Goodness Is Included in the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
Introduction:
1. This morning we showed from Romans 11:22 that we are to behold the goodness and severity of God. 2. Doing so will lead us to be faithful children of God. 3. "Goodness" is the 6th of 9 special characteristics that collectively make up "the fruit of the Spirit." 4. As we endeavor to bear the fruit of the Spirit, other people are to be able to behold "goodness" in our lives.
Discussion:
I. WE MUST FIRST UNDERSTAND WHAT "GOODNESS" IS
A. Goodness is generally defined in the Bible as "uprightness of heart and life." B. Goodness involves: 1. abstaining from evil (Galatians 5:19-21) a. We learn from 2 Timothy 2:19-21 that we must purge ourselves of evil so we can be sanctified and prepared unto every good work. b. We are taught in 1 Peter 3:10-11 to "eschew evil, and do good." c. According to 3 John 11, we are not to follow that which is evil, but we are to follow that which is good. 2. doing that which is good. a. A woman known for her goodness was Dorcas (Acts 9:36-39). b. A man known for his goodness was Barnabas (Acts 11:24). c. Dorcas and Barnabas were imitating Christ "who went about doing good" (Acts 10:38).
II. THE BIBLE INSTRUCTS CHRISTIANS TO DO GOOD
A. Galatians 6:10 B. Ephesians 2:10 C. Titus 2:14; 3:1, 8, 14
III. REQUIREMENTS FOR DOING GOOD
A. Jesus taught in Luke 6:45 that we must have good hearts because our hearts will determine what we do. B. We must develop and exercise "discernment." 1. See Hebrews 5:14 2. Discernment will enable us to follow the instructions in 1 Thessalonians 5:21. C. We must be "throughly furnished" [completely equipped] unto good works -- the Scriptures will accomplish this (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Conclusion:
1. According to 1 John 5:19, "the whole world lies in wickedness." 2. The world needs to see our good works (Matthew 5:16). 3. Let us remember that: a. we will be judged by the good we have done (2 Corinthians 5:10) b. God will bless those who do good (Galatians 6:9).
