

Anger towards ourselves is no less bad Anger towards ourselves is no less bad than anger directed towards others.than anger directed towards others.

Can be most difficult form of Can be most difficult form of forgiveness.forgiveness.

There is nothing wrong with having a There is nothing wrong with having a certain healthy regard for ourselves.certain healthy regard for ourselves.

But, we think we But, we think we own own ourselves and ourselves and therefore can therefore can mistreatmistreat ourselves. ourselves.

Not so! We were Not so! We were “bought with a price”.“bought with a price”.

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Longsuffering Towards Longsuffering Towards OurselvesOurselves Go easy on yourself or it will be impossible to Go easy on yourself or it will be impossible to

go easy on others.go easy on others. If we are over-critical and chronically angry at If we are over-critical and chronically angry at

ourselves, we’re not going to project a ourselves, we’re not going to project a different attitude towards our “neighbors”.different attitude towards our “neighbors”.

We can’t give away what we don’t have We can’t give away what we don’t have ourselves.ourselves.

““For if our heart condemn us, God is greater For if our heart condemn us, God is greater (hearted) (hearted) than our heart than our heart (than I am)(than I am), and , and knoweth all things” knoweth all things” 1 John 3:20 1 John 3:20

Yahweh is more long-suffering than we can Yahweh is more long-suffering than we can ever imagine.ever imagine.

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Is it ‘self-control’ or ‘God-control’? Natural will is weak; to overcome must be

aligned with higher power. True temperance – only through “delight and

meditation” in God’s Word. We must hold back and not indulge in

excesses acceptable to the world.

TEMPERANCETEMPERANCE

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TEMPERANCE TEMPERANCE

Original Greek – Original Greek – Egkrateia Egkrateia (pronounced en-(pronounced en-krateia)krateia)

Compound of two words – Compound of two words – enen + + kratoskratos Literally means – “in strength”Literally means – “in strength” To have power over one’s self; Self-controlTo have power over one’s self; Self-control Indeed, it takes much strength to overcome Indeed, it takes much strength to overcome

the lure from within that is so strong. the lure from within that is so strong. – ““He who rules his spirit He who rules his spirit [is better][is better] than he who than he who

takes a citytakes a city” ” Prov. 16:32Prov. 16:32

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Biblical (NT) context of Biblical (NT) context of TemperanceTemperance

““But if they But if they [unmarried and widows][unmarried and widows] cannot cannot containcontain, let , let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burnthem marry: for it is better to marry than to burn”. ”. 1 1 Corinthians 7:9Corinthians 7:9 – Original word for “contain” is Original word for “contain” is egkrateia egkrateia or temperance.or temperance.– The context is how much easier it can be to serve God if The context is how much easier it can be to serve God if

one remains unmarried.one remains unmarried. “ “And every man that striveth for the mastery is And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperatetemperate

in all things…But I keep under my body, and bring it into in all things…But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest by any means, when I have preached to subjection: lest by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway”others, I myself should be a castaway” 1 Cor. 9:25,271 Cor. 9:25,27– Context of 1 Corinthians 9 is clearly confined to bodily Context of 1 Corinthians 9 is clearly confined to bodily

excesses.excesses.

– IsIs “all” “all” the universal all – absolutely everything?the universal all – absolutely everything? – Should we be “temperate” in our love for God, for Should we be “temperate” in our love for God, for

example?example?

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Other areas of self-controlOther areas of self-control

Drinking Drinking

Amassing wealthAmassing wealth SpendingSpending

EatingEating

Etc.Etc.

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Temperance vs. ModerationTemperance vs. Moderation

These words are close synonyms but are not These words are close synonyms but are not the same, particularly as they relate to the same, particularly as they relate to morality.morality.

““Moderation in all things” is a phrase often Moderation in all things” is a phrase often heard today but it is not Biblical. heard today but it is not Biblical.

There are some things we are told to abstain There are some things we are told to abstain from.from.

Abstinence is the ultimate form of Abstinence is the ultimate form of temperance.temperance.

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Interlocking Pieces of FruitInterlocking Pieces of Fruit

All parts of the fruit of the Spirit overlap and All parts of the fruit of the Spirit overlap and interlink. interlink.

All parts combine to make the complete and All parts combine to make the complete and true Christ-like character. true Christ-like character.

Lack of one part will generally mean Lack of one part will generally mean shortages in other parts. shortages in other parts.

For example - if we fail to be longsuffering, For example - if we fail to be longsuffering, we will fail at joy and peacewe will fail at joy and peace

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GentlenessGentleness

Greek – Greek – chrestoteschrestotes More often translated “More often translated “kindness” kindness” in AVin AV This fruit is better understood as KindnessThis fruit is better understood as Kindness Acts of kindness – Acts of kindness – “the cup of cold water”“the cup of cold water” Everyday things – i.e. generally being “nice”?Everyday things – i.e. generally being “nice”? Social Kindness - because we like to be liked Social Kindness - because we like to be liked Fruit of the Spirit is not just Social KindnessFruit of the Spirit is not just Social Kindness

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Being vs. DoingBeing vs. Doing

Fruit of the Spirit – about Fruit of the Spirit – about beingbeing more than more than doingdoing

Internal quality of kindness rather than Internal quality of kindness rather than outward manifestation of it.outward manifestation of it.

Perfunctory kindness – no better than social Perfunctory kindness – no better than social kindnesskindness

Chrestotes & Chrestotes & related related Chrestos – Chrestos – describe describe genuinegenuine kindness of the heart kindness of the heart

Mirrors the kindness of Yahweh himself and Mirrors the kindness of Yahweh himself and of His Sonof His Son

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References to Kindness of References to Kindness of GodGodOriginal Greek – Original Greek – “chrestotes” or “chrestotes” or “chrestos”“chrestos”““the riches of his goodness”the riches of his goodness” Rom. 2:4Rom. 2:4““the goodness and severity of God”the goodness and severity of God” Rom. 11:22Rom. 11:22““if thou continue in his goodness”if thou continue in his goodness” Rom. Rom.

11:2211:22““the riches of His grace in his kindness”the riches of His grace in his kindness” Eph. 2:7Eph. 2:7““the kindness and love of God”the kindness and love of God” Titus 3:4Titus 3:4““the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance”the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance”

Rom. 2:4Rom. 2:4““He is kind to be thankful”He is kind to be thankful” Luke 6:35Luke 6:35““Be ye kind…tenderhearted…forgivingBe ye kind…tenderhearted…forgiving Eph. 4:32Eph. 4:32

as God”as God”

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Kindness – Kindness – principle attribute principle attribute of of God’s grace God’s grace

GRACEGRACE

favor favor generositygenerosity allowance allowance mercymercy

goodwillgoodwill clemency clemency beneficence beneficence

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Sympathy for OthersSympathy for Others

Gentleness (KINDNESS) will manifest itself in Gentleness (KINDNESS) will manifest itself in greater sympathy for people.greater sympathy for people.

