Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is …

What Does this Mean?

This is of course the holy spirit:

Power of God 2 Timothy 1:7; Acts 1:8
Nature of God John 4:24
Mind of God 1 Corinthians 2:11-12,16

We are Given it for a Reason

He gives to us a portion with the expectation that we do something with it. We need to be evaluating our use of the spirit to make sure that we are producing fruit!

Matthew 7:17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
Matthew 7:18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.
Matthew 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

Matthew 12:33 “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.

We are Expected to Grow

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
Galatians 6:8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

There are Consequences if We do not…

Luke 13:6 He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none.
Luke 13:7 Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’
Luke 13:8 But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it.
Luke 13:9 And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’ “

When God gives this to us, He anticipates growth.

…and Grow a Great Deal

John 15:8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

This is also the lessons of the talents (Matthew 25) and pounds (Luke 19).

We are being Transformed

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Ephesians 4:22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts,
Ephesians 4:23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,
Ephesians 4:24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

Meaning of this Time of the Year

It is a time to evaluate ourselves:

Ephesians 5:14 Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.”
Ephesians 5:15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,
Ephesians 5:16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Ephesians 5:17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

[Why Count 50?]

Are We Walking in the Spirit?

Galatians 5:16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.

Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

We should be using the spirit of God to guide us.

Fruit, not Fruits

Must have all of them and grow in all of them

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Growth Comes from Obedience

Acts 5:32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit which God has given to those who obey Him.”

Love

Different types of love: brotherly, motherly, spousal, Godly

Romans 5:5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which was given to us.

This is a huge topic – it encapsulates and is the basis for all the other qualities.

God is Love

1 John 4:8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.

Everything that comes from God has its basis in LOVE – everything that He says and does

1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

It should be the basis for all of our actions toward others.

2 John 1:6 This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.

1 John 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments.

WHY is that “we know?” We can first take the statement at face value. You cannot say that you love the children of God and not keep the commandments. The reason is that the latter six of the commandments deal with our love toward the children of God or toward our fellow man.

This might help us now understand the next verse a bit better:

1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.

1 John 3:18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

This is the real key, there is an action that goes with belief; there is a walk that goes with the talk.

As we have opportunity we are to do good to all, especially the brethren. We are to esteem them better than our selves and not just look out for our own interests but theirs as well.

The love that we are talking about here is not a feeling that we have or muster up, it is most importantly an action that we demonstrate towards others.

This the purpose of this series: if we have God’s holy spirit, then there is fruit that shows that we have God in us. This fruit is evidenced by action! The questions that we are to be asking all along the way is am I showing, in this case love? What is the proof?

Matthew 22:36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?”
Matthew 22:37 Jesus said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’
Matthew 22:38 This is the first and great commandment.
Matthew 22:39 And the second is like it: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’
Matthew 22:40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

This is what the all the Law given and all that the prophets have said is based upon.

Matthew 4:4 But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.’ ” (This is quoted from Deuteronomy 8:3)

(LITV) All Scripture is God-breathed [all of it comes from His mouth] 2 Timothy 3:16

God and Christ Set the Example for Us

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

John 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.
John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
John 15:12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.
John 15:14 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.

Christ gave His life for us to the greatest degree possible. We are to follow His example. We are to give our lives for others. At this point we get to do this by sacrificing our time and effort for them.

Good Works Lists in Extra Section 1 Corinthians 13 etc

Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

There is no end to the love that is needed or that we can give. See a need fill a need!

James 2:15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food,
James 2:16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?

Joy

Like love, joy can be expressed in several ways and/or at different levels: situational, relational, spiritual (Godly, the one that we will be focusing on mostly).

If you have the holy spirit then you MUST be happy. Not only does God want you to be happy but He EXPECTS you to be filled with joy

Pleasures

What is the difference between pleasure and happiness, which most people confuse.

Luke 8:14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity.

Titus 3:3 For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.

hēdonē hay-don-ay’ (to please); sensual delight; by implication desire: – lust, pleasure.

People are looking for things to fill their life and give it meaning and purpose and these things do just the opposite. They rob your life from you and the possibility of joy. They come and go – they are fleeting.

Luke 12:15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

They are looking for things to make their life better, to be able to cope with their problems and the state of their life.

