The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church.
Course: The Fruit of the Holy Spirit (10 lessons)
A study based upon the Greek words describing the Fruit of the Spirit.
Course Text: Galatians 5:22-23 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,'
Textbook:
Course Study Guide (CL102)
Course Outline
Lesson One: Works of the Flesh
Lesson Two: Love
Lesson Three: Joy
Lesson Four: Peace
Lesson Five: Longsuffering
Lesson Six: Kindness
Lesson Seven: Goodness
Lesson Eight: Faith
Lesson Nine: Meekness
Lesson Ten: Self Control
Course: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church.
Course Title: The Fruit of the Spirit (10 Lessons)
Introductory Lesson One: (Outline)
Lesson Title: The Fruit in Contrast to the Works of the Flesh
Theme: Contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.
Text: Galatians 5:19-25
Introduction: The Works of the Flesh stand in contrast to the Fruit of the Spirit.
• Contrast: The beauty of the fruit of the Spirit is most clearly seen against the dark background of the works of the flesh.
• Division: The works of the flesh divide into three groups: sexual, spiritual and social (conflicts and revelry)
Introductory Story: Consider how the world loves the works of the flesh.
Films, novels, and TV soaps provide a means of gratifying the desire for the works of the flesh without being actively involved in them.
Main Points:
1. The gratification of immoral sexual desires. Galatians 5:19 ‘Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness’
• Immoral actions leading to shameless conduct glorying in immorality.
2. The gratification of spiritual desires. Galatians 5:20 ‘Idolatry, witchcraft’
• Gratifying the desires of the flesh through idolatry and witchcraft.
3. Social conflicts.
• Rooted in being 'lovers of self' Initial conflict; Galatians 5:20 ‘hatred, variance, emulations, wrath.’ Followers and Divisions; Galatians 5:20 ‘strife, seditions, heresies,’ Violent conflict Galatians 5:21 ‘envyings, murders’.
4. Social revelry.
• Rooted in being 'lovers of pleasure' – Galatians 5:21 ‘drunkenness , revelling, and such like.’
5. In contrast to the works of the flesh; the fruit of the Spirit is the life of Christ in the life of the believer, Colossians 3:1-4.
Summary: The works of the flesh
1) …will seek to find sexual fulfilment through the gratification of immoral sexual desires.
2) …will seek spiritual fulfilment through idolatry and witchcraft
3) …promotes 'love of self' leading to social conflicts.
4) …promotes 'love of pleasure' leading to social revelry - fulfilled in drunkenness and revelling.
5) …stands in complete contrast to the fruit of the Spirit which is the life of Christ in the life of the believer.
Course: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church.
Course Title: The Fruit of the Spirit (10 Lessons)
Introductory Lesson One:
Lesson Title: The Fruit in Contrast to the Works of the Flesh
Text: Galatians 5:19-25 ‘Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.’
Theme: Contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.
Introduction: The Works of the Flesh stand in contrast to the Fruit of the Spirit.
• Contrast: The beauty of the fruit of the Spirit is most clearly seen against the dark background of the works of the flesh. Diamond displayed on a black cloth. Contrast brings out the beauty of the diamond.
• Division: The works of the flesh divide into three groups: sexual, spiritual and social (conflicts and revelry)
Works are plural and are only united in their downward path.
The Fruit of the Spirit is singular - the variety of the Fruit reflects its unity and harmony. There is a bonding between the fruit of the Spirit. But the list of the works of the flesh is not exclusive (… and such like Galatians 5:21).
• Love is contrasted by hatred (Greek echthra) Galatians 5:20.
• Joy is contrasted by anxiety and worry (Greek merimnao). Matthew 6:25-33 'take no thought' (worry and anxiety)
• Peace is contrasted by strife and hostility (Greek eris) Galatians 5:20.
• Longsuffering is contrasted by wrath (Greek thumos) Galatians 5:20.
• Gentleness is contrasted by injurious and destructive evil (Greek poneros) Matthew 15:19 (evil thoughts)
• Goodness is contrasted by moral or ethical evil (Greek kakos).
• Faithfulness is contrasted by unfaithfulness (Greek apistos)
• Meekness is contrasted by being puffed up with pride (Greek phusioo - to puff up) 1 Corinthians 4:6.
• Temperance is contrasted with unrestrained lust (Greek akrates - without self control) 2 Timothy 3:3.
The works of the flesh divide into three groups: sexual, spiritual and social. The social divides into social conflicts and social revelry.
The works of the flesh divide like this:
1. Sexual immorality;
2. Spiritual idolatry;
3. Social conflict (lovers of self) and
4. Social revelry (lovers of pleasure).
The works of the flesh have a downward progression. Hatred can lead to divisions and even murder. Within the body of Christ a party spirit will lead to separation and to heresies. Excessively domineering leadership will lead the body of Christ into bondage and leave her unable to move in the Holy Spirit.
Introductory Story: Consider how the world loves the works of the flesh.
Films - based upon the works of the flesh.
A good selling novel promotes the 'works of the flesh'. Adultery, Hatred, Murder, Witchcraft etc.
If you watch the soaps notice how the script is built upon the works of the flesh seen in Galatians 5:19-21: 'Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are…'
1. sexual desires
2. idolatry and witchcraft,
3. social conflicts,
4. social revelling.
Films, novels, and TV soaps provide a means of gratifying the desire for the works of the flesh without being actively involved in them. The advantage of this is that the desire is gratified without having to suffer evil consequences or even a bad conscience.
Main Points:
1. The gratification of immoral sexual desires: Adultery, fornication, uncleanness and lasciviousness. The first three involve shame in immoral actions. The fourth goes beyond this into shameless conduct glorying in immorality.
• Adultery, (Greek moichos). Immoral intercourse with or by the spouse of another.
• fornication, (Greek porneia). Immoral sexual intercourse (includes prostitution, harlotry)
• uncleanness, (Greek akatharsia) a negative kathairo to purify (moral impurity). An immoral sexual act of uncleanness but still hiding the sin
• lasciviousness, (Greek aselgia) Absence of restraint (without shame)
The immoral act no longer produces shame. The person does not seek to hide the sin but openly seeks to fulfil his or her lust. Shameless conduct, person so controlled by lust unashamed to act like a depraved animal. The depravity becomes a glorying in committing immorality
Sexual immorality was a characteristic of pagan religions and so the gratification of sexual desires had a close association with idolatry.
2. Spiritual desires. Religion to gratify the desires of the flesh through idolatry and witchcraft. Idols bring the recipient a sense of 'good luck' and drugs can provide feelings of serenity and peace. Bringing bondage - Idolatry enslaves through superstition, witchcraft enslaves through enticement.
• Idolatry, eidololatreia (worship of idols) From eidolon 'idol' and latreia 'service'. Pagan sacrifices were sacrificed to demons, 1 Corinthians 10:19. Idolatry enslaves the mind of the idolator. 2 Kings 17:15 'they followed vanity and became vain'. They became like their idols. The idols were empty and worthless and they became empty and worthless. The Apostle John wrote 'keep yourselves from idols' 1 John 5:21.
• Witchcraft, (Greek pharmakeia) (the ministering of drugs). Idolatry enslaves, witchcraft entices. In pagan religions drugs were used to dull the senses so that the mysteries could be revealed without fear of them being ridiculed by reason. Pharmakeia was associated with the use of medicine, drugs, and forms of poisoning; but also was associated with spells, and sorcery. Consider the great interest in witchcraft in the present day. The success of Harry Potter can be attributed to the desire for the works of the flesh and the enticement of witchcraft.
3. Social conflicts. Rooted in being 'lovers of self'
The enthronement of self brings conflict. The works of the flesh find fulfilment in hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, and murders. Heresies gratify the desire to hold personal opinions in the place of truth.
Initial conflict
• hatred, (Greek echthrai) means personal animosities. This stands in contrast to love 'agape'. It means enmity from echthros enemy.
• variance, (Greek eris) means rivalry, discord. Strife is the expression of enmity. Strife, contentions.
• emulations, (Greek zeloi) means jealousies - zealously desiring what another has got. Jealousy seeks to have what another possesses, envy (phthonos) wants to take away from someone what he or she possesses.
• wrath, (Greek thumoi) means stirring emotions followed by explosions. This stands in contrast to longsuffering 'makrothumia'. Wrath - Hot anger, passion. An agitated condition of the feelings, an outburst of wrath from inward indignation.
Followers and Divisions
• strife, (Greek eritheiai) means party spirit, rivalry. Faction - is the fruit of jealousy. Derived from erithos 'a hireling' it is not strife but seeking to win followers.