Reality is – we all suffer from cursed human Reality is – we all suffer from cursed human condition.condition.

Genuine kindness comes from knowing and Genuine kindness comes from knowing and appreciating what others are going through appreciating what others are going through (treating them in a way that shows you really (treating them in a way that shows you really believe they matter)believe they matter)

Kindness is NOT being patronizing and Kindness is NOT being patronizing and condescending; but being empathetic.condescending; but being empathetic.

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Kindness begins “at home”Kindness begins “at home”

Should find its fullest and best Should find its fullest and best expression among fellow believers.expression among fellow believers.

““Let each esteem others better than Let each esteem others better than himself” himself” Phil. 2:3 RAVPhil. 2:3 RAV

Indicates high level of grace, allowance Indicates high level of grace, allowance and understanding we should have for and understanding we should have for others of the faith.others of the faith.

But, are we impartial in esteeming But, are we impartial in esteeming others?others?- “They would be all right - “They would be all right if onlyif only they were…” they were…”

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What Philippians 2:3 does not What Philippians 2:3 does not saysay

““let each esteem let each esteem himself himself [or herself] [or herself] worse than others”worse than others”

This passage is not “reversible” in this way.This passage is not “reversible” in this way. Spirit of the verse is to exalt others; not Spirit of the verse is to exalt others; not

knock ourselves down.knock ourselves down. It should have a positive effect on us – help It should have a positive effect on us – help

us to show kindness to fellow believers.us to show kindness to fellow believers.

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So…How do we show So…How do we show kindness to fellow believers?kindness to fellow believers? By passing on the grace that Yahweh has By passing on the grace that Yahweh has

shown unto us.shown unto us. By making allowance for others.By making allowance for others. Treating them with sympathy and Treating them with sympathy and

understanding.understanding. Understanding what makes them “tick”.Understanding what makes them “tick”. By putting away all the bad uses of the By putting away all the bad uses of the

tongue – tongue – Eph. 4:29, 31, 32Eph. 4:29, 31, 32 By By “ministering grace unto the hearers” “ministering grace unto the hearers” andand

using the art of careful listeningusing the art of careful listening

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Kindness can be Kindness can be “expensive”“expensive”

Real kindness does have a “cost” –Real kindness does have a “cost” –– Our timeOur time– Our energyOur energy– Our moneyOur money– Our prideOur pride– Our convenienceOur convenience– Our securityOur security

ButBut, we won’t “count the cost” when it , we won’t “count the cost” when it has become part of our everyday has become part of our everyday character.character.

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The Milk of Human KindnessThe Milk of Human Kindness

““too full o’ the milk of human kindnesstoo full o’ the milk of human kindness” ” Lady Macbeth Lady Macbeth

Is there a danger of being overly kind or taken Is there a danger of being overly kind or taken advantage of for our kindness?advantage of for our kindness?

Answer – leave it in God’s hands; trust in Him.Answer – leave it in God’s hands; trust in Him. Never allow “the milk” to go sour!Never allow “the milk” to go sour! The kindness of Christ and his Father is The kindness of Christ and his Father is

experienced by tasting “experienced by tasting “the sincere milk of the the sincere milk of the word”.word”. [1 Peter 2:2,3][1 Peter 2:2,3]

Kindness will be perfectly manifested in us as Kindness will be perfectly manifested in us as citizens of the Kingdom.citizens of the Kingdom.

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GoodnessGoodness

Greek word – Greek word – agathosuneagathosune Only appears in New Testament four Only appears in New Testament four

timestimes– Romans 15:14Romans 15:14– Galatians 5:22Galatians 5:22– Ephesians 5:9Ephesians 5:9– 2 Thessalonians 1:112 Thessalonians 1:11

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““Full of Goodness” Full of Goodness” Rom. Rom. 15:1415:14

Not in absolute senseNot in absolute sense Even Christ said Even Christ said ““there is none good but one, there is none good but one,

that is God”that is God” Matt. 19:16-17Matt. 19:16-17 Yahweh mayYahweh may impute goodness on His own impute goodness on His own

terms; but it’s not inherent or earned.terms; but it’s not inherent or earned. But, Romans had But, Romans had sufficientsufficient knowledge and knowledge and

goodness.goodness. With such, they were able to With such, they were able to ““admonish one admonish one

another”another” and lead away from false doctrine and lead away from false doctrine and un-Christ-like practices Paul warned them and un-Christ-like practices Paul warned them against.against.

Do we have “sufficient” goodness? Do we have “sufficient” goodness?

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GoodnessGoodness

Greek word – Greek word – agathosuneagathosune New Testament referencesNew Testament references

– Romans 15:14Romans 15:14– Galatians 5:22Galatians 5:22– Ephesians 5:9Ephesians 5:9– 2 Thessalonians 1:112 Thessalonians 1:11

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““((For the fruit of the Spirit is in For the fruit of the Spirit is in all all goodnessgoodness…)”…)” Ephesians Ephesians 5:95:9 Verse must be considered in context of Verse must be considered in context of

chapters 4 and 5 and especially vv. 8-11.chapters 4 and 5 and especially vv. 8-11. Chief source of defense against unfruitful Chief source of defense against unfruitful

works of darkness is fruit of the Spirit.works of darkness is fruit of the Spirit. And only fruit mentioned explicitly is And only fruit mentioned explicitly is

“goodness”.“goodness”. GoodnessGoodness works in “ works in “proving what is proving what is

acceptableacceptable” and in ” and in reprovingreproving the “ the “unfruitful unfruitful works of darknessworks of darkness”.”.

Relationship of goodness to admonishing and Relationship of goodness to admonishing and reproving is very significant.reproving is very significant.

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““good pleasure of good pleasure of [His] [His] goodnessgoodness””2 Thess. 1:112 Thess. 1:11

“ “Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of [this] calling, and fulfil all the would count you worthy of [this] calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of [his] goodness, and the work of faith good pleasure of [his] goodness, and the work of faith with power”.with power”.

Some versions other than KJV impute goodness Some versions other than KJV impute goodness in this verse to believers rather than God.in this verse to believers rather than God.

Alternate rendering of 2 Thess. 1:11 –Alternate rendering of 2 Thess. 1:11 –““that our God would count you worthy of calling and that our God would count you worthy of calling and fulfill all the good pleasure fulfill all the good pleasure [delight and desire][delight and desire] of of [your][your] goodness and goodness and [your][your] work of faith with power”. work of faith with power”.

In a nutshell – In a nutshell – The fulfillment of their delight in The fulfillment of their delight in goodness would be their salvation.goodness would be their salvation.

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Goodness is…Goodness is…

The quality of character that lies The quality of character that lies behind, and must precede all truly good behind, and must precede all truly good works.works.

It works something like It works something like a consciencea conscience and may be just that.and may be just that.