Here is What our Perspective Should Be

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:

state… condition; some times we have and others we do not

Not that I speak in regard to need,

Paul is saying that he has learned…which brings us to the next point: This is something that is learned.

Paul learned that God meets his needs. God knows best.

Matthew 6:8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

Matthew 6:31-32 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

It is not natural for us to be this way. Through prayer, meditation, Bible study, fasting – in conjunction with the power of the holy spirit we can learn this.

Paul continues:

in whatever state I am,

1 Corinthians 4:11-12 To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. 12 And we labor, working with our own hands [not servants doing the work]. [And what was there attitude; how did they respond] Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure;

Paul went through many other trials as well (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). See Philippians 1:20

to be content…

1) sufficient for one’s self, strong enough or processing enough to need no aid or support

2) contented with one’s lot, with one’s means

Sufficient with the state we find ourself in; the state that we find our self in should be sufficient.

God is saying through Paul here that our ability to be happy should have nothing to do with the circumstances we find ourselves in!

What a powerful statement this is when we consider the World that we now live in.

Philippians 4:12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

Because of his outlook in Philippians 4:11 Paul says that in whatever PHYSICAL state we find ourselves, we can be in a CONTENTED frame of mind.

Satisfying the desires of your heart will not bring true long term happiness, but rather contentment comes with the realization that God, in his infinite wisdom, compassion, mercy and love has allowed us to be exactly where we are at this moment in time.

Notice How Jesus Did It

We are to do the same.

James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
James 1:3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
James 1:4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

With this kind of perspective and outlook we can be joyful all the time, even during trials, correction, poverty, etc

Matthew 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.
Matthew 5:12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Where to Find Joy

Put God in Our Lives

God wants to be a part of our lives as our Father. We need to seek Him while He may be found.

Ecclesiastes 2:26 For God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight….

Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Proverbs 28:14 Happy is the man who is always reverent, But he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity.

Joy comes from God but we have our part:

1 John 1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life—
1 John 1:2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—
1 John 1:3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.

Word of God

Joy comes from the words in your Bible. God made us and gave us an instruction manual, In it is everything that we need to know to live a joyous life

Proverbs 3:13 Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;

Gospel

Luke 2:10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings [same word that is translated gospel elsewhere] of great joy which will be to all people.

The Law

Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But happy is he who keeps the law.

Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

Psalms 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.
Sin, the breaking of the law, brings punishments and penalties with it. If we break the law and run a red light, it can bring about fines or even death. God’s law in effect puts up red lights and green lights for us – in much the same, if we break them a penalty will occur

Psalms 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

New Testament:

We get to be free of pain and heartache and sorrow and all that goes with being sinful.

In our Relationships

2 Corinthians 7:2 Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one.
2 Corinthians 7:3 I do not say this to condemn; for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together.
2 Corinthians 7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.
2 Corinthians 7:5 For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears.
2 Corinthians 7:6 Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus,
2 Corinthians 7:7 and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more.
2 Corinthians 7:8 For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while.
2 Corinthians 7:9 Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing.
2 Corinthians 7:10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
2 Corinthians 7:11 For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
2 Corinthians 7:12 Therefore, although I wrote to you, I did not do it for the sake of him who had done the wrong, nor for the sake of him who suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you.
2 Corinthians 7:13 Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.
2 Corinthians 7:14 For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true.
2 Corinthians 7:15 And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him.
2 Corinthians 7:16 Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.

Everyone was rejoicing!

3 John 1:3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth.
3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

1 Corinthians 12:23 And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty,
1 Corinthians 12:24 but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it,
1 Corinthians 12:25 that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.
1 Corinthians 12:26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
1 Corinthians 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.

2 Corinthians 1:24 Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.

Colossians 1:24 I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church,

A Way of Life

Philippians 1:25 And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, [joy in the faith].

1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always,
1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing,
1 Thessalonians 5:18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

The Hope of the Future

Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

We Have Help

And if we think that we cannot do this, then remember:

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Romans 5:10 For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
Romans 5:11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Peace

3^rd of the fruit of the spirit of God. If we have God’s spirit, then we must be at peace and growing in it.

We will continue to see how all the fruit of the spirit are linked and intertwined and why you cannot have some without the others.