• seditions, (Greek dichostasiai) means standing apart - dicha 'asunder' and stasis 'a standing' - di indicates division. Compare Romans 16:17 'mark those who cause divisions and turn away'.
• heresies, (Greek aireseis) means choosing opinions. A choosing - A self willed opinion, which is substituted for submission to the power of truth, and leads to division and the formation of sects. A division and the formation of a party or sect in contrast to the uniting power of 'the truth.
Violent conflict
• envyings, (Greek phthonoi) (feelings of ill-will). Envy - the feeling of displeasure produced by witnessing or hearing of the advantage or prosperity of others.
• murders, (Greek phonoi) Murder
It was envy that caused the chief priests to crucify Jesus (Mark 15:10). It was envy that caused the brothers of Joseph to sell him into slavery (Acts 7:9).
4. Social revelry. Rooted in being 'lovers of pleasure' - fulfilled in drunkenness and revelling.
• drunkenness, (Greek methai) means drunken excesses. It is the habitual intoxication of the drunkard.
Associated with the mystery religions. Intoxicated by abominations 1 Thessalonians 5:7b; metaphorically of the effect upon men of partaking of the abominations of the Babylonish system. Intoxicated on blood Rev.17:2, 6.
• revellings, (Greek komoi) means drinking parties associated with drunkenness.
Komos originally referred to a group of friends who sang praises as they accompanied a person who had triumphed at the games to his home. The word later came to be associated only with the drunken revelling that took place.
5. In contrast to the works of the flesh; the fruit of the Spirit is the life of Christ in the life of the believer
'Christ who is our life', Colossians 3:1-4.
2 Corinthians 5:17 'if any man be in Christ he is a new creation'.
New life - the life of Christ in the life of the believer.
• We are crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20)
• Buried with Christ (Romans 6:4)
• Risen with Christ (Colossians 3:1)
• Seated in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 2:6).
This new life is seen in the fruit of the Spirit.
Summary:
The carnal man is at enmity with God. If we do not walk in the Spirit then we will gravitate down to the works of the flesh.
The works of the flesh will seek…
1) Sexual fulfilment through the gratification of immoral sexual desires.
2) Spiritual fulfilment through idolatry and witchcraft
3) Being 'lovers of self' leads to social conflicts
4) Being 'lovers of pleasure' leads to social revelry - fulfilled in drunkenness and revelling.
The fruit of the Spirit stands in complete contrast to the works of the flesh…
5) It is the life of Christ in the life of the believer.
Checklist
Take care:
1) Avoid sexual immorality including thoughts and images – run from it.
2) Avoid the lure and enticement of idolatry and witchcraft.
3) Avoid social conflicts - be at peace with all people.
4) Avoid social revelling - be sober and watchful.
Be diligent to
5) Let our lives bring honour to the Lord.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson 2 (Outline)
Lesson Title: Love
Lesson Goal: …that the student will understand the nature of agape love and be motivated by love in all things.
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Theme: Love is the main characteristic of a disciple of Christ.
Introduction:
• Four Greek words describing love: Eros (passionate, erotic, sexual love), Storge (family affection), Philia (tender affection), and Agape. Love the fruit of the Spirit is 'Agape'.
• The Fruit of the Spirit is one fruit expressing all the aspects of 'agape' love.
Introductory Story: Testimony: Filled with the Spirit - filled with God's love.
• The Baptism with the Holy Spirit is a baptism of love because God is love, John 7:37-39
• Exposition of 1 Corinthians 13
Main Points:
1. Love is the outward evidence of discipleship. John 13:35
• Two aspects: Love for Christ and love for one another.
• Love Gives. Love serves.
2. Love is the energising power of faith. Galatians 5:6 ‘Faith which works by love’.
• Work is the Greek word 'energeo'. It is the energising power of the Holy Spirit.
3. Love must be the motivation for ministry, 2 Corinthians 5:14.
• Love holds together.
Summary:
Love the fruit of the Spirit is the life of God in the believer.
1. Love (agape) is the outward evidence of discipleship.
2. Love (agape) is the energising power of faith.
3. Love (agape) is the motivation for ministry.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church.
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson 2
Lesson Title: Love
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Theme: Love is the main characteristic of a disciple of Christ.
Introduction:
• Four Greek words describing love:
Eros - this word is not used in the Bible. It is associated with passionate, erotic, sexual love. Scripture maintains that this kind of love between a man and a woman is pure and holy provided it is within the marriage relationship. Hebrews 13:4 says, 'marriage is honourable and the bed undefiled'. It is not stained by sin because it is within the boundaries that God has given. God created sex and placed boundaries around it. These boundaries uphold the holiness of God, and protect the family unit.
Storge - 'love of kindred', family affection. 'Be kindly affectioned (philostorgos) one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another' (Romans 12:10). This word associates the body of Christ with being a family. Astorges means 'without affection'. Stork associated with bringing babies - storge 'family affection'.
Philia - 'having tender affection'. Love that cherishes the object loved more than anything else. Love between friends, brotherly love, or the love of a husband and wife. (Matthew 10:37).
Agape - Christian love. Love that is not controlled by emotion and led by feelings of affection. It is love that is controlled by the mind and led by the will. It is the mind of Christ controlling the will of the believer. It is love that does not seek a response. It is love that holds no regard to the 'unloveableness' of the object. It loves the unlovely and seeks nothing in return. See the First epistle of John. It is this love that is the Fruit of the Spirit.
The Fruit of the Spirit is one Fruit expressing all the aspects of 'agape' love.
1) Joy is love rejoicing in all things
2) Peace is love trusting in all things
3) Long Suffering is love enduring patiently in all things
4) Gentleness is love acting kindly at all times
5) Goodness is love acting in the best interest to all.
6) Faith is love always walking in truth
7) Meekness is love serving in lowliness of mind without selfish ambitions.
8) Temperance is love restraining having control of our desires and appetites.
Introductory Story: Relationship with Christ is always characterised by agape love.
• Testimony: In my early Christian experience when I received prayer for the Baptism with the Holy Spirit, I was very aware of a tremendous feeling of the love of God.
• The Baptism with the Holy Spirit is a baptism of love because God is love. A person baptised with the Holy Spirit will be characterised by even more love. The Baptism with the Holy Spirit is associated with the outward evidences of speaking in tongues and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. But the Baptism with the Holy Spirit will always bring a great awareness of the love of God. 'In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believes on me, as the scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spoke he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)', John 7:37-39.
• See exposition of 1 Corinthians 13
Main Points:
1. Love is the outward evidence of discipleship. Love is the new standard of discipleship. John 13:35 ‘By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another’. Two aspects: Love for Christ and love for one another. Love for Christ is seen in our love for one another. 1 John 4:7-11. The Old Testament commanded 'Love your neighbour'. Jesus gave a new commandment 'As I have loved you'.
• Love gives. Self sacrificing love - 'Gave Himself for us'. Given 'exceeding great and precious promises'. 1 John 3:16-17: Sacrificial giving. Love expressed by giving of ourselves (v16). Giving of our possessions (v17).
• Love serves. 'By love serve one another', Galatians 5:13. Called to be 'love slaves' to one another. Jesus washed His disciples feet and set an example for His disciples to follow. ‘For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you’. John I3:15
2. Love energises. ‘Faith which works by love’, Galatians 5:6. Work is the Greek word 'energeo'. It is the energising power of the Holy Spirit. This energising power is necessary in every area of our lives. 'It is God that works in us' Philippians 2:13.
• It is possible to have faith without love but love is the energiser of faith. 'If I have faith so that I can move mountains but have not love, I am nothing' 1 Corinthians 13. An effective prayer life requires the energising power of the Holy Spirit. James 5:16.
• The moving of the Holy Spirit in the Church is dependent upon the energising power of the Holy Spirit, 1 Corinthians 12:11. Holy Spirit 'agape' love is the energising power of the Christian life.
• The gifts and ministries of the Holy Spirit cannot be separated from the fruit of the Spirit. This is why 1 Corinthians 13 is between chapters 12 and 14.
3. Love must be the motivation for ministry. 2 Corinthians 5:14 'Love of Christ compels us'. The word compels in the Greek means 'to hold together'. It was the love of Christ that held everything together in Paul's ministry.
Love of Christ will hold in every circumstance. Jesus said to Peter 'Do you love Me? …Feed my sheep'. John 21:15-17. Ministry must be founded upon love for Christ. The only motivation that will reap an eternal reward is love for Christ, 1 Corinthians 13:2-3.
List other motivations for ministry that will not hold:
• Success cannot hold everything together because it is undependable.