““Inner voice” of the Word which is Inner voice” of the Word which is admonishing and reproving us.admonishing and reproving us.– ““Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I

might not sin against thee”might not sin against thee” Psalm Psalm 119:11119:11

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Self-TalkSelf-Talk

Nature of our ‘self-talk’ is extremely important to Nature of our ‘self-talk’ is extremely important to our spiritual and mental well-being.our spiritual and mental well-being.

For people of the world, their ‘self talk’ is almost For people of the world, their ‘self talk’ is almost entirely influenced by themselves and other entirely influenced by themselves and other people.people.

Any ‘goodness’ they have is not the real thing.Any ‘goodness’ they have is not the real thing. Their moral compass is not influenced by the Word Their moral compass is not influenced by the Word

of God.of God. Self-talk of the believer is marked by gentle but Self-talk of the believer is marked by gentle but

firm inner reprovings and admonitions of the Word.firm inner reprovings and admonitions of the Word.– ““When thou awakest, it shall talk with thee” When thou awakest, it shall talk with thee” Prov. 6:22Prov. 6:22

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Our Inner VoiceOur Inner Voice

In the beginning, Adam and Eve’s self-talk was In the beginning, Adam and Eve’s self-talk was the pure voice of goodness.the pure voice of goodness.

Disobedience introduced a new voice in their Disobedience introduced a new voice in their heads.heads.

Voice of goodness became overwhelmed and in Voice of goodness became overwhelmed and in need of constant reinforcement.need of constant reinforcement.

We desperately need the positive influence of We desperately need the positive influence of the Word to restore the godly voice of goodness.the Word to restore the godly voice of goodness.

What’s the inner voice in your head telling you What’s the inner voice in your head telling you most of the time? Is it predominantly the voice of most of the time? Is it predominantly the voice of goodness or the voice of evil?goodness or the voice of evil?

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Positive and Negative Positive and Negative ThinkingThinking Goodness is a form of positive thinking. Goodness is a form of positive thinking. Our natural mode of thinking is negative. Our natural mode of thinking is negative.

It can: It can: – Lead us away from our own highest good Lead us away from our own highest good – Drain our spirit if we let itDrain our spirit if we let it– Try to convince us that bad things are Try to convince us that bad things are

actually good for us.actually good for us. Bible-based positive thinking is the only Bible-based positive thinking is the only

real change agent that can overcome the real change agent that can overcome the natural mode and result in true natural mode and result in true goodness.goodness.

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““Think of these things” Think of these things” Phil. Phil. 4:84:8

““whatsoever things are…whatsoever things are… TRUETRUE HONESTHONEST PUREPURE LOVELYLOVELY GOOD REPORTGOOD REPORT VIRTUEVIRTUE

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““But the fruit of the spirit But the fruit of the spirit is…is…

Love,Love,Joy,Joy,PeacePeace,,Longsuffering,Longsuffering,Gentleness,Gentleness,Goodness,Goodness,FaithFaith,,Meekness,Meekness,TemperanceTemperance,,against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

Galatians 5:22-23Galatians 5:22-23

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The Equation of Faith - The Equation of Faith - Heb. Heb. 11:111:1

Faith Faith ==

SubstanceSubstanceGreek: Greek: hupostatis; hupo - hupostatis; hupo - of, by or under; statis - stateof, by or under; statis - state

literally – of state or of standing literally – of state or of standing something you can stand on; a solid basesomething you can stand on; a solid base

1

The Substance

The Evidence

of

of

2

Things hoped for

Things not seen

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JOY and PEACE – JOY and PEACE – “flip sides of “flip sides of the the same coin”same coin”

JOY JOY PEACE PEACE

(Active)(Active) (Passive) (Passive)

Faith & SecurityFaith & Security

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JOYJOY

Greek – Greek – charachara Related to Related to charis charis (grace)(grace); charisma ; charisma (gift)(gift) JOY = certainty; doubt cast outJOY = certainty; doubt cast out

= expectations soon to be realized = expectations soon to be realized ““good tidings of great joy, which good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all peopleshall be to all people” ” …“…“when they saw the star, when they saw the star, they they rejoiced (rejoiced (chairo) chairo) with with exceeding exceeding great joy (great joy (charachara))”.”.

NO JOY with doubt, worry, lack of faith & NO JOY with doubt, worry, lack of faith & insecurityinsecurity

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Attitude and JoyAttitude and Joy

Christ’s Parables in Christ’s Parables in Matthew 13Matthew 13 - - Attitudes toward the Attitudes toward the

KingdomKingdom Parable of Sower Parable of Sower Treasure hid in the fieldTreasure hid in the field – – v. 44v. 44

– ““The Kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hide The Kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hide in a field; the which when a man hath found, he in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and hideth, and for joy for joy thereof goeth and selleth all thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath and buyeth that field.”that he hath and buyeth that field.”

Pearl of great pricePearl of great price – – vv. 45-46vv. 45-46– ““……is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly

pearls: who, when he found one pearl of great pearls: who, when he found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.”price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.”

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Certainty Certainty vs. vs. DoubtDoubt

Comes through faithComes through faith Awareness of:Awareness of:

– Abundant GraceAbundant Grace– MercyMercy– GoodnessGoodness

““Good Grief”Good Grief” Acknowledging the Acknowledging the

need for confession need for confession and repentanceand repentance

Certainty of Certainty of ForgivenessForgiveness

Comes naturallyComes naturally Not wanting to Not wanting to

delude ourselvesdelude ourselves Thoughts of shame Thoughts of shame

and guiltand guilt Constant failure to Constant failure to

live the Truthlive the Truth Feelings of Feelings of

unworthinessunworthiness

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““The joy of the Lord is your The joy of the Lord is your strength”strength”

Example of the children of Israel in the days of Example of the children of Israel in the days of NehemiahNehemiah– ““For all the people had been weeping as they For all the people had been weeping as they

listened to the words of the Law”listened to the words of the Law” Neh. 8:9 [NIV] Neh. 8:9 [NIV]

– ““Nehemiah said, Go and enjoy…This day is sacred to Nehemiah said, Go and enjoy…This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength”strength” Neh. 8:10 [NIV]Neh. 8:10 [NIV]

““Strength” – Strength” – moaz moaz [Hebrew] = fort or [Hebrew] = fort or strongholdstronghold

Joy founded upon the certainty of Yahweh’s Joy founded upon the certainty of Yahweh’s love and mercy – protection against despair love and mercy – protection against despair and hopelessness that the guilt of sin brings.and hopelessness that the guilt of sin brings.

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““but your sorrow shall be turned but your sorrow shall be turned into into joy”joy”

Example of Christ and the disciplesExample of Christ and the disciples– ““A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again,

a little while, and ye shall see me?a little while, and ye shall see me? Verily, verily, I Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.”but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.” John John 16:19-2016:19-20

Joy that comes from deep-seated Joy that comes from deep-seated spiritual spiritual securitysecurity..