Lack of War

War on Terrorism, Afghanistan, Somalia, Yemen – the only thing I really know about these places is war. US involvement is overseas, does that mean that we are at peace? No, the absence of war is not peace.

Even though we do not have a military war at our shores or on our land does not mean that our lives will be tranquil or serene – in fact our lives are getting less and less peaceful.

All throughout history, nations and their governments have been striving for this! It has all been in vain.

Isaiah 59:8 The way of peace they have not known, And there is no justice in their ways; They have made themselves crooked paths; Whoever takes that way shall not know peace.

In the future we will learn war no more, but that will not be enough – peace will have to be taught and learned.

Peace with others physically, mentally/emotionally (peace of mind). But most importantly the Peace of God (next level).

True Peace Comes from God

It is a fruit or product of the holy spirit

2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all.

His Message to the World (Gospel)

Romans 10:15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF PEACE, WHO BRING GLAD TIDINGS OF GOOD THINGS!”

Peace Does Not Just Happen

State of Mind

The Peace of God begins in our mind with the giving of the holy spirit

James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
James 3:18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

We have to be willing to be led by God and His power.

Spirit Led

We must become A SPIRIT LED INDIVIDUAL.

Romans 8:5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.
Romans 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.
Romans 8:8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

We must study and seek God’s help and guidance – asking Him to show us the way to true peace. Showing us what to think upon and how to think:

The Right Mind Set

Part of that answer is found here:

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Philippians 4:9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

We are to live by these words and every other word of God, so it should come as no surprise that the keeping the law and peacefulness go hand in hand.

Law of God

Psalms 119:165 Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.

Proverbs 3:1 My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands;
Proverbs 3:2 For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you.

There is an anxiety that goes with breaking the law and having the consequences of it hanging over your head.

Wait till your father gets home
Policeman’s red and blue lights in the rear view mirror
Mess up at work and you are waiting for the boss to call you in

The same is true for the law of God which is given for our good. If we keep it we will have peace, if we kill someone or steal from our neighbor, you not only rob them, but yourself of peace as well.

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

Law, and Authority Law without Authority would produce anarchy. Authority without Law would be despotism and tyranny. Neither would be Peaceful!

How to put this into Practice

Be a peace maker

Make peace Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.

We have a greater responsibility than just sitting back and being quiet especially when problems

exist that involve us directly. If we expect to be in the KOG we must actively make peace and make every effort to do what leads to peace.

Prayer

Prayer a good place to start as we all know – it’s not to be underestimated.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

the peace of God… that comes through prayer

surpasses all understanding… it is a gift that God gives to us that we cannot come to on our own – especially in this day and age. As a Christian knowing the turmoil that is going on in the world now and the tribulation to come – some of it into our lives – we can still have a quietness and calmness in our hearts and minds because this peace:

All Who are in Authority

Another way to have more peace in our lives:

1 Timothy 2:1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
1 Timothy 2:2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
1 Timothy 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

Relationships

This is what the Bible is mostly all about. Our relationship with God and our relationships with our fellow man: Spouse, brothers, sisters, parents, friends, neighbors, co-workers etc..

Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:

HOW do we make peace in the relationships in our lives?

Romans 14:19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.

These are found in the pages of your Bible when you diligently look for them and study them.

Example: Matthew 18 [scripture as a whole tells us how to get along with everyone and Matthew 18 shows us how to reconcile with them when we mess up].

The peacemaker talked about in Matthew 5:9 is not a third person but one of the two. One of the two

involved in the discrepancy. Peace comes with oneness of mind, heart and life not twoness.

Seek Peace

Let me put this another way: Do Good Not Bad

Psalms 34:14 Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.

1 Peter 3:11 LET HIM TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; LET HIM SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.

Romans 12:17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
Romans 12:19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.
Romans 12:20 Therefore “IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM; IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP COALS OF FIRE ON HIS HEAD.”
Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Can we see how this would make peace and not perpetuate a conflict like the Hatfields and McCoys?

Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;

God set war or peace before them, His way of doing things or Satan’s. They chose poorly. The question is how will we choose.

The Result

What is the consequence or effect of living this way of life?

We get to enjoy the fruit of exercising God’s spirit in us. Peace from war. Peace of mind. Exemption from the rage and havoc of war and not following God’s way of life.