• Love of the honour of men - rulers (John 12:43);
• Love of money - scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 23:13).
• Selfish ambitions
Summary: The fruit of the Spirit is the life of God in the believer.
1. Love (agape) must be the description of our character because it s the outward evidence of discipleship.
2. Love (agape) must be our energiser because it is the energising power of faith.
3. Love (agape) must be our motivation for ministry because nothing else will hold everything together. Ministry cannot be held together by any other motivation.
The checklist of love
Is the fruit of love seen in that I am?
1) a rejoicing person,
2) trusting in all circumstances,
3) patiently enduring trials,
4) kind to all,
5) seeking the highest good,
6) fully committed to truth,
7) walking in humility,
8) in control of my appetites and desires.
Notes (Lesson 2)
Exposition of 1 Corinthians 13
1. The gifts and ministries of the Holy Spirit must be operated with the fruit of the Spirit
1 Corinthians 13:1-3
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profits me nothing.
• Tongues have no meaning without love; it is an empty noise
• Prophecy, wisdom, knowledge, faith without love do not make a person a man or woman of God. We are nothing without love no matter how great our ministry appears to be.
• Generous giving or martyrdom without love will gain no eternal reward.
The gifts and ministries mentioned:
• Gift of tongues
• Gift of prophecy
• Word of wisdom
• Word of knowledge
• Faith
• Giving
• Martyrdom
All must operate with love the fruit of the Spirit.
2. The fruit of the Spirit is seen in the character of the believer
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
4 Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Does not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil;
6 Rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
‘Love suffers long, (longsuffering)
and is kind; (kindness, gentleness)
love envies not (rejoices in the exaltation of others)
love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, (meekness)
Does not behave itself unseemly (self control),
seeks not her own (seeks the good of others),
is not easily provoked (not aggressive),
thinks no evil (pure thought life);
Rejoices not in iniquity (hatred of sin),
but rejoices in the truth (joy for God's word);
Bears all things (meekness to carry burdens),
believes all things (faith),
hopes all things (hope),
endures all things (patience).
3. Spiritual gifts will pass away but love is eternal
8 Love never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
13 And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
• The enduring character of love
Love never fails (dependable and lasting):
Prophecy will cease (become unemployed, abolished)
Tongues will cease (be restrained)
Knowledge will cease (become unemployed, abolished)
Knowledge and prophecy is in part.
Will be done away when perfection comes.
• Illustration: A child has partial understanding of the world. Maturity removes the childish thoughts and understanding.
• The gifts are necessary because perfection has not come.
When we see the Lord face to face and enter eternity then we will know all things.
Faith
Hope
Love
Greatest is love because love endures.
The interpretation of v10 that the gifts operated until the canon of scripture was complete is shown to be false by v12. The gifts will cease to operate when we enter eternity and see the Lord Jesus Christ face to face.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
The Fruit of the Spirit:
Lesson Three (Outline)
Lesson Title: Joy
Lesson Goal: …that the student will understand that the fruit of joy is constant in the believer and is not affected by circumstances.
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Theme: Joy in the Lord Jesus Christ is the mark of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Introduction:
• The evidence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church is joy, Psalm 16:11.
• Joy comes through a close relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Question: Why do Christians suffer? The supernatural nature of joy, the fruit of the Spirit is most clearly evident in unfavourable circumstances.
Introductory Story: Personal testimony - the joy of knowing Jesus. When a person is filled with the joy of the Lord it will show on the face, Psalm 104:15.
Main Points:
1. The fruit of joy is essential in every area of the Christian life, 1 Thessalonians 1:6. Joy must always be evident in our daily lives, our fellowship together, and it is an essential part of prayer .
2. The fruit of joy delights in the Lord, Philippians 4:4. It is joy that is built upon the Lord and rejoices because Jesus is alive and we are one with Him.
3. The fruit of joy gives strength to the believer, Nehemiah 8:10. It gives strength to face trials and persecution, and the strength to serve the Lord. The reason why many believers are weak Christians is because they do not have the joy of the Lord.
Summary:
1) Joy is essential in every area of the Christian life. It must seen in our daily lives, in our fellowship with other believers and our prayer life must always be with joy.
2) Joy is founded upon the Lord. The Christian rejoices because Jesus is alive and we are one with Him. The greatest joy comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
3) It is joy that gives the believer strength to face trials, and persecution. It provides strength so that we can serve the Lord.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
The Fruit of the Spirit:
Lesson Three
Lesson Title: Joy
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Theme: Joy in the Lord Jesus Christ is the mark of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Introduction:
Joy (Greek chara) means delight or joy.
Joy is love overflowing with the delight of knowing Jesus.
• The evidence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church is joy. In His presence there is fulness of joy (Psalm 16:11). If we know the presence of the Lord we will know joy. Joyfulness and singing always accompanies revival.
• Joy comes through a close relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The church is often excited about testimonies of miracles or revivals. People are often moved by nice music and singing, and seek after the things that give temporary benefits, but have little or no excitement about knowing Jesus.
Question: Why do Christians suffer? Is a question that has been asked throughout history. But if Christians never faced unfavourable circumstances the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives would not have the opportunity to be seen. Joy looks beyond the circumstances and rejoices in the Lord.
Great joy can be known even when the heart is broken.
The joy of the Holy Spirit has no relationship to circumstances. It is a joy that rejoices in the Lord. The supernatural nature of joy, the fruit of the Spirit is most clearly evident in unfavourable circumstances.
A person who has very favourable circumstances will enjoy temporal happiness but this is only a natural response to a good situation.
Personal Testimony: The joy of knowing Jesus.
When I first went to the Philippines I saw that many people would raise their hands to receive Christ but there was no evidence of salvation on their faces. One time I was at an outreach and saw a woman and her son at the meeting. Their faces shone with the joy of the Lord. I saw such a difference between them and the others at the outreach. The others did not have this joy. When I spoke with the lady I found out that she was the wife of a pastor and involved in Christian ministry. The point is that I knew they were different before I had an opportunity to speak with them because they were so joyful.
When people have drunk from the well of salvation then the joy of the Lord will be seen on their faces, Psalm 104:15. Joy is a wonderful evidence of salvation. Isaiah 12:3 'Therefore with joy shall you draw water out of the wells of salvation.'
Main Points:
Joy is the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, which is a supernatural joy that rejoices in the Lord, and empowers the Christian.
1. Joy is essential in every area of the Christian life, 1 Thessalonians 1:6. The Thessalonians received the word in much affliction but the joy of the Holy Spirit remained constant.
• The outward evidence of the Holy Spirit is joy, Romans 14:17 'For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.' If we are filled with the Holy Spirit then we will be filled with joy.
• Joy of the Holy Spirit will be seen in our fellowship with one another. The early church were filled with gladness in their fellowship with one another. They were single minded because their hearts desired only the Lord. They did not have 'the love of the world'. Acts 2:46-47 'And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.’ They were anointed with the oil of joy, Isaiah 61:3 '…the oil of joy for mourning'.
• Joy of the Holy Spirit is essential in prayer .The joy of the Holy Spirit must be evident in our prayer meetings. Isaiah 56:7 ‘Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.’ The prayer meeting should be full of excitement and joy that is founded upon relationship with the Lord. The meeting that reveals clearly whether a church is moving in the Holy Spirit is the prayer meeting.
2. It is joy that rejoices in the Lord. Philippians 4:4.
• The foundation of joy is in the Lord. The Epistle to the Philippians is known as the Epistle of Joy. Paul stresses the need for the Philippians to 'rejoice in the Lord', (Philippians 3:1; 4:4). The word meaning joy or rejoice occurs at least 15 times in the epistle. Yet Paul was a prisoner when he wrote the epistle. He rejoiced not in comfortable circumstances, but he rejoiced in the eternal plan and purpose of God. His joy was in the Lord who controlled his circumstances. His joy was the fruit of the Holy Spirit that flowed out of his innermost being. 'Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do you joy, and rejoice with me.’ Philippians 2:16-18 The joy of the believer is not in changing circumstances but in the Lord. The Lord is unchanging. 'Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever' (Hebrews 13:8).
• The resurrection of Christ is the reason for the believers' joy. After the resurrection Jesus greeted the women with the word 'rejoice'. 'And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail (rejoice). And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.' (Matthew 28:9) Their joy was that the Lord is risen. The Bible says that the disciples could not believe for joy, (Luke 24:41). The joy of the Christian is because Christ is risen. (1 Corinthians 15:19). This is not just a historical fact for the Christian; it is an experiential reality. The believer is risen with Christ (Colossians 3:1).