Joy that comes by knowing the Joy that comes by knowing the Kingdom Kingdom will be established.will be established.

5050

Secret of maintaining joySecret of maintaining joy

Keep the vision of your pearl clear Keep the vision of your pearl clear (not hidden in our pockets)(not hidden in our pockets)

Keep the certainty of it always before Keep the certainty of it always before you you (not letting doubt creep in)(not letting doubt creep in)

Always be expecting its value to be Always be expecting its value to be realized (not letting failure obscure realized (not letting failure obscure your vision)your vision)

For “For “thethe joy of the Lord is your joy of the Lord is your strength”strength”

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““But the fruit of the spirit But the fruit of the spirit is…is…

Love,Love,Joy,

PeacePeace,,Longsuffering,Longsuffering,Gentleness,Gentleness,Goodness,Goodness,Faith,Meekness,Meekness,TemperanceTemperance,,against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

Galatians 5:22-23Galatians 5:22-23

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Individual Ideas of PeaceIndividual Ideas of Peace

Sitting alone readingSitting alone reading Walking down a country Walking down a country

pathpath

Fly fishing in a stream Fly fishing in a stream Quiet time after children are asleepQuiet time after children are asleep

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Peace in today’s society?Peace in today’s society?

Our society promotes stress.Our society promotes stress. It is a treadmill society driven by materialism It is a treadmill society driven by materialism

and consumerism.and consumerism. Chasing dreams that are never realized.Chasing dreams that are never realized. Getting “to the top” can take a heavy toll.Getting “to the top” can take a heavy toll. Opting to get off the treadmill is difficult in Opting to get off the treadmill is difficult in

today’s economy and can lead to the stress today’s economy and can lead to the stress of survival.of survival.

Believers’ lives are no less stress-free than Believers’ lives are no less stress-free than others.others.

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The Way of PeaceThe Way of Peace

““Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto youyou” ” John 14:27John 14:27

““let the peace of God rule in your heartslet the peace of God rule in your hearts””Col. Col.

3:153:15

It is possible for everyone to experience real It is possible for everyone to experience real peace.peace.

But, why is the way of peace so difficult for But, why is the way of peace so difficult for most of us to find?most of us to find?

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Peace and CircumstancePeace and Circumstance

Many live with illusion that inner peace is Many live with illusion that inner peace is totally dependent upon external totally dependent upon external circumstances. circumstances.

But, this is NOT the case. Real peace does But, this is NOT the case. Real peace does not depend on circumstances.not depend on circumstances.

If your peace is controlled by external things, If your peace is controlled by external things, then it is not real peace.then it is not real peace.

True peace is obtained by developing the True peace is obtained by developing the other fruit of the Spirit and constant “other fruit of the Spirit and constant “delight delight and meditation on the Word of Godand meditation on the Word of God”.”.

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Scriptural examplesScriptural examples

Stephen was able to retain inner peace, even Stephen was able to retain inner peace, even while being stoned to death.while being stoned to death.

HabakkukHabakkuk– ““Though the fig-tree does not bud and there are no Though the fig-tree does not bud and there are no

grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior”in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior”Hab. 3:17-18 NIVHab. 3:17-18 NIV

PaulPaul– ““Rejoice in the Lord Rejoice in the Lord alwaysalways. I will say it again: . I will say it again:

Rejoice! The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about Rejoice! The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anythinganything, but in , but in everythingeverything, by prayer and petition, , by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the the peace of Godpeace of God, which transcends all , which transcends all understanding, will understanding, will guard guard your hearts and minds in your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:4-7 (NIV)Phil 4:4-7 (NIV)

5757

Real PeaceReal Peace

Practiced* by maintaining inner calm and Practiced* by maintaining inner calm and absolute trust in Yahweh during smaller absolute trust in Yahweh during smaller everyday as well as major crises of life, everyday as well as major crises of life, *as with all the fruit of the Spirit; real peace takes *as with all the fruit of the Spirit; real peace takes

effort to develop as an aspect of our charactereffort to develop as an aspect of our character for…for…

– ““all things all things work togetherwork together forfor good” good”– NotNot that all thingsthat all things “ “areare goodgood””

Bad things must be viewed in context of God Bad things must be viewed in context of God guiding all the events in life to a good, guiding all the events in life to a good, eventual outcome.eventual outcome.

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The GapThe Gap

REAL PEACEREAL PEACE (Spiritual Mind)(Spiritual Mind)

ACTUAL PEACEACTUAL PEACE

(or Lack thereof) (or Lack thereof)

YOU FEELYOU FEEL

LIFE FILLED WITHLIFE FILLED WITH

TROUBLE & CONFUSIONTROUBLE & CONFUSION

(Natural Mind)(Natural Mind)

THE GAP

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Cold WarCold War

Real peace is not the absence of war (or Real peace is not the absence of war (or conflict in our lives).conflict in our lives).

It is a quality (fruit) in its own right which It is a quality (fruit) in its own right which actually replaces conflict within us.actually replaces conflict within us.

Do we have our own personal, Do we have our own personal, inner cold warinner cold war going on?going on?

It is a form of being It is a form of being in the Gap in the Gap (and can be (and can be on the edge of falling out of the ”peace on the edge of falling out of the ”peace zone”).zone”).

Difference between only “Difference between only “resisting the devilresisting the devil” ” and “and “drawing nigh unto Goddrawing nigh unto God”.”.

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The Pendulum of Finding The Pendulum of Finding PeacePeace

“ “Resist the Devil”Resist the Devil” “Draw nigh to “Draw nigh to God”God”

THE GAPTHE GAP

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Finding peace through “the Finding peace through “the bad”bad” To be reminded of God every time something To be reminded of God every time something

goes wrong is perfect way to stay focused on goes wrong is perfect way to stay focused on the Truth and find peace.the Truth and find peace.

Important to see the hand of God in things Important to see the hand of God in things that would normally defeat you and to…that would normally defeat you and to…

Press the Press the praisepraise button, not the button, not the panicpanic button button (i.e., thank God and don’t complain).(i.e., thank God and don’t complain).

Changed attitude to problems and Changed attitude to problems and recognition of God in your life events will recognition of God in your life events will transform you and bring real peace.transform you and bring real peace.– Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with

goodgood.. Rom. 12:21Rom. 12:21

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Confusion vs. PeaceConfusion vs. Peace

““For God is not the author of confusion, but of peaceFor God is not the author of confusion, but of peace” ” 1 Cor. 1 Cor. 14:3314:33

In theIn the Mind of the Flesh Mind of the Flesh GAPGAP Mind of the Spirit Mind of the Spirit

The GAP is a mental state of confusion & instability or The GAP is a mental state of confusion & instability or double-mindedness.double-mindedness.