We get to be quiet, at ease, well, still, prosperous, safe, healthy, tranquil, content in all our ways: relationships; work; daily life; persecution; trials, etc.

These conditions can only come when we have implemented Peace.

Relates to the Kingdom of God

Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Romans 14:18 For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.
Romans 14:19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.

Peace Conclusion

We are making the greatest contribution toward world peace in our time!

We have been given a vision for the the future and the 1000 year reign of Christ on Earth. So that we may instruct all nations in the way of peace during the next 1000 years! — the Millennium!

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Let’s use God’s spirit to Make peace dynamic, real, and working by putting peace into practice ourselves.

Longsuffering

Defined as: patience, steadfastness, constancy, endurance.

It is a characteristic of God; (thankfully)

Psalms 86:15 But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.

We are to Be Like God

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

We need to imitate God in this regard. We need to learn to be patient with others as God is with them and us; be patient with what God is doing with each of us.

We have His spirit and naturally if should be one of our characteristics as well. We need to be the same way as God with other people and situations we find ourselves in.

Why Be Patient?

Romans 15:5 Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus,

Being patient with others shows understanding and kindness and gentleness and meekness and love and goodness and makes for peacefulness. It shows the kind of understanding that we would want in the same situation – it is the golden rule. It is a understanding of the fact that we all have weaknesses and that we all have different strengths and abilities (talents) and that we all grow at different speeds and to different levels and that we all have sins and faults of our own that are hidden to us (like Job). Can we truly understand other’s problems when we don’t even understand our own? Isn’t incumbent upon us to be patient then?

James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,

This was at a time when men like Stephen were being martyred and as we read before, the apostles being beaten for preaching Christ (Acts 7 and Acts 5).

count it all joy … We know that God is working in us to bring about change for the positive and good. And we should be good with that and at peace with it. And if we are then:

Do we see this progression in our life? Do you see now why we rejoice in tribulations – it is because of where it leads!

He does it for our good and often allows it even though He could intervene.

James 1:3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

The testing builds: patience… cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy; builds it in a good way; steadfast in working towards a purpose;

James 1:4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

perfect… complete, lacking nothing… this is the path of success for the Christian. This is the necessary way for us to grow in holy righteous character.

James 5:7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.

James 5:8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

brethren… James is speaking to us as Christians, this is his audience here.

patient…wait… Establish your hearts… Do not be focused on the riches of the world, but rather the coming of the Lord.

Psalms 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; Psalm 27:14 Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage…

If we do, we will be able to tolerate the things that we must go through until the very end.

James 5:10 My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.

Examples of Ezekiel laid on his side for 390+40; Jeremiah, preached to Judah for 40 years.

Jeremiah 20:7 O LORD, You induced me, and I was persuaded; You are stronger than I, and have prevailed. I am in derision daily; Everyone mocks me.

…and the list goes on

as an example of suffering and patience….

Philippians 1:29 For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,

1 Peter 2:19-21 Of course Jesus went through untold suffering – This is also what we are called to.

James 5:11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

blessed who endure … Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

perseverance of Job… great book to read if you are going through a severe trial and need encouragement.

seen the end intended by the Lord… there was a reason for God doing what He was doing and it all works out for the good!

What was God’s purpose with putting Job through a trial of this magnitude? God is Changing Who We Are and He knows that We HAVE to Suffer Long. It is For the Perfecting of our Character to make us in the express image of God. He is Intimately Involved in the process with us to the End.

This is why we are to be patient!

Romans 5:3-4 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Do you see now why you glory in tribulations? It is because of where it leads; it is our opportunity to grow – in this case in patience and longsuffering.

This is Part of Our Calling

Ephesians 4:1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,
Ephesians 4:2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,
Ephesians 4:3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit [if we all have the same spirit then we should be able to get along – we have to get along together in unity, harmony and peace] in the bond of peace.

Walk implies actions. Another one of the ways in that we suffer long and practice patience is by:

Putting Up with People

We need to learn to put up with people

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; [how:].
Colossians 3:13 bearing [Greek: putting up with] with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.
Colossians 3:14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

We do this in the relationships that we were talking about previously: Spouse, brothers, sisters, parents, friends, neighbors, co-workers etc..everyone in other words. This is what life and the Bible are about – our relationships with others.