• The joy of union with Christ. The joy of His life in the believer. John 15:11. ‘My joy’ (the joy of the Lord)…‘that your joy might be full’. Psalm 45:7 ‘You love righteousness, and hates wickedness: therefore God, Your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above Your fellows.’ His joy in the believer.
3. It is the joy of the Lord that is the believers' strength. Nehemiah 8:10 ‘The joy of the Lord is your strength’. The Hebrew word for strength is 'maoz' meaning a place of safety or protection, a refuge or a stronghold. The joy of the Holy Spirit brings strength. When we are troubled then we are weakened and have little strength.
Illustration: Times when we have been worried it drains our energy. We are weak when we are anxious and worried, and quickly become very tired.
• The strength to have joy in trials. The fiery trial (Greek purosis) meaning 'to set on fire'. Trial by fire as gold is refined. The trial is for the purpose of refining the gold of the 'new nature in Christ'. 1 Peter 4:12-14, ‘Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy. If you be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you; for the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.’ Paul gloried in tribulations. He gloried because the tribulation through outward experience brought out the godly nature of the inward work of God in the life of the believer. ‘We glory in tribulations also’ Romans 5:3. The believer was to rejoice because he or she is an overcomer in Christ. John 16:33 ‘In the world you shall have tribulations but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world’.
• The strength to have joy in persecution. Matthew 5:11-12, 'Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.' Strength to rejoice when evil is spoken against us falsely. This can heart deeply because it is usually people who are close to us who can do this. The joy of the Holy Spirit provides the strength to rejoice.
• The strength to have joy in service. Deuteronomy 28:47-48. ‘Because you serve not the LORD your God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things; Therefore shall you serve your enemies which the LORD shall send against you, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he has destroyed you.’ Serve the Lord with gladness Psalm 100
Summary:
1. Joy is essential in every area of the Christian life. It must seen in our daily lives, in our fellowship with other believers and our prayer life must always be with joy.
2. Joy is founded upon the Lord. The Christian rejoices because Jesus is alive and we are one with Him. The greatest joy comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
3. It is joy that gives the believer strength to face trials, and persecution. It provides strength so that we can serve the Lord.
Checklist
1) At times during the day begin to say thanks to the Lord.
2) Meditate on Jesus and rejoice because of what He has done for us.
3) Look on difficult circumstances as opportunities to show joy.
4) Check that we are joyful and not worried.
5) Express joy to the people we meet.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
The Fruit of the Spirit:
Lesson Four (Outline)
Lesson Title: Peace, the fruit of the Spirit
Text: Galatians 5:22-23, 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law'.
Introduction: Peace the fruit of the Spirit develops and grows through right relationships. Peace is the Greek word 'eirene', which is probably derived from the verb eiro meaning 'to join'. It is a word describing relationships.
• Peace in our relationship with God, Romans 5:1.
• Peace in our relationship with the body of Christ, Ephesians 4:2-3.
• Peace in our relationship with others, Hebrews 12:14.
Introductory Story: Peace in our time
The Munich agreement in 1938 was called 'Peace in our time'. In 1939 the Second World War began. The agreement was not based upon truth.
Peace must go hand in hand with truth. Esther 9:30.
Main Points:
The fruit of peace…
1. We have peace through a right relationship with God, Romans 5:1 'Justified by faith we have peace'.
• We have peace - reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:18
• We have confidence in approaching God, Hebrews 4:16.
• We have the ministry of peace. 2 Corinthians 5:20
2. We have peace in our relationships with others. Ephesians 4:2-3
• Peace in being one body in Christ, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.
• In Christ every barrier has been broken down. Ephesians 2:14.
• Peace in our relationships requires being tender hearted, Ephesians 5:1.
• The believer is to be at peace with those around us, Romans 12:18
2. We are to be at peace in ourselves.
• Free from worry and anxiety. Philippians 4:6-7
• Peace leading and guiding the believer. Colossians 3:15.
• A peaceful spirit is of great value in the Lord's sight. 1 Peter 3:4.
Summary:
1) We have peace with God because we are in a right relationship with God. There is no fear of condemnation, we can approach God with boldness.
2) The peace of God flows through the body of Christ when we are in right relationship with one another. The fruit of peace is with us when we are tender hearted and forgiving towards those who are saved or unsaved.
3) The peace of God will guide us and keep us from worry.
Course: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
The Fruit of the Spirit:
Lesson Four
Lesson Title: Peace the Fruit of the Spirit
Text: Galatians 5:22-23, 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law'.
Introduction: Peace the fruit of the Spirit develops and grows through right relationships.
Peace is the Greek word 'eirene', which is probably derived from the verb eiro meaning 'to join'. It is a word describing relationships.
• Peace in our relationship with God, Romans 5:1.
• Peace in our relationship with the body of Christ, Ephesians 4:2-3.
• Peace in our relationship with others, Hebrews 12:14.
Comparison between the peace of the Holy Spirit and the restlessness of the world.
• Peace with God is in contrast to a bad conscience. (1 Timothy 1:5).
• Peace with others, even if they are not at peace with me, is in contrast to the hostility, aggression and enmity of the world. (Romans 12:18).
• Peace with ourselves is in contrast to the discouragement, discontentment and resentfulness of the world. (Philippians 4:7).
Introductory Story:
Before the outbreak of war the Munich agreement of 1938 promised peace. The next year the Second World War began.
Neville Chamberlain made an agreement of peace with Hitler in 1938. He flew back from Munich with great happiness to Britain waving the signed agreement and saying 'it is peace in our time'. The next year Britain was at war with Hitler and in 1940 Neville Chamberlain resigned as Prime Minister, making the way for Winston Churchill to take over. Churchill had been called a warmonger because of his negative attitude towards Hitler and Nazi Germany, but in 1940 the people knew he had been right. Peace with Hitler was not founded upon truth.
Peace and truth must go hand in hand.
'And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, with words of peace and truth,' (Esther 9:30)
Question: Jesus is the Prince of Peace so why did Jesus say? 'Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.' (Matthew 10:34), and 'Do you suppose that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, No; but rather division:' (Luke 12:51)
The sword of division is between those who become the disciples of Christ and receive the truth and those who deny Christ and reject the Truth.
Faith in Christ brings unity and division.
• Unity in the Spirit - one in Christ.
• Division - separated from the world unto God.
The fruit of peace remains even though the believer faces hostility from those opposed to the gospel.
Main Points:
1. We have peace through a right relationship with God, Romans 5:1 'Justified by faith we have peace'.
• We have peace because we have been reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:18 'And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation'. We have peace as there is no longer fear of judgment. 1 John 4:17 'Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world'.
• Right relationship with God brings confidence in approaching God, Hebrews 4:16. No sense of enmity with God. We have a right conscience with God. Perfect love casts out all fear (1 John 4:18). If our heart does not condemn us then we have confidence in prayer, (1 John 3:20-21).
• We have the ministry of peace. 2 Corinthians 5:20 '…be reconciled to God'. The gospel is the good news of restoring a right relationship with God. Romans 10:15 'And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!' When Adam and Eve fell (Genesis 3:14-19) - peace was lost on the earth. When Jesus came to earth the message was 'peace on earth' (Luke 2:14).
2. We have peace in our relationships with others. Ephesians 4:2-3 'With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.'
• Peace in being one body in Christ, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13. The body of Christ is not hierarchical or competitive. Every member of the body is necessary for the body to function properly.
• In Christ every barrier has been broken down. Racial barriers have been broken, Colossians 3:11-15. The barrier between Jew and Gentile is broken. Ephesians 2:14 'For he is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of partition between us;'
• Peace in our relationships requires being tender hearted, Ephesians 5:1. It requires being willing to forgive one another. We must forgive others so that our prayers will be answered. The Lord taught His disciples concerning prayer that '...if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.' (Matthews 6:14-15). Wrong relationships through unforgiveness will prevent our prayers being answered. We must always seek to be at peace with those around us.
• It is also the responsibility of the believer to be at peace with those around us, Romans 12:18. Even when we are treated wrongly we must seek to be at peace with others. Hebrews 12:14 'Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:'
3. We are at peace in ourselves.
• Free from worry and anxiety. 'Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' (Philippians 4:6-7). The peace of God will keep the heart - heart attacks, and will keep the mind - mental breakdowns. Stress is a major problem.
• Peace leading and guiding the believer. The peace of God is the guide of the believer. Colossians 3:15 'And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also you are called in one body; and be thankful.' Watch for the peace of God in our lives. Feeling uneasy may be because we are nervous - this is not loss of peace. We need to learn to recognise the leading of the peace of God.