““A double-minded man is unstable in A double-minded man is unstable in allall his ways his ways” ” James 1:8James 1:8

The Answer: Psalm 86:11-12The Answer: Psalm 86:11-12

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Peace like a RiverPeace like a River

Isaiah 66:12 Isaiah 66:12 ““Behold, I will extend peace to her like a Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream.”river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream.”

Revelation 22:1,2Revelation 22:1,2 Psalm 1:3 Psalm 1:3 “like a tree planted by the rivers of water that “like a tree planted by the rivers of water that

bringeth forth his fruit in due season”bringeth forth his fruit in due season” Psalm 37:11 Psalm 37:11 “meek shall inherit the earth; and shall “meek shall inherit the earth; and shall

delight themselves in the abundance of peace”delight themselves in the abundance of peace” 2 Peter 3:13-142 Peter 3:13-14 Col. 3:15 Col. 3:15 ““And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to

the which also ye are called in one body; the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye and be ye thankful”thankful”..

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““But the fruit of the spirit is…But the fruit of the spirit is…Love,Love,

Joy,Joy,Peace,Peace,

Longsuffering,Longsuffering,Gentleness,Gentleness,

Goodness,Goodness,Faith,Faith,

Meekness,Meekness,Temperance,Temperance,

against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

6565

8-Fold Fruit of the Spirit8-Fold Fruit of the Spirit

Characterizes the New Man in ChristCharacterizes the New Man in Christ Number 8 signifies a new beginningNumber 8 signifies a new beginning

Consider other lists of attributes for –Consider other lists of attributes for –– Elect of GodElect of God (items to (items to put onput on) - Col. 3:12-) - Col. 3:12-

16 16 – Man of GodMan of God - I Timothy 6:11-12 - I Timothy 6:11-12 – Brethren Brethren –Romans 12 entire chapter –Romans 12 entire chapter

6666

Balance and AttitudeBalance and Attitude

Must keep the Fruit in balanceMust keep the Fruit in balance They are the Correct Attitudes to LifeThey are the Correct Attitudes to Life And the And the Fruit of the Spirit Fruit of the Spirit is all about attitude: is all about attitude:

Correct attitudes = Correct attitudes =

JOY, PEACE, etc.JOY, PEACE, etc. The Pull of the The Pull of the FleshFlesh

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Hupomone – Hupomone – Active PatienceActive Patience

One of the noblest of New Testament One of the noblest of New Testament wordswords

Relates specifically to tribulationRelates specifically to tribulation Not a passive form of patienceNot a passive form of patience Through which we can bear all things Through which we can bear all things

through hopethrough hope This was the patience of Job!This was the patience of Job! But, he still needed to learn But, he still needed to learn

“longsuffering” towards his friends.“longsuffering” towards his friends.

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Real FaithReal Faith

Works without faith is ‘phony fruit’.Works without faith is ‘phony fruit’. May have appearance of real fruit.May have appearance of real fruit. But, God is not fooled.But, God is not fooled. Yahweh looks at the being not the doing.Yahweh looks at the being not the doing. Works without real faith will only bring a Works without real faith will only bring a

bitter.bitter. ““by works was faith made perfect” by works was faith made perfect”

James 2:22James 2:22

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The Teenager AnalogyThe Teenager Analogy

Human race is stuck in “adolescence” from Human race is stuck in “adolescence” from God’s perspective – never reaching spiritual God’s perspective – never reaching spiritual maturity.maturity.

Teenagers want the benefits of adulthood Teenagers want the benefits of adulthood without the responsibilities.without the responsibilities.

Temperance is hard for spiritual adolescents of Temperance is hard for spiritual adolescents of all ages.all ages.

Reality is that believers still have same old Reality is that believers still have same old rebellious nature after baptism and can suffer rebellious nature after baptism and can suffer from shortcomings as “spiritual adolescents”.from shortcomings as “spiritual adolescents”.

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Temperance – Biblical Temperance – Biblical emphasisemphasis Immorality was a problem in Paul’s day and Immorality was a problem in Paul’s day and

its much worse today.its much worse today. Biblical temperance is all about being strong Biblical temperance is all about being strong

in the control of our natural tendencies -- the in the control of our natural tendencies -- the primary drives of the flesh.primary drives of the flesh.

Sexual drive is perhaps the strongest and Sexual drive is perhaps the strongest and most difficult to control for some.most difficult to control for some.

Paul explicitly exhorts the brethren in the Paul explicitly exhorts the brethren in the first century on this delicate subject, first century on this delicate subject, especially to the ecclesia in Corinth.especially to the ecclesia in Corinth.

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Goodness in use as a FruitGoodness in use as a Fruit

Goodness is -- quality of character in a believer Goodness is -- quality of character in a believer by which he or she is able to combat “badness” by which he or she is able to combat “badness” or evil.or evil.

Believer should direct his/her “goodness” toward Believer should direct his/her “goodness” toward others in error; using it to validate their others in error; using it to validate their admonition and reproofs.admonition and reproofs.

It only comes from reading the Spirit Word and…It only comes from reading the Spirit Word and… It gives us credibility when dealing with error – It gives us credibility when dealing with error –

doctrine or walk.doctrine or walk. But,But, not its primary function. not its primary function. More importantly, is what it does for us on the More importantly, is what it does for us on the

inside inside ((beingbeing rather than rather than doingdoing).).

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Faith NowFaith Now

Three other matters of faith that are Three other matters of faith that are not future:not future:1.1. Hand of Yahweh in our livesHand of Yahweh in our lives

2.2. His hand in the affairs of present nationsHis hand in the affairs of present nations

3.3. His hand in the pastHis hand in the past

– Each of these has evidence in Each of these has evidence in outworkings beyond Scripture but still outworkings beyond Scripture but still require faithrequire faith

– And we must have faith in ourselves.And we must have faith in ourselves.

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Original Greek - Original Greek - Egkrateia Egkrateia

Compound of two words – Compound of two words – enen + + kratoskratos Literally means – “in strength”Literally means – “in strength” To have power over one’s selfTo have power over one’s self Indeed, it takes much strength to Indeed, it takes much strength to

overcome the lure from within that is overcome the lure from within that is so strong. so strong. – ““He who rules his spirit He who rules his spirit [is better][is better] than he than he

who takes a city” who takes a city” Prov. 16:32Prov. 16:32

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Example of FelixExample of Felix

Procurator of Judea - Paul defended himself Procurator of Judea - Paul defended himself against claims made against him before Felix against claims made against him before Felix (see Acts 24).(see Acts 24).

““And as And as [Paul] [Paul] reasonedreasoned of righteousness, of righteousness, temperancetemperance,, and judgment to come, Felix and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way…” trembled, and answered, Go thy way…” (v. 25)(v. 25)

History shows that Felix indulged in all kinds of History shows that Felix indulged in all kinds of cruelty and moral excess including murder and cruelty and moral excess including murder and adultery.adultery.