This Quality is Essential for Salvation

Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

Noah spent 120 years building the ark: Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. [mankind was saved because of His patient continuance]

Joseph sold into slavery and jailed for years: Genesis 50:20 But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. [The 70 of the house of Jacob; that turned into over 2 million people in time, because Joseph suffered and endured ]

Moses 40 years then 40 more then 40 more saving the Israelites and bringing them to the promised land. [because of his patience the 2.5M Israelites were saved out of Egypt and brought to the promised land]

We have not necessarily been called to endure to this degree, but we are asked to work at being patient if we expect to get to the promised land – that is the KOG.

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
Hebrews 12:2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Hebrews 12:4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.

Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Romans 2:6 who “WILL RENDER TO EACH ONE ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS”:

We will be rewarded according to our works:

Romans 2:7 eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;

We are to keep on keeping on….

Romans 8:25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.

We have the Hope of the resurrection, of salvation, of eternal life, of His calling, of His Glory, of His Gospel – is this not worth it? If it is then let’s press toward the goal and endure the race that is set in front of us.

Kindness

Kindness, goodness very similar as we will see

Galatians 5:22-23 kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness….
Galatians 5:22-23 gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness [KJV]

chrēstotēs moral excellence and goodness(in character or demeanor): – gentleness, good (-ness), kindness.

agathōsunē goodness, that is, virtue or beneficence “good” (in any sense) [even in correction and discipline].

Hebrews 12:6 FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVES HE CHASTENS, AND SCOURGES EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVES.”

Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Romans 11:22 Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off.

We see the meaning of the word more clearly here as it is contrasted with severity. God is good and kind (chrestos). But God is also good (agathos) and severe at times.

The NKJV does not use gentleness which is similar because it is used later in a better and more appropriate way. In the English language there is an overlap of the meanings which is fine, it shows how they all are integrated and essential fruit of the holy spirit.

chrēstotēs: KJV Occurrences: 10

gentleness, Galatians 5:22 kindness 2 Corinthians 6:6, Ephesians 2:7, Colossians 3:12, Titus 3:4

goodness, 4 Romans 2:3-4 (2), Romans 11:22 (3) good, Romans 3:12

God is Kind

And of course Christ is…

1 Peter 2:1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,
1 Peter 2:2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,
1 Peter 2:3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Christos en chrestos (perhaps a play on words) nonetheless Christ is kind, gracious and good

however that is not the way that WE are naturally:

Good, 1 Romans 3:12

Romans 3:10 As it is written: “THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NO, NOT ONE;
Romans 3:11 THERE IS NONE WHO UNDERSTANDS; THERE IS NONE WHO SEEKS AFTER GOD.
Romans 3:12 THEY HAVE ALL TURNED ASIDE; THEY HAVE TOGETHER BECOME UNPROFITABLE; THERE IS NONE WHO DOES GOOD [chrestotes], NO, NOT ONE.”

Psalms 14:1 To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. The fool has said in his heart,”There is no God.” They are corrupt, They have done abominable works, There is none who does good.
Psalms 14:2 The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
Psalms 14:3 They have all turned aside, They have together become corrupt; There is none who does good, No, not one.

Psalms 53:1 … The fool has said in his heart,”There is no God.” They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity; There is none who does good.

God saved us from this way of life by the kindness He showed toward us:

Titus 3:3 For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
Titus 3:4 But when the kindness [chrestotes] and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared,
Titus 3:5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
Titus 3:6 which He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior,

It is by this kindness of His that He leads us to repentance:

Romans 2:4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness [chrestotes] of God leads you to repentance?

Here it shows how God ACTS toward us – it is with kindness that He leads us. It is not just by the fact that God is good that we repent. It is the helpful manner in which He leads us that direction.

Now that God has set the example for us AND given us His spirit, there is the expectation that we are to act like God:

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness [chrestotes], humility, meekness, longsuffering;
Colossians 3:13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

Through the spirit we are to produce this fruit of kindness

Ephesians 4:32 And be kind [chrestos] to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

1 Corinthians 13:4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;

chrēsteuomai from [chrestos]; to act benevolently: – be kind.