Story: Learning to recognise feelings. When we fostered a six-year-old boy he was unable to recognise his own feelings. One day he went to the end of the field where we lived and did not come up to the house to eat for many hours. When he did come home he cried saying; 'I'm not well'. But all that was wrong was that he needed to eat food. He did not associate his feelings of pain in his stomach with being hungry. He had to learn that when he felt this pain then he needed to eat. In the spiritual realm it is easy to misinterpret feelings.
• A peaceful spirit is of great value in the Lord's sight. 'But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.' (1 Peter 3:4). The word quiet is the Greek word 'Hesuchios' which means 'a calmness that comes from within'. Calmness of spirit and mind.
Summary:
Peace the fruit of the Spirit is the peace of being in right relationship with God, with others and in ourselves. It is not dependent upon how others feel about us.
1. …we are at peace with God through being brought into a right relationship with Him. We are in right standing with God through the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. …we are at peace in our relationship with others. We are one body in Christ; and must be tender hearted and forgiving to those who are saved or unsaved. The fruit of peace means we can even be at peace with those who are opposed to us.
3. …we are at peace in the innermost part of our being because Christ lives in us and we are a part of the family of God. Peace in the inner person must be our guide and keep us from worry and anxiety.
Checklist
1. Be filled with the peace of being in a right relationship with God
2. Come into His presence in prayer with boldness
3. Be in a right relationship with the body of Christ.
4. Be tender hearted and forgiving towards everyone.
5. Let the peace of God guide us.
6. Not be worried or anxious about anything.
7. Rejoice in the peace of a good conscience because of the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Five (Outline)
Title: Longsuffering
Text: Colossians 1:11, 'Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;’
Theme: Longsuffering restrains from anger and is associated with patience that endures under trials.
Introduction: Longsuffering (Greek: makrothumia) from the words makros ‘long’, thumos ‘temper’. A longsuffering person is easy to approach.
• Longsuffering is the fruit of the Spirit in contrast to anger.
• Longsuffering does not retaliate under provocation.
• Longsuffering is merciful and does not seek to punish hastily.
Introductory Story: Watching sport reveals human nature.
A player who loses his temper and hits an opponent in anger can cost his team the match.
Question: Why was the player unable to restrain himself?
The best players in the world may be very skilful yet unable to restrain anger.
Main Points:
1. Longsuffering is seen in the character of the Lord, Exodus 34:6-7.
• He is slow to anger and merciful, but He is holy and will not leave sin unpunished.
2. Longsuffering is the restraint of anger. Ephesians 4:26.
• Longsuffering will be a barrier between us and sin.
3. Longsuffering goes hand in hand with patience, Colossians 1:11.
• Longsuffering restrains while patience will endure under trial, Romans 5:3.
4. Longsuffering looks to the Lord to repay, Romans 12:19-21.
• It will never seek revenge but is free to love those who have done us wrong. Hebrews 10:35-37.
Summary:
Longsuffering will…
1. …reveal the nature and character of God in the life of the believer.
2. …place a barrier of restraint. It will not allow anger to control the actions.
3. …go hand in hand with patience.
4. …not seek vengeance but leaves us free to bless those who do us wrong.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Five
Lesson Title: Longsuffering
Text: Colossians 1:11, 'Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;’
Introduction: Longsuffering restrains from anger and is associated with patience that endures under trials. Longsuffering (makrothumia) from 'makros' meaning long, and 'thumos' meaning temper. A longsuffering person is easy to approach because he or she does not react in a harsh manner.
• Longsuffering is the fruit of the Spirit that is in contrast to anger.
• Longsuffering does not retaliate under provocation.
• Longsuffering is merciful and does not seek to punish hastily.
One of the hardest things to take is being despised by those who should be appreciative of what we are doing, 1 Peter 2:18-25.
Introductory Story: Watching sport reveals so well human nature.
A football match where millions of people are watching; sometimes hundreds of millions - A player may be seen striking an opponent in anger.
even though he risks losing the opportunity of playing in the next match which may be the greatest match he has ever played in and if he is sent off he risks losing the match for his team. Why was the player unable to restrain himself? He is one of the best players in the world but he cannot beat anger. An uncontrolled temper is a great advantage to the opposing team. It is a weakness that will destroy the career of a talented sports person.
Main Points:
1. Longsuffering is seen in the character of the Lord.
• The Lord delights in mercy, Micah 7:18. The longsuffering of the Lord waits for people to repent so that He can show mercy, Romans 2:4; ‘Or despise you the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?’ The Lord wants all people to repent. He is longsuffering but He will fulfil His promises. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
• His longsuffering cannot deny His holiness; He will punish the guilty. Exodus 34:6-7, 'And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.'
2. Longsuffering is restraint of anger. 'Be angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:' Ephesians 4:26.
• Longsuffering seeks to put up a barrier between us and sin. Being angry is an emotion that can come at anytime. Longsuffering keeps the emotion completely under control. The world will say 'take a deep breath before you speak or act' but this does not deal with a person's nature. Anger can flare up at any time.
• Longsuffering will prevent sin from being able to control our actions. Sin seeks to use anger to take hold of our mind and lead us into sin, (Genesis 4:6). Cain allowed envy to control his mind and he committed murder.
3. Longsuffering goes hand in hand with patience. Patience (hupomeno) from 'hupo' meaning under and meno 'to abide'. meaning to remain steadfast under trial, and always have hope.
• Comparison between longsuffering and patience. Longsuffering is being slow to anger, and prevents retaliation. Patience is remaining steadfast under the trial. Romans 5:3 'And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;'
• Strengthened in the power of the Holy Spirit. Longsuffering refers to the strength to restrain. Patience provides the strength to endure the suffering. Patience and Longsuffering are used together in Colossians 1:11 'Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience (hupomeno) and longsuffering (makrothumia) with joyfulness;’
4. Longsuffering looks to the Lord to repay. Romans 12:19-21 'Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord. Therefore if your enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing you shall heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.'
• We are free to bless our enemies because the Lord will repay them for their evil deeds. It isn't that we wish them harm but God is just and sin will not go unpunished.
• Longsuffering looks to the day when Jesus is coming again knowing that He will repay. Patience looks to the Day of His coming knowing that He who has promised is faithful, Hebrews 10:35-37.
Summary:
Longsuffering will…
1. …reveal the nature and character of God in the life of the believer. The Lord is longsuffering in His dealings with people because He desires all people to repent.
2. …place a barrier of restraint in the face of provocation. It will not allow anger to control the actions of the mind.
3. …go hand in hand with patience. Longsuffering provides strength to restrain from wrath, patience provides strength to endure the trial.
4. …not seek vengeance because the Lord will repay. Longsuffering leaves us free to bless those who do us wrong.
Checklist
Be sure that I am…
1) …easy to approach. People are not afraid to speak with me.
2) …not easily irritated.
3) …not controlled by anger
4) …able to stand under trials
5) …never seeking vengeance.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Six (Outline)
Lesson Title: Kindness
Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22.
Theme: Kindness the fruit of the Spirit is far higher than natural kindness.
Introduction: Kindness (Greek 'chrestotes') - deeds of kindness shown to others.
• The kindness of God is also shown to those who reject Him, (Psalm 145:9).
• The Lord told His disciples that they were to follow this example and be kind to those who opposed them, (Matthew 5:44-45).
Introductory Story: A kind person is one who is concerned about the needs of others.
The world makes appeals for aid in times of famine, or children in need, or natural disasters. This is not the fruit of the Spirit.
• Kind intentions are derived from human nature and are not the fruit of the Spirit. This is highly valued by the world.
• The fruit of the Spirit is rooted in 'agape' love. It is self-sacrificing love that is not stopped by rejection or hostility.
Main Points:
Kindness, the fruit of the Spirit, is unlike the kindness of the world.
1. Kindness will make us like Jesus, Luke 6:35.
• The kindness of the Lord is seen in His love for the unloving and the undeserving. Romans 5:7-8; Titus 2:4-5.
2. Kindness is compassionate and forgiving, Ephesians 4:32.
• It is always active, 1 John 3:17
3. Kindness will love those who have been unkind towards us, Luke 6:27-28.
• The fruit of the Spirit will rejoice to show kindness to an enemy, Romans 12:20.
4. Kindness is characterised by generosity and the absence of self interest, Luke 6:29-31.
• Kindness does not seek for anything in return. Luke 6:32-36
Summary:
Kindness, the fruit of the Spirit, will
1) …make us like Jesus in loving those who do not deserve it.
2) …always be compassionate and willing to forgive.
3) …love those who are unkind to us.
4) …show generosity far beyond the expectations of the world.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church.