Judgment would be the consequence of his lack Judgment would be the consequence of his lack of temperance (and righteousness); therefore he of temperance (and righteousness); therefore he ““trembledtrembled”.”.

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Adultery and Murder in the Adultery and Murder in the HeartHeart We may not be guilty of adultery or murder; We may not be guilty of adultery or murder;

but what about the spiritual equivalents?but what about the spiritual equivalents?““Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou

shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, that whosoever is of the judgment: But I say unto you, that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgmentdanger of the judgment.” .”

““But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heartalready in his heart..” ” Matthew Matthew 5:21, 22 & 28 5:21, 22 & 28

Intemperate thinking is sin in Yahweh’s eyes Intemperate thinking is sin in Yahweh’s eyes just as intemperate action.just as intemperate action.

Are we any less guilty than Felix in regard to Are we any less guilty than Felix in regard to intemperate thinking? intemperate thinking?

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Peace – Peace – Other side of “coin” of Other side of “coin” of SecuritySecurity

JOYJOY (Active) (Active) PEACEPEACE (Passive)(Passive)

SecuritySecurity

Joy gives “sparkle” to life in the Truth.Joy gives “sparkle” to life in the Truth. Peace provides a deeper feeling of well-being.Peace provides a deeper feeling of well-being. True peace is a product of the other Fruit of True peace is a product of the other Fruit of

the Spirit.the Spirit.

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Trees Bearing FruitTrees Bearing Fruit

Fruitful trees are worthwhileFruitful trees are worthwhile Fruitless trees are worthless Fruitless trees are worthless

– The Parable of the Fig Tree (Luke 13:6-9)The Parable of the Fig Tree (Luke 13:6-9) Fruit is the visible evidence/expression Fruit is the visible evidence/expression

of a tree’s good health – both natural of a tree’s good health – both natural & spiritual.& spiritual.

Cultivation = Spiritual Development Cultivation = Spiritual Development – ““fruits meet for repentance” fruits meet for repentance” (Matt. 3:8)(Matt. 3:8)

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A tree planted by the water A tree planted by the water Psalm 1:3 & Jeremiah 17:8Psalm 1:3 & Jeremiah 17:8

Natural - Healthy trees are planted by Natural - Healthy trees are planted by good water suppliesgood water supplies

Spiritual – see preceding versesSpiritual – see preceding verses– ““his his delight delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law is in the law of the Lord; and in his law

doth he doth he meditate meditate day and night”day and night” Ps. 1:2Ps. 1:2– ““Blessed is the man that Blessed is the man that trusteth trusteth in the Lord, and in the Lord, and

whose whose hopehope the Lord is. For he shall be as a the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree…” tree…” Jer. 17:7Jer. 17:7

Delight & Meditation in the LawDelight & Meditation in the Law Trust & Hope in the LordTrust & Hope in the Lord

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““Of the Spirit”Of the Spirit”

Nobody but Yahweh can make a fruitNobody but Yahweh can make a fruit Farmers create best conditions for growth; Farmers create best conditions for growth;

yet natural laws of creation bring yet natural laws of creation bring forth fruitforth fruit

Natural Natural fruit is also “of the Spirit”fruit is also “of the Spirit” But, ‘But, ‘fruit of the Spirit’ fruit of the Spirit’ is extra specialis extra special

– Brings together all the qualities of character produced in the heart of a believer by the Spirit

– And like natural fruit, man cannot manufacture such qualities on his own

– This fruit has to go through a process of growth

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Fruit “of the World”Fruit “of the World”

‘‘Good works’ of the unbeliever are Good works’ of the unbeliever are notnot the fruit of the Spirit and fail to please the fruit of the Spirit and fail to please YahwehYahweh

They are synthetic or imitation fruit.They are synthetic or imitation fruit. ‘‘Good people’ only appear to be what Good people’ only appear to be what

God wants. God wants.

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NotNot a a giftgift of the Spirit of the Spirit

‘‘of the Spirit’ of the Spirit’ ≠ ≠ gift of the Spiritgift of the Spirit This fruit is not conferred by the Holy This fruit is not conferred by the Holy

SpiritSpirit– Not ‘grown’ suddenly and miraculously at Not ‘grown’ suddenly and miraculously at

baptismbaptism– Nor can it be programmed like a computerNor can it be programmed like a computer

Development of it must be a free-will Development of it must be a free-will responseresponse

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What then makes it ‘What then makes it ‘of the of the Spirit Spirit ’?’?

Because it results from the Because it results from the influence of the influence of the Spirit WordSpirit Word

8383

Parallel PhrasesParallel Phrases

““mind of the Spirit”mind of the Spirit” Romans 8:27Romans 8:27

““spiritually minded”spiritually minded” Romans 8:6Romans 8:6

[minding] “[minding] “the things of the Spirit”the things of the Spirit” Romans 8:5Romans 8:5

““mind of Christ”mind of Christ” 1 Cor. 2:16; Phil. 2:51 Cor. 2:16; Phil. 2:5

““Spirit of Christ”Spirit of Christ” Romans 8:9Romans 8:9

““Spirit of life in Christ Jesus”Spirit of life in Christ Jesus” Romans 8:2Romans 8:2

““Walk in the Spirit”Walk in the Spirit” Galatians 5:16Galatians 5:16

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The Mind of Christ = The Mind of Christ = Fruit of SpiritFruit of Spirit

““love one another as I have love one another as I have LOVED LOVED you”you” John 15:12John 15:12““that my that my JOY JOY might remain in you”might remain in you” John 15:11John 15:11““my my PEACE PEACE I give unto you”I give unto you” John 14:27John 14:27““Jesus Christ might shew forth all Jesus Christ might shew forth all LONGSUFFERINGLONGSUFFERING” ” 1 1

Tim. 1:16Tim. 1:16“…“…the Lord the Lord [Jesus] [Jesus] is gracious is gracious [Gr. [Gr. chrestos, chrestos, KIND = KIND =

gentlenessgentleness]] 1 Peter 2:31 Peter 2:3“ “ Can there come any Can there come any GOOD GOOD thing come out of Nazareth?... thing come out of Nazareth?...

Come and see”Come and see” John 1:4John 1:4

““Christ Jesus who was Christ Jesus who was FAITHFUL FAITHFUL to him that to him that Heb. 3:2 Heb. 3:2 appointed him”appointed him”

““by the by the MEEKNESS MEEKNESS and gentleness of Christ”and gentleness of Christ” 2 2 Cor. 10:1Cor. 10:1

““Every man Every man [includes Christ] [includes Christ] that striveth for mastery is that striveth for mastery is TEMPERATE TEMPERATE in all things” in all things” 1 Cor. 9:251 Cor. 9:25

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LOVELOVE ( (agape)agape)

What is ISN’T?What is ISN’T?– It isn’t the love the world knows.It isn’t the love the world knows.– It isn’t It isn’t philia philia (friendship, affection, (friendship, affection,

romantic)romantic)– It isn’t It isn’t eros eros (physical passion)(physical passion)– It is not superficial or something you can It is not superficial or something you can

turn on and off andturn on and off and– It doesn’t come naturally.It doesn’t come naturally.