This kindness is an action:

Matthew 25:31 “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.
Matthew 25:32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.
Matthew 25:33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
Matthew 25:34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
Matthew 25:35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;
Matthew 25:36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’
Matthew 25:37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?
Matthew 25:38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
Matthew 25:39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’
Matthew 25:40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
Matthew 25:41 “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:
Matthew 25:42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink;
Matthew 25:43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’
Matthew 25:44 “Then they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’
Matthew 25:45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’
Matthew 25:46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

God wants us to be useful, He wants us to put the spirit that He gave us to work:

It is interesting that the word chrestotes and chrestos finds it etymology in the words “usefulness” and “useful” meaning it is good for its intended purpose.

Luke 5:39 And no one, having drunk old wine, immediately desires new; for he says, ‘The old is better.’ [chrestos] “

Matthew 11:30 For My yoke is easy [chrestos] and My burden is light.”

It is good for its intended purpose – so we see how it is useful and in much the same way God anticipates that we will be kind or useful to others in this way. It is one of the intended purposes of God’s spirit – that we will exhibit kindness.

We are to give of ourselves to others and bestow kindnesses upon our fellow man.

There are many other words that are translated kind; also there are many acts that are kind without saying kindness is shown; We all have a good idea what it means to be kind; we are to treat others as we would want to be treated; often kindness costs us very little, but a lot of the time it requires of us to give of our resources – whatever that is – time effort etc.

Ephesians 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
Ephesians 2:5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
Ephesians 2:6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
Ephesians 2:7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 6:3 We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed.
2 Corinthians 6:4 But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses,
2 Corinthians 6:5 in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings;
2 Corinthians 6:6 by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love,
2 Corinthians 6:7 by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
2 Corinthians 6:8 by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true;
2 Corinthians 6:9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed;
2 Corinthians 6:10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Goodness

G19 ἀγαθωσύνηagathōsunē ag-ath-o-soo’-nay From G18; goodness, tvirtue or beneficence: – goodness.

Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light
Ephesians 5:9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth),
Ephesians 5:10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.

Inextricably linked like we saw before with love being kindness. Which again is why we are seeing crossover with these two qualities today.

G18 agathos ag-ath-os’ “good” (in any sense); [agathōsunē comes from this word]

In the broadest sense of the word we are to be good and do good.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good [agathos] to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Genesis 50:20 But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.

Psalms 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes.

God is and does Good

This what God is and what He does.

Psalms 119:68 You are good, and do good; Teach me Your statutes.

Psalms 25:8 Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He teaches sinners in the way.

Word of God Defines Goodness

God has revealed to man His word.

Deuteronomy 30:15 “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil,
Deuteronomy 30:16 in that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess.

Deuteronomy 8:3 So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.

Jesus Not Good?

Matthew 19:16 Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?”
Matthew 19:17 So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.

He does not say here that He is not good, but rather says that goodness is attributed to God. And as far as we are concerned, it is because of God in us – hence the reason that we are to produce the fruit of goodness.

So Jesus is saying to the young rich man here that he is not good, BUT if he wants to receive eternal life then keep the commandments which are holy just and good.

Matthew 19:18 He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, ” ‘YOU SHALL NOT MURDER,’ ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,’ ‘YOU SHALL NOT STEAL,’ ‘YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS,’
Matthew 19:19 ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER,’ and, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ “

Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.
Matthew 5:18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from
the law till all is fulfilled.
Matthew 5:19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 19:20 The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?”
Matthew 19:21 Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”
Matthew 19:22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

What He is saying here is that He is not good in and of Himself as a flesh and blood man. BUT with the spirit of God working in Him, He can be good and do good!

We Are Not Good Naturally

Romans 7:12 Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.
Romans 7:13 Has then what is good become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, that it might appear sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that sin through the commandment might become exceedingly sinful.
Romans 7:14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.
Romans 7:15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.
Romans 7:16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good.
Romans 7:17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.
Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.
Romans 7:19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.

We are good because of God/Christ in us

Philemon 1:6 that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Paul wanted Philemon to understand that he was what he was today because of Christ in him. Philemon like all of us started out his journey like we all did as a carnal being. But, because of God working in him by the power of the holy spirit was now filled with goodness.

Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:14 Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

So if we have the holy spirit, we can and have to produce the fruit of goodness

Good Works

Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

How are we to do this? It has to do with our neighbor!