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Six
Title: Kindness
Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22.
Introduction: The word gentleness in the Greek is 'chrestotes' which means goodness, kindness or gentleness. This word describes kindness shown towards others through deeds of kindness.
• The kindness of the Lord is seen in His dealings with all people, Psalm 145:9 'The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.' The love of God is expressed through kindness even to those who reject Him. Even those who are evil enjoy the benefits of the Lord's kindness.
• The Lord told His disciples that they were to follow the example of the Lord in being kind even to those who oppose us: Matthew 5:44-45 'But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.'
Introductory Story: A kind person is one who is concerned about the needs of others. This is highly valued by the world. The world makes appeals for aid in times of famine, or children in need, or natural disasters. This is not the fruit of the Spirit.
• Bob Geldolf (Live Aid), or the charity work of Lady Diana etc. In recent years large amounts of money are raised on television to help children or lands in famine. The people who do this have kind intentions. But this kindness is derived from human nature and is not the fruit of the Spirit. Kindness shown by the church is not always the fruit of the Spirit.
• The fruit of the Spirit is rooted in 'agape' love. It is self sacrificing love that is not stopped by rejection or hostility. Unselfish sacrificial giving attracts people to Christ because it is the nature of Christ.
What is the difference between natural kindness and the Fruit of the Spirit?
• Natural kindness needs to be appreciated - the fruit of the Spirit does not.
• Natural kindness will be honoured by the world - the fruit of the Spirit seeks no honour.
• Natural kindness glorifies human nature - the fruit of the Spirit will glorify Jesus.
Main Points:
Kindness, the fruit of the Spirit, is unlike the kindness of the world.
1. Kindness will make us like Jesus. Luke 6:35 'But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.' We are to be kind to those who are our enemies. To be kind and provide for others without seeking benefit for ourselves either directly or indirectly. Then we will become like Jesus. The Lord's kindness is seen through His love towards us even though we were:
• Unrighteous, Romans 5:7-8 'For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.'
• Undeserving, Titus 2:4-5 'But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost'
2. Kindness loves those who have done nothing to deserve it. Ephesians 4:32 'And be kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.
• Kindness will be moved with compassion. It is always active. 1 John 3:17 'But whoever has this world’s good, and sees his brother have need, and shuts up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwells the love of God in him?'
• Kindness is always ready to forgive. It is the same kindness that the Lord shows towards the sinner. Kindness does not brood over a wrong suffered. Big people do not hold grudges.
3. Kindness will love those who have been unkind towards us. Hostility of others towards us should bring out the beauty of the fruit of kindness. Luke 6:27-28 'But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.'
• The fruit of the Spirit will rejoice to show kindness to an enemy. It is an opportunity to glorify the Lord. The fruit of the Spirit will love those who desire to injure us. Romans 12:20 'Therefore if your enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing you shall heap coals of fire on his head.'
• The fruit of kindness is rooted in Christ and will remain constant in the face of hostility. The bond of the body of Christ is stronger than family and friends. Family relationships can turn hostile, and friendships can break up. But in the body there is no place for hostility.
4. Kindness is characterised by generosity and the absence of self interest.
• All disciples of Christ are called to live a life characterised by generosity. The world does not understand giving like this and it will attract people to Christ. Luke 6:29-31 ' And unto him that smites you on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that takes away your cloak forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asks of you; and of him that takes away thy goods ask them not again. And as you would that men should do to you, do you also to them likewise.'
• Kindness does not seek for anything in return. It takes no regard to what advantage can be gained. It looks to an eternal reward and seeks only to glorify the Lord. Luke 6:32-36 'For if you love them which love you, what thank have you? for sinners also love those that love them. And if you do good to them which do good to you, what thank have you? for sinners also do even the same. And if you lend to them of whom you hope to receive, what thank have you? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love you your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be you therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.'
It is a sad reflection on the body of Christ that the body of Christ is often far less generous than the world. A person filled with the Holy Spirit will be overflowing with the joy of generous giving to meet needs especially within the body of Christ.
Note: We need to be concerned about the needs of those around us and not just the needs presented by big preachers.
Summary:
Kindness, the fruit of the Spirit, will…
1) …will make us like Jesus in loving those who do not deserve it.
2) …will always be compassionate and willing to forgive. The kindness of the Lord is full of compassion and forgiving.
3) …will love those who are unkind to us. The hostility of people towards us will be met with the beauty of Jesus who lives in us.
4) …will be characterised by generosity and the absence of self-interest. The Christian is called to a life of generosity far beyond the expectations of the world.
Checklist
1) Take every opportunity to be kind.
2) Show kindness to those who do not expect it.
3) Respond to unkindness with generosity.
4) Let our kind actions be a testimony of the love of Jesus.
5) Give thanks that our kind actions will glorify the Lord.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Seven (Outline)
Lesson Title: Goodness
Course Text: Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: Goodness (Gr. agathosune) has a different emphasis from kindness.
• Goodness can appear harsh because the emphasis is on good whereas kindness is gentle because the emphasis is on being kind.
• Goodness is the opposite of evil (Greek kakos), 3 John 1:11. We must follow after that which is good in character and beneficial to others.
• The difference between kindness (chrestotes) and goodness. Goodness reveals the holy nature and character of God. Exodus 33:19
Introductory Story: The goodness of God is seen through the cross
• The cross reveals the love of God towards the sinner, Romans 5:8.
• The cross reveals the wrath of God towards sin, Romans 1:18.
Question: If God is love then how can He condemn sinners to eternal torment? He cannot deny Himself.
Main Points:
1. Goodness is the nature and character of God.
• When Moses saw the glory of God he saw the Lord’s goodness, Exodus 33:18-19.
• The Rich Young Ruler – called Jesus good, Matthew 19:16-17.
2. Goodness and truth. The fruit of goodness will always uphold truth. Ephesians 5:9
0. Goodness will preach the gospel to those who do not want to hear, 2 Timothy 4:2.
1. Goodness is associated with knowledge to admonish, Romans 15:14.
3. Goodness and righteousness.
• The fruit of goodness will always uphold the righteousness of God, Ephesians 5:9
2. Goodness can never be unrighteous or inconsistent with holiness, Exodus 33:19.
4. Goodness and works, Ephesians 2:10.
3. God's eternal plan and purpose - we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works.
4. The goodness of the Lord is seen by the beauty of Jesus in us, 2 Thessalonians 1:11.
Summary:
1) Goodness is the nature and character of God.
2) Goodness will declare truth without concern for the consequences.
3) Goodness always acts in unity with the righteousness of God.
4) We have been created in Christ Jesus to do good works that reflect the beauty of Jesus in us.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Seven
Lesson Title: Goodness
Theme: The goodness of God reveals the holiness of His nature and character.
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: Goodness (Greek agathosune) is good in character and beneficial in its outworking, but has a different emphasis from the fruit of kindness.
• Goodness is not always gentle because it is primarily concerned with that which is good. Kindness is gentle because the emphasis is on being kind.
• Goodness is the opposite of evil (Greek kakos). Christians should follow after that which is good in character and beneficial to others. 3 John 1:11 'Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that does good is of God: but he that does evil has not seen God.'
The difference between kindness (chrestotes) and goodness (agathosune).
Kindness does not involve 'righteous indignation'. It is tenderhearted and compassionate towards those who it seeks to help.
Goodness can appear harsh because it always seeks to reveal the holy nature and character of God.
Goodness reveals the nature and character of God. Exodus 33:19 'And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.'
God is good and His goodness is good in character and beneficial to others.
Satan is evil and seeks to steal, to kill, and to destroy (John 10:10).
Who we serve determines our character.
Sometimes we can speak truth but we are not being kind.
Sometimes we can be so concerned about being kind that we never tell people what they need to hear.
Introductory Story: The goodness of God is seen most clearly through the cross.
• The cross reveals the love of God towards the sinners. Romans 5:8 ‘But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’
• The cross reveals the wrath of God towards sin. Romans 1:18, ‘For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;’
Question: If God is love then how can He condemn sinners to eternal torment? The goodness of God is associated with the severity of God. Romans 11:22 ‘Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise you also shall be cut off.’
Answer: The goodness of God reveals His nature and character. He cannot deny Himself. His love cannot oppose His holiness. God cannot allow sin to be unpunished. The cross reveals the love of God in that He took our sin upon Himself so that we can be forgiven. There is no other way of salvation except through Jesus Christ, John 3:16.
Main Points:
1. Goodness is the nature and character of God.
• When Moses saw the glory of God he saw the Lord’s goodness. Exodus 33:18-19 ‘And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.’ The holy nature and character of the Lord is called 'His goodness'. The Lord said to Moses 'I will let all my goodness pass by'.