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What What Agape Agape is… is…

It is best defined through its It is best defined through its illustration in Scripture – for all the Law illustration in Scripture – for all the Law is fulfilled in itis fulfilled in it

It is ultimately exemplified in Yahweh It is ultimately exemplified in Yahweh and His Son.and His Son.

It is transcendent.It is transcendent. It is practical - a sound It is practical - a sound

and workable approach and workable approach to daily living to daily living

Heaven (God)

Christ

Earth (us)

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Love for our brethren should Love for our brethren should be…be…

Of a higher order than those outside Of a higher order than those outside the Truth the Truth (Gal. 6:10)(Gal. 6:10)– It can (and should) be better expressed It can (and should) be better expressed

among fellow believers than between among fellow believers than between believer and unbeliever.believer and unbeliever.

– Our love for those who love the things we Our love for those who love the things we love will naturally be greater.love will naturally be greater.

A form of witness to the world A form of witness to the world (John (John 13:35)13:35)

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““Swear not at all”Swear not at all”

““But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”ye fall into condemnation.” James 5:12James 5:12

Jesus warns not to swear at all – take no oaths or Jesus warns not to swear at all – take no oaths or commit to anything we are unable to follow through commit to anything we are unable to follow through with. with. “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil” evil” Matt. 5:33-37Matt. 5:33-37

8989

Everyday “Swear” WordsEveryday “Swear” Words

““My Goodness”My Goodness” ““Good Gracious”Good Gracious” ““Good Heavens”Good Heavens” ““Gosh” or “Oh My Gosh”Gosh” or “Oh My Gosh” ““Geez” (Jesus)Geez” (Jesus) ““Jiminy Cricket” (Jesus Christ)Jiminy Cricket” (Jesus Christ) ““Cripes” (Christ)Cripes” (Christ)

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Swearing – A Social DiseaseSwearing – A Social Disease

Can be caught like a common cold.Can be caught like a common cold. A strong social acceptance factor is A strong social acceptance factor is

involved.involved. But, believers must resist it. Why?But, believers must resist it. Why? It displeases and even devalues Yahweh.It displeases and even devalues Yahweh. It is a sign of emotional immaturity.It is a sign of emotional immaturity. A lack of ability to express strong feeling A lack of ability to express strong feeling

in any other way.in any other way.

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Temperance and GodTemperance and God

Yahweh exhibits the controlled strength of Yahweh exhibits the controlled strength of meekness (the last Fruit considered) to meekness (the last Fruit considered) to perfection. perfection.

Temperance works alongside His meekness Temperance works alongside His meekness as part of His character.as part of His character.

God is not given to God is not given to uncontrolleduncontrolled use of His use of His power and is extremely sparing in His power and is extremely sparing in His omnipotence.omnipotence.

Lessons for us if we are to share in His Lessons for us if we are to share in His character?character?

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““I think, therefore I am”I think, therefore I am”

French philosopher – French philosopher –

Rene’ DescartesRene’ Descartes ““Cogito, ergo sum”Cogito, ergo sum” Two choices:Two choices:

– ““I I thinkthink, therefore I am…, therefore I am…evilevil” or” or– ““I I thinkthink, therefore I am…, therefore I am…goodgood””

Which mode of thinking applies to us?Which mode of thinking applies to us?

9393

Progress

Aspect of Fruit Little or None

1

Beginning to see it

manifested 2

Significant but still often

lacking 3

Evident majority of

time 4

There or almost there in my “being”

5 Love Joy Peace Longsuffering Kindness Goodness Faith Meekness Temperance

Doing Doing & Being Being

9494

FAITHFAITH

The only fruit that is defined in The only fruit that is defined in Scripture.Scripture.

““Now faith is the substance of things Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”seen”

Hebrews 11:1Hebrews 11:1

But, what does this meaning really But, what does this meaning really mean?mean?

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Faith and WorksFaith and Works James James 2:182:18

““Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew my thy faith without works, and I will shew thee shew my thy faith without works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”my faith by my works.”

NotNot a doctrine of salvation by works but… a doctrine of salvation by works but… A doctrine of salvation by faith that inevitably A doctrine of salvation by faith that inevitably

leads leads to works.to works. Works are not the goal.Works are not the goal. Fruit of the Spirit is the goal and works are Fruit of the Spirit is the goal and works are

outcome of developing of the fruit – outcome of developing of the fruit – especially faith.especially faith.

““by works was faith made perfect”by works was faith made perfect” James 2:22James 2:22

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Box 2Box 2

Faith Faith ==

1

The Substance

The Evidence

of

of

2

Things hoped for

Things not seen

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Things hoped forThings hoped for

The return of ChristThe return of Christ Resurrection Resurrection ImmortalityImmortality The Kingdom of God establishedThe Kingdom of God established

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Faith in our own salvationFaith in our own salvation

Believing in the salvation of others is much Believing in the salvation of others is much easier than our own.easier than our own.

Difference is that we know ourselves only too Difference is that we know ourselves only too well, especially our ‘shadow selves’.well, especially our ‘shadow selves’.

But, Yahweh is pleased in progress we gain for But, Yahweh is pleased in progress we gain for the fruit of the Spirit and the development the fruit of the Spirit and the development thereof.thereof.

The only true failure is to believe you have no The only true failure is to believe you have no hope.hope.

People with real faith affect those around them People with real faith affect those around them in direct and indirect ways.in direct and indirect ways.

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MEEKNESS MEEKNESS

Greek: Greek: Praotes – Praotes – gentle, mild and graciousgentle, mild and gracious But it does not connote weakness or timidity in But it does not connote weakness or timidity in

the way the world would consider meekness.the way the world would consider meekness. Biblically defined as Biblically defined as gentle, controlled strengthgentle, controlled strength True meekness as a fruit of the Spirit can only True meekness as a fruit of the Spirit can only

be developed as a characteristic of believers. It be developed as a characteristic of believers. It can never come naturally.can never come naturally.

It arises from the strength and security we It arises from the strength and security we have in trusting Yahweh.have in trusting Yahweh.

It grows within as a result of our continued It grows within as a result of our continued delight and meditation in the Word.delight and meditation in the Word.

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The Supreme ExampleThe Supreme Example

The Almighty Himself is the greatest example The Almighty Himself is the greatest example of meekness.of meekness.

He is “controlled strength” in the ultimate He is “controlled strength” in the ultimate sense of the term.sense of the term.

THE Creator and Sustainer of the Universe -THE Creator and Sustainer of the Universe -Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent and Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent and Glorious beyond our comprehension.Glorious beyond our comprehension.