Romans 15:2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.

1 Timothy 6:18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share,
1 Timothy 6:19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Romans 12:20 Therefore “IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM; IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP COALS OF FIRE ON HIS HEAD.”
Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Very similar to kindness!

God is Watching

2 Corinthians 5:9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

Ephesians 6:8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.

Romans 2:6 who “WILL RENDER TO EACH ONE ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS”:
Romans 2:7 eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;

We are to be doing what is right; we are to be living righteously, doing good works!

Luke 6:35 But love [agapao] your enemies, do good [agathopoieo], and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind [chrestos] to the unthankful and evil.

Colossians 1:10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Romans 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.

Acts 11:22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch.
Acts 11:23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.
Acts 11:24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.

2 Thessalonians 1:11 Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,
2 Thessalonians 1:12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Matthew 12:34 Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
Matthew 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

Faith

Many believe that faith is an unsubstantiated and vague feeling that perhaps there is a God and that the Bible is His word

Faith definition: Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Faith is the ASSURANCE that you shall HAVE what you CONFIDENTLY EXPECT and
faith is the EVIDENCE you shall have it, even before you SEE it.

It is not an ill-defined concept that is unclear or uncertain

G4102 πίστις pistis pis’-tis FAITH 239/244 (belief 3 times)

From G3982; persuasion, that is, credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly constancy in such profession; by extension the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself: – assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.

G4100 πιστεύω pisteuō pist-yoo’-o BELIEF 234/250 form of

From G4102; to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), that is, credit; by implication to entrust (especially one’s spiritual well being to Christ): – believe (-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with.

Faith is the noun and belief is the verb form of faith.

Most look at faith like it is a blind faith that you have to take it on faith that it is true – meaning that you really cannot prove it.

God does not expect blind faith:

1 Thessalonians 5:21 Test all things; hold fast what is good.

Faith is most simply what you believe. acceptance that a statement is true or that something exists.

If you believe something you act in accordance with the fact that it is true. It is to believe God and His Word and to act upon it.

It’s not to just believe IN God – this is the most basic standard

James 2:19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!
James 2:20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?

Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.

The evidence of our faith is in our actions! Our works demonstrate our faith!

God is Faithful

1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

So how can it be an ethereal feeling or belief that God exists?

God has acted in a specific way that He will continue in and made promises in the past that He WILL fulfill in the future – this we can take to the bank!

We are to have this same faith!

The Faith of Christ (not just “in” Christ)

Revelation 14:12 Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

It is a gift

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,

We are seeded with a portion of faith

Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

We Must Grow

It comes from God by His spirit in us. It is part of the fruit that we are to be producing. We must continue to grow in it:

Faith comes from the Word of God

Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Faith comes by hearing the word of God. Faith becomes a part of us and the way that we think by the word of God — when it is read or expounded on correctly. Important to hear and listen!

Of course we are hearing the words of God which contain the law, so it stands to reason that faith does not do away with the law.

Law AND Faith

Romans 3:31 Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.

The law is not done away with – it cannot be if faith is to be perfected and lawful works are necessary. A living faith is validated by works, which is the keeping of the law.

Trials

1 Peter 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,
1 Peter 1:7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,
1 Peter 1:8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,
1 Peter 1:9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

Faith is Perfected or Made Complete by Works

James 2:22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect [complete]?

Without works faith is incomplete. All that you have learned from the Bible is not of much good if you do not put it to use.

James 2:17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

We are to be doing works indicative of our faith in order to grow in faith

Faithful in Little, Faithful in Much

We must go above and beyond and if we do:

Matthew 25:20 “So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’
Matthew 25:21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:22 He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’
Matthew 25:23 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:24 “Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.
Matthew 25:25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’
Matthew 25:26 “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.
Matthew 25:27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.
Matthew 25:28 So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
Matthew 25:29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.
Matthew 25:30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.‘

What are we doing with what God gave us?

He gave us His Word, Works to do within those words and testing for the purification and increasing of our faith.

[Necessity of Faith] [Good Works – A Requirement for Salvation]

Gentleness

Definition: mild, that is, (by implication) humble: – meek; mildness of disposition, gentleness of spirit, meekness; gentle.