• The Rich Young Ruler – called Jesus Good, Matthew 19:16-17. See notes on deductive reasoning.
2. Goodness and truth.
• The fruit of goodness will always uphold truth. Ephesians 5:9 'For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;'
• Goodness will preach the gospel even to those who do not want to hear. Paul told Timothy, 'Preach the Word be instant in season, out of season', 2 Timothy 4:2. Preaching to those who do not want to hear may appear to be unkind but when the Holy Spirit is in control then the preaching is in the best interest of the people. Don't be afraid to preach the gospel.
0. The Lord dealt kindly with sinners, but He appeared to speak harshly with the religious leaders in Matthew 23. His gentleness is seen in His dealings with the prostitutes, tax collectors and sinners because they knew they needed a Saviour. His goodness is seen in His dealings with the religious leaders who elevated themselves through religious means and did not know they needed a Saviour. See Luke 7:36-50.
1. Goodness is associated with knowledge to admonish. This means teaching by warning, admonishing or exhorting. It is the Bible principle that every believer must be ready and able to teach others. Romans 15:14 'And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.'
3. Goodness and righteousness. The fruit of goodness will always uphold the righteousness of God. Ephesians 5:9 'For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;'
2. Goodness can never be unrighteous or inconsistent with holiness. The Lord's goodness will always declare His righteousness.
3. Goodness cannot let sin go unpunished. Whenever the Lord showed kindness, His goodness demanded repentance, Luke 19:1-10. The Lord showed kindness to Zacchaeus. The result of the Lord's kindness was repentance and restitution.
4. Goodness and works. The fruit of goodness will produce good works - this is the eternal plan and purpose of God.
4. God's eternal plan and purpose is that we have been created in Christ Jesus unto good works. Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. Good works that are beneficial to others but also reveal the righteousness of God.
5. The goodness of the Lord is seen when He is glorified in our lives. 2 Thessalonians 1:11, ‘Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:’ His goodness works in us so that we will become more and more like Jesus. This is the eternal plan and purpose of His goodness His nature and character will be glorified through those that He has saved from the world.
Summary:
1) Goodness is the nature and character of God.
2) Goodness will declare truth without concern for the consequences. Speaking can appear to be unkind at times, but goodness will say what a person needs to hear not just what they want to hear. But we must be careful to speak in a right way under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
3) Goodness always acts in unity with the righteousness of God.
4) Goodness will produce good works that glorify the Lord. We have been created in Christ Jesus to do good works that reflect the beauty of Jesus in us.
Checklist
1) Never let the desire to be kind stop us from speaking truth.
2) Always act in agreement with God’s righteousness and truth.
3) Seek to glorify the Lord through good works.
Notes:
DEDUCTIVE REASONING
Text: Matthew 19:16-17, ‘And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good (agathos) Master, what good (agathos) thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why call you me good? there is none good (agathos) but one, that is, God: but if you will enter into life, keep the commandments.'
The Rich Young Ruler approached Jesus using the word good (Greek agathos). Jesus was the Master Teacher. Jesus used deductive reasoning to teach the rich young ruler.
What is DEDUCTIVE REASONING?
Example:
Proposition: All a’s are b’s
c is an a
Conclusion: c is a b
Jesus used deductive reasoning with the Rich Young Ruler.
First of all Jesus drew the man’s attention to what he had said.
The logic of his words could only leave one conclusion that Jesus is God.
‘Good (agathos) Master’
‘Why do you call ME good?’ There is none good but God.
Proposition: There is none good but God
Jesus is good
Conclusion: Jesus is God
There is none good but God
All a's are b's
Jesus is good
c is an 'a'
Jesus is God
c is a 'b'
If the proposition is true - then the conclusion must always be true.
But if the proposition is wrong then the conclusion will be wrong.
Example of a wrong proposition leading to a wrong conclusion is the theory of human evolution.
Proposition: All species of animals evolved from lower life forms
Humans are a species of animal
Conclusion: Humans evolved from a lower life form
The conclusion is wrong because the proposition is wrong.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Eight (Outline)
Lesson Title: Faith
Theme: Faith is the life of the believer resting in the arms of the Lord.
Course Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: The fruit of faith (Greek: pistis) means faithful or trustful.
• Faith rests in the Lord. It is a beautiful fruit in the believer's life.
• Faith trusts the Lord at all times and in every circumstance, Romans 8:28.
• Faith relies upon the word of the Lord in the most difficult situations.
Introductory Story: Personal Testimony of being tried in the fire, 1 Peter 1:7
• The fruit of faith will keep us steadfast in what the Lord wants us to do.
• The trials will always test our commitment.
• Accusations made against us will show what is in our heart.
Question: What is the difference between the gift of faith and the fruit of faith? The gift of faith empowers to do great things.
The fruit of faith enables us to be victorious in daily life.
Main Points:
The fruit of faith - rests, trusts, rejoices, and overcomes.
1. Faith rests, Psalm 4:8.
• Faith has total confidence in the Lord.
• Illustration: Learning to swim, Hebrews 4:9.
2. Faith trusts in the character of the Lord,
• Faith seeks after His righteousness, Matthew 6:33.
• Trust comes through a close relationship with the Lord, Hebrews 10:38.
3. Faith relies upon the word of the Lord, Psalm 119:49.
• Faith in God’s word. Psalm 119; every verse connected with the word of God.
• Faith does not fear but rejoices in the Lord, Philippians 4:19.
• Faith allows the Christian to be generous even in difficult times, 2 Corinthians 9:7.
4. Faith is always victorious, 1 John 5:4.
• We overcome the world through faith.
• Faith enables us to be victorious in trials and persecutions.
Summary:
1) The fruit of faith rests in the Lord.
2) The fruit of faith will trust in the character of the Lord.
3) The fruit of faith relies upon the word of the Lord
4) The fruit of faith allows us to be victorious in all things.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Eight
Lesson Title: Faith
Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,'
Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: Faith (Greek: pistis).
In connection with the fruit of the Spirit, faith means faithful or trustful.
It is a total reliance upon the promises of God in our everyday lives. It is living our lives trusting fully in the Lord.
• It is being faithful to Christ in the most difficult situations because His Word can be relied upon.
• It is trusting the Lord at all times and in every circumstance knowing that everything is working together in His plan and purpose. Romans 8:28 'And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.'
• Faith in the believer's life is a beautiful fruit because it rests in the Lord.
Introductory Story: Personal Testimony: Tried in the fire. Testimony concerning serving the Lord despite facing great trials 1 Peter 1:7 ‘That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:’
• The fruit of faith will keep us steadfast in what the Lord wants us to do.
• The Lord will allow trials to test our commitment and He will allow people to speak against us to see what is in our heart. The works of the flesh will seek an opportunity to react against the trials and accusations, but the fruit of faith rests in the plan and purpose of God.
Question: What is the difference between the gift of faith and the fruit of faith?
• The gift of faith will empower us to do great things at a particular time.
• The fruit of faith will enable us to live a victorious Christian life.
Difference between the fruit of faith and the gift of faith.
The fruit of faith will rest in all circumstances.
The gift of faith will change a particular circumstance.
The fruit of faith will look at the mountain and say 'my help comes from the Lord', Psalm 121:1-2.
The gift of faith will look at the mountain and say 'be removed and cast into the sea', Mark 11:23.
The fruit of the Spirit remains constant in the life of the believer.
The gift of faith is temporary and occurs according to the will of the Holy Spirit, 1 Corinthians 12:11.
Main Points: The fruit of faith - rests, trusts, rejoices, and overcomes in the Lord.
1. Faith rests: David wrote Psalm 4:8 'I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for you, LORD, only makes me dwell in safety.' Faith has total confidence in the Lord.
• Illustration: Learning to swim. Gaining confidence in the water. Someone who struggles because of fear cannot learn to swim until they rest in the confidence that the water is able to hold them up.
• Resting means been dependent upon Christ. The rest of faith begins with salvation but continues though the fruit of faith in our daily lives. 'There remains therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also has ceased from his own works, as God did from his.' Hebrews 4:9
2. Faith trusts in the character of the Lord.
• Faith seeks after His righteousness, Matthew 6:33, 'But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.' Faith is not anxious but seeks to obey the Lord in al circumstances.
