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The Fruit of the Spirit 08
Introduction:
1. "The fruit of the Spirit" consists of 9 characteristics listed in Galatians 5:22-23. 2. "Faith" is the seventh of these special characteristics. 3. In the Bible, "faith" has several shades of meaning. a. "Faith" sometimes refers to belief [trust] in God that is demonstrated by obedience to His will (Hebrews 11:6). b. "Faith" sometimes refers to a miraculous type (Matthew 17:20; 1 Corinthians 12:9). c. "Faith" sometimes refers to faithfulness [also known as fidelity, reliability, trustworthiness] (1 Corinthians 4:2; Galatians 5:22). Discussion: I. THE BIBLE TEACHES CHRISTIANS TO BE FAITHFUL A. Jesus stressed the necessity of faithfulness in His teaching. 1. Matthew 24:44-47 2. Matthew 25:21, 23 B. The New Testament letters admonish Christians to be faithful. 1. Hebrews 10:23 2. Revelation 2:10 C. The New Testament also includes warnings against unfaithfulness. 1. Hebrews 3:12 2. Hebrews 4:11 II. THE BIBLE CONTAINS INFORMATION THAT WILL HELP CHRISTIANS TO BE FAITHFUL A. Practices that hinder faithfulness must be avoided, including: 1. looking back (Luke 9:62; 17:32) 2. allowing love for God to grow cold (Revelation 2:1-4) 3. relying upon past reputation (Revelation 3:1-2) 4. being lukewarm (Revelation 3:14-16). B. Practices that increase faithfulness include: 1. studying and meditating upon God's Word regularly (Romans 10:17) 2. obeying the Lord (James 2:17-18) 3. following the instructions given in Hebrews 12:1-2. | ||