1 Peter 3:3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—
1 Peter 3:4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.

God is Gentle

Isaiah 40:10 Behold, the Lord GOD shall come with a strong hand, And His arm shall rule for Him; Behold, His reward is with Him, And His work before Him.
Isaiah 40:11 He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, And carry them in His bosom, And gently lead those who are with young.

It should come as no surprise that we find all of the fruit of the spirit as attributes of God. It is His spirit that He gives us and there is only one spirit from God – so if we have it we will act like Him.

Ephesians 4:4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling;
Ephesians 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism;
Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Christ

Matthew 11:29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle [praos] and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:30 For My yoke is easy [chrēstos: kindness] and My burden is light.”

Meek not Weak Examples

Christ

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,
Philippians 2:6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God,
Philippians 2:7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.
Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

Matthew 26:51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.
Matthew 26:52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.
Matthew 26:53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?

Moses

Killed an Egyptian; Went into the dessert for 40 years; God have His spirit to Him (Numbers 11:17, 25)

Numbers 12:3 (Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth.)

Paul

Acts 8:3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.

Acts 9:1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest
Acts 9:2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
Acts 9:3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven.
Acts 9:4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
Acts 9:5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”

Acts 9:20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.
Acts 9:21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?”

Us

1 Timothy 6:11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;
Colossians 3:13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Salvation Depends on it

Matthew 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.
Matthew 5:2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:
Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.
Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.

Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.

Be gentle and act accordingly!

Self-control

[Mastering Self-Control]

It comes with God’s spirit. The word is somewhat counter-intuitive. It is by the power of God in us that we can accomplish what we should, but there is also the aspect of it that we have to accomplish by using and engaging the holy spirit within us.

Definition comes from a word that means to be strong in a thing (masterful), temperate self controlled which is a misnomer because we cannot accomplish this alone. In fact it is evident from the context of Galatians 5:22-23 that it is product of the spirit of God.

Controlling Carnality

Romans 7:8 But sin, taking opportunity by the commandment, produced in me all manner of evil desire. For apart from the law sin was dead.

Romans 7:12 Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.

Romans 7:14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.

This is the Christian battle – the fight for mastery over who and what we are in an effort to become what we should be.

Romans 7:15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.
Romans 7:16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good.
Romans 7:17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.

Personification of human nature

Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.

Our natural self is not righteous; that is why we are to put on the righteousness of God

We cannot do this in and of ourselves, we need the help of God and He gives it to us through His spirit in the form of self control. This is the power that we have to tap into if we want and expect to win this ongoing battle.

Romans 7:19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.
Romans 7:20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.

Our strength alone is not enough.

Romans 7:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Romans 7:24 O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?
Romans 7:25 I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.

There is hope!

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

Because of this change: Romans 7:24-25, we are to walk a different way with the spirit of God in us. We do not walk in the carnal ways that we used to, but now I show Jesus Christ in me through all of my actions

Romans 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

By the power of the spirit of God living in us, we now have the ability to live the right way and no longer be bound to the wrong and have the death penalty looming over us.

To think on and go after the wrong things leads to death, and of course the opposite is true.

Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.
Romans 8:8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

It takes the mind of God in us and the self-control that comes with it to do all that God asks of us.

It Should be God’s Will, Not Ours

self-control – living within the way; moderation/restraint within the bounds

What Does God Want…

Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
Philippians 2:13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

…for us to do His will and not our own.

1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
1 John 2:17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

Example of Christ

Right before His betrayal and subsequent agonizing crucifixion here is what Jesus prayed:

Luke 22:42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”

Is this what we would have done knowing what awaited Christ?

Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Luke 9:23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

Controlling Our Thoughts

James 3:2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.

Lacking self-control is always going to be a continual issue for us, since we are not perfect. But we are to go on to perfection – this is what we are to be shooting for – but there will be bumps along the way.

James 1:14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
James 1:15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

There is lust or desire when the idea is conceived and then after we think on it for too long the sin becomes evident and in the end if it is not overcome it leads to the final death. This is where self-control comes into play – any time before our judgment, we can turn around. The sooner the better!

2 Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
2 Corinthians 10:5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

Conclusion

Galatians 5:24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

If we have buried the old man and have the faith in/of Christ then we will act in a Godly way and produce this Godly fruit.