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The Fruit of the Spirit 01

​Introduction:

         1. The fruit of the Spirit consists of 9 special characteristics listed in Galatians 5:22-23.
         2. To help us better understand and appreciate the importance of bearing the fruit of the Spirit, we are
             beginning a study of these characteristics.
         3. In this lesson we are covering some introductory information.

Discussion:

I.           LET  US  EXAMINE  SEVERAL  INSTRUCTIONS  THAT  RELATE  TO  BEARING  THE  FRUIT  OF
             THE  SPIRIT

         A. Christians are to "be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18).
             1. Being filled with the Spirit is conditional (Romans 8:9-11) -- it is a responsibility that each Christian
                 must fulfill.
             2. Although drunkenness is forbidden, there is a similarity between being filled with alcohol and being
                 filled with the Spirit -- the desire to be filled with both is acquired.
         B. To help us in acquiring the desire to be filled with the Spirit, we must "walk in the Spirit,"
             (Galatians 5:16-17), "live in the Spirit" (Galatians 5:25), and sow "to the Spirit" (Galatians 6:8).

II.          LET  US  EXAMINE  4  PRINCIPLES  THAT  RELATE  TO  BEARING  THE  FRUIT  OF  THE  SPIRIT

         A. First, when we become God's children we are to bear the fruit of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:6-10).
             1. Although many in the world look down on the fruit of the Spirit, God considers these characteristics
                 to be very special.
             2. By bearing the fruit of the Spirit we show that we have turned from darkness to light, and we meet
                 God's approval.
         B. Second, a tree is recognized by the fruit that it bears (Luke 6:43-45).
             1. A good tree bears good fruit, and a bad tree bears bad fruit.
             2. Those who walk in, live in, and sow to the flesh will bear "the works of the flesh" listed in
                 Galatians 5:19-21.
             3. Those who walk in, live in, and sow to the Spirit will bear "the fruit of the Spirit."
         C. Third, the law of sowing and reaping applies to the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 6:7-8).
             1. We can choose to sow to the flesh, or we can choose to sow to the Spirit.
             2. We will reap on the basis of how we sow.
         D. Fourth, Christ requires His followers to bear much fruit (John 15:8).
             1. Bearing much fruit glorifies God.
             2. It also identifies us as the Lord's followers.