Yet is mindful of us here on this earth and Yet is mindful of us here on this earth and shown His love to us in many ways more shown His love to us in many ways more than we could expect or deserve.than we could expect or deserve.

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The Meekness of ChristThe Meekness of Christ

His life exemplified ‘controlled strength’His life exemplified ‘controlled strength’– From the time of temptation in the wildernessFrom the time of temptation in the wilderness– Slipping away from those who threatened to kill him Slipping away from those who threatened to kill him

though he had the power to deal with themthough he had the power to deal with them– To his last entry into Jerusalem, riding on a lowly To his last entry into Jerusalem, riding on a lowly

animal; hearing the cheers of many who would call animal; hearing the cheers of many who would call for his deathfor his death

– And finally to be crucified as a common criminal.And finally to be crucified as a common criminal.

Jesus resisted the temptation to use his power Jesus resisted the temptation to use his power and acknowledged the source of it.and acknowledged the source of it.

And in this knowledge lies the secret of our And in this knowledge lies the secret of our meekness.meekness.

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The “Meekness” of ManThe “Meekness” of Man

Yet, mankind is so ‘self-important’!Yet, mankind is so ‘self-important’! In reality, he has “much to be modest In reality, he has “much to be modest

about”.about”. But, human nature admires self-reliance and But, human nature admires self-reliance and

assertiveness.assertiveness. If only, more people were spiritually ‘strong If only, more people were spiritually ‘strong

enough’ to be meek!enough’ to be meek! The greatest barrier to having Biblical The greatest barrier to having Biblical

meekness is the fear that it will appear to meekness is the fear that it will appear to others as natural weakness.others as natural weakness.

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God-relianceGod-reliance

A Biblically meek person realizes the affairs of his or A Biblically meek person realizes the affairs of his or her life are in no one’s hands but God’s.her life are in no one’s hands but God’s.

Meekness is God-reliance not self-reliance.Meekness is God-reliance not self-reliance. Meekness is not weak, isolated or dependent on self.Meekness is not weak, isolated or dependent on self. He/she is therefore strong and connected as a child of He/she is therefore strong and connected as a child of

Yahweh but at the same time, independent in the Yahweh but at the same time, independent in the sense of John 8:32 … sense of John 8:32 …

““The truth shall make you free”The truth shall make you free”– Free from sin and its attendant anxieties.Free from sin and its attendant anxieties.– Free from the cares of this life; knowing the security and Free from the cares of this life; knowing the security and

strength of being in Christ.strength of being in Christ.

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Biblically-meek person…Biblically-meek person…

Doesn’t need to prove anything or impress Doesn’t need to prove anything or impress anyone for…anyone for…– behavior such as bragging is a sign of insecurity behavior such as bragging is a sign of insecurity

and not real meeknessand not real meekness His/her first priority is what God thinks and His/her first priority is what God thinks and

so…so… Radiates a quiet God-confidence knowing the Radiates a quiet God-confidence knowing the

outcome of everything is in His handsoutcome of everything is in His hands For they have a deep trust that at the same For they have a deep trust that at the same

time brings humilitytime brings humility– Recognizing that what He decides is the Recognizing that what He decides is the best for usbest for us

is not always what we would have expectedis not always what we would have expected– And reason for always saying and thinking “God And reason for always saying and thinking “God

willing”willing” (see James 4:13-16)(see James 4:13-16)

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A Life of MeeknessA Life of Meekness

Biblical meekness is a valuable asset in Biblical meekness is a valuable asset in every facet of life…every facet of life…– At home, At home, – at school, at school, – in the ecclesia, in the ecclesia, – daily activities: chores, errands, daily activities: chores, errands,

appointments appointments And especially at work (And especially at work (“as to the Lord”“as to the Lord”), ),

preaching to others and instructing preaching to others and instructing believers we believe are in error.believers we believe are in error.

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Blessed are the meekBlessed are the meek

Blessed are –Blessed are –1.1. The poor in spiritThe poor in spirit2.2. They that mournThey that mourn3.3. The meekThe meek4.4. They which hunger and They which hunger and

thirst after righteousnessthirst after righteousness5.5. The mercifulThe merciful6.6. The pure in heartThe pure in heart7.7. The peacemakersThe peacemakers8.8. The persecuted for The persecuted for

righteousnessrighteousness9.9. The reviled, falsely The reviled, falsely

accused, for Christ – accused, for Christ – rejoice, be glad.rejoice, be glad.

The fruit of the Spirit The fruit of the Spirit is –is –

LongsufferingLongsufferingFaithFaithMeeknessMeeknessTemperanceTemperance

LoveLoveGoodnessGoodnessPeacePeaceGentlenessGentleness

JoyJoy

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““Rejoice in that day and leap for Rejoice in that day and leap for joyjoy””

““Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptationsCount it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations” ” James 1:2James 1:2

““Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you, and shall reproach you, and cast they shall separate you, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for behold your reward is ye in that day, and leap for joy: for behold your reward is great in heavengreat in heaven…” …” Luke Luke 6:22-236:22-23

““Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hat promised to them that love himLord hat promised to them that love him” ” James 1:12James 1:12

Joy is our best defense against trials and Joy is our best defense against trials and temptations!temptations!

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The Laodicean GAP (The Laodicean GAP (Rev. 3:15-Rev. 3:15-17)17)

They thought they were They thought they were

““rich, and increased with goods rich, and increased with goods

and had need of nothingand had need of nothing””

THE GAP THE GAP ((lukewarmnesslukewarmness))

Christ said “Christ said “thou artthou art neither cold nor hot, neither cold nor hot,

……poor, and blind, and nakedpoor, and blind, and naked””

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Spiritual Clothing Spiritual Clothing

“ “Put onPut on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsufferingmeekness, longsuffering. Forbearing one another, and . Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another… And forgiving one another… And above allabove all these things these things put put onon charity charity [[lovelove: agape: agape] ] which is the bond of which is the bond of perfectness. And perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your let the peace of God rule in your heartshearts…”…” Col. 3:12-15Col. 3:12-15

Restatement of many aspects of the fruit of the SpiritRestatement of many aspects of the fruit of the Spirit Equivalent to white raiment that Christ wanted the Equivalent to white raiment that Christ wanted the

Laodiceans to put on to cover their spiritual nakednessLaodiceans to put on to cover their spiritual nakedness Only putting off the old, filthy garments will leave one in Only putting off the old, filthy garments will leave one in

the Gap.the Gap.

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““But the fruit of the spirit But the fruit of the spirit is…is…

Love,Love,Joy,Joy,Peace,Peace,Longsuffering,Longsuffering,Gentleness,Gentleness,Goodness,Goodness,Faith,Faith,Meekness,Meekness,TemperanceTemperance,,against such there is no law”against such there is no law”

Galatians 5:22-23Galatians 5:22-23