• Trust comes through relationship. '…The just shall live by faith', Hebrews 10:38. Faith grows through the closeness of our relationship with the Lord. Faith will never give up because the person knows that God is faithful and will not fail. Knowing the Lord as our heavenly Father,
3. Faith relies upon the word of the Lord. Psalm 119:49 ‘Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.’
• Faith does not fear but rejoices in the Lord. It allows the Christian to show kindness in the knowledge that the Lord will supply all our needs, Philippians 4:19 'But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.'
• The fruit of faith allows the Christian to be a generous giver in the face of great difficulties, 2 Corinthians 9:7 'Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.' A fearful Christian is one who does not produce the fruit of faith. Fear will block up the channels of generosity. Our needs will take priority over anything else. Life becomes a bondage in which we live to provide for ourselves.
4. Faith is always victorious.
• We overcome the world through faith. 'For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.' (1 John 5:4) The world means the system of the world that is controlled by '…the lust of the flesh; the lust of the eyes and the pride of life', 1 John 2:16.
• Faith enables us to overcome in trials and persecutions. 1 Peter 1:7, 'That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:'
Summary:
1) The fruit of faith rests in the Lord.
2) The fruit of faith will trust in the character of the Lord.
3) The fruit of faith relies upon the word of the Lord
4) The fruit of faith allows us to be victorious in all things.
Checklist
1) Learn to rest as a swimmer learns to rest in the water.
2) Get to know the Lord so that we can trust in His character.
3) Rely totally upon the word of the Lord.
4) Be victorious in every situation.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Nine (Outline)
Lesson Title: Meekness
Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: Meekness (Greek 'prautes') is the fruit that acknowledges God is at work in our own life and in the lives of others and willingly yields to his leadership.
1) Glorifies the Lord in every situation, Romans 8:28, Luke 22:42, Ephesians 3:1.
2) Glorifies the Lord through harmonious relationship with others. John 17:21, Matthew 6:9.
Introductory Story: Personal Testimony - Learning to be harmonious
Conflict arises in the body of Christ when we try to change people’s personalities rather than learning how to function together.
Main Points:
1. Meekness is in close relationship with humility. Ephesians 4:2 Colossians 3:12-14. Philippians 2:5-8.
Illustration: The Puff Adder becomes puffed up when it is threatened.
• Meekness never becomes puffed up. Acts 7:51-60. 1 Corinthians 13:4
2. Meekness seeks to restore a person who has fallen. Galatians 6:1-2
• Meekness restores, Galatians 6:1
Testimony: New roles 'becoming a father'.
• Meekness takes the pressure to relief burdens. Galatians 6:2
Story: Puff Pastry
• Love is the only motive capable of bearing burdens with meekness. 1 Corinthians 13:3
3. Meekness is essential for Holy Spirit anointed leadership, Numbers 12:3,
• Meekness encourages God’s people to minister. Numbers 11:29.
• Meekness builds up the body of Christ without self interest. 1 Peter 5:1-3
• Meekness is careful in its use of titles. 1 Peter 2:9
• Meekness brings a glorious inheritance. Matthew 5:5.
Summary:
Meekness will
1) …yield to the leadership of the Holy Spirit
2) …recognise His leadership in the lives of others.
3) …never become puffed up or seek to defend itself.
4) …always uphold the glory of God.
5) …seek to lift those who have fallen
6) …help others to develop in ministry.
7) …rejoice when the Lord uses others to minister.
8) …recognise that all believers are priests.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Nine
Lesson Title: Meekness
Text: 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law,' Galatians 5:22-23.
Introduction: Meekness (Greek 'prautes')
Meekness is the fruit that acknowledges God is at work in our own life and in the lives of others and willingly yields to his leadership.
1) Meekness will glorify the Lord in every situation.
• Meekness rejoices that the Lord is working all things for the good, Romans 8:28.
• And delights in His eternal plan and purpose.
Meekness is demonstrated
• When Jesus went to Gethsemane 'Saying, Father, if You be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but Yours, be done.' (Luke 22:42)
• Paul rejoiced in the eternal plan and purpose of God when He wrote to the Ephesians ‘I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles’ (Ephesians 3:1).
2) Meekness will glorify the Lord through harmonious relationship with others. John 17:21. Unity in the Spirit is not the absence of conflict it is working together in harmonious relationship.
• Meekness is able to blend with others so that the body of Christ can function in perfect harmony.
• The body of Christ must function together. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray He told them to say ‘our Father’, Matthew 6:9. We are a body and we need to be together.
• Meekness does not assert itself or seek its own interest.
• The world regards meekness as weakness, but it is the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit.
Introductory Story: Personal Testimony - Learning to function together.
One day I was working on my computer when I needed to meet my daughter who was coming home from school. My wife thought my son was coming too. She had made a chocolate cake with chocolate icing and was concerned that he would eat the icing with his finger. So she looked for a place to put the cake and put it on my chair by the computer. When I came home only my daughter was with me. My son got the later bus. I went into the room looking at the computer to remember what I was writing. I then sat down on the chair. I felt this strange warm feeling on my backside. I screamed to my wife. When I stood up it was just like I had had a nasty accident. My wife came in almost crying with laughter. I was not laughing. I said ‘why did you put it there?’ She said because Daniel always puts his finger along the cake and eats the icing. She then picked up the cake and put it back in the kitchen even though much of the icing was now on my trousers. Some time later Daniel came home from school and walked in through the kitchen door and immediately ran his finger through the chocolate icing and licked his finger.
We are different personalities and we must learn to work together. We cannot change our personalities but we do need to learn to work together so that we can all function in an effective manner. Conflict arises in the body of Christ when we try to change people’s personalities rather than learning how to function together.
Main Points:
1. Meekness is in close relationship with humility. Ephesians 4:2 'With all lowliness (humility) and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;'
• We are to put on humility with meekness. ‘Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do you. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.’ Colossians 3:12-14. Humility (Greek tapeinophrosune) means lowliness of mind and describes our attitude towards others. Philippians 2:5-8 tell us to have the same mind as Jesus. Though He was equal with God, He made Himself of no reputation. Humility is not considering ourselves to be small when we are really great. It is recognising the greatness of God and viewing ourselves in the knowledge of who He is.
Illustration: Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) - 'a large venomous African viper that inflates the upper part of its body and hisses when excited' The Puff Adder becomes puffed up when it is threatened.
• Meekness will always uphold the glory of God, but it will never become puffed up to defend itself when it is attacked. Look at Stephen who stands before the Jewish Council and says ‘You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit:’ (Acts 7:51). But when he is attacked physically he cries out loudly, ‘Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.’ (Acts 7:60). He has no concern for his own life but upholds with great boldness the glory of God in the face of tremendous opposition. 1 Corinthians 13:4 'Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love vaunts not itself (does not proudly boast of itself), is not puffed up,'
2. Meekness seeks to restore a person who has fallen. Galatians 6:1-2 'Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you who are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.'
• Meekness restores (v1) It stands in contrast to legalism, which condemns and pulls down. Meekness seeks to restore the fallen by carrying the burdens of others. Meekness will always seek to lift one who has fallen.
Testimony: When I became a father it wasn’t long before I was being criticised because of the behaviour of my son. Christians can be very critical especially when working closely together. Meekness will allow people to develop their skills in fulfilling new roles.
• Meekness takes the pressure to relief burdens. (v2) Bearing burdens requires strong shoulders. Trials produce strength. A person who is puffed up cannot do it because there is no substance to his or her character. Baros (Greek) 'burdens' means 'heaviness, weight, burden, trouble'. It relates to pressure. A puffed up person has no substance in character and will not be able to bear the burdens of one who has fallen.
Story: Puff Pastry - Cake appeared to have substance but full of air.
One time when my children were young they came to the station to see me off. I was going up to Scotland. Josa had given me a packed lunch to eat on the train. She also gave me a cake to eat. It was an Apple puff. At the station when we were waiting for the train, my son Daniel sat on my suitcase. The Apple puff was in a paper bag at the top of the case. When I came to eat the Apple puff there was nothing but some crumbs in the bag. The cake had no substance. Flaky pastry gave the cake an appearance of substance but once Daniel sat on it the outward façade was completely destroyed.
• Meekness bears the burdens of others in love. Bearing burdens means carrying someone else's burden. This means carrying the difficulties associated with the problem for someone in need. If we are not moved by a spirit of meekness then we are likely to blame the person for being in that difficult situation. The burden may be carried but it is not done in love. There will be no eternal reward. 1 Corinthians 13:3 'And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing.'
3. Meekness is essential for Holy Spirit anointed leadership, Numbers 12:3, (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.) The meekness of Moses is most clearly seen when God anoints others to minister.
• Meekness seeks to encourage God’s people to minister. Joshua was concerned for Moses when others prophesied but Moses rejoiced, Numbers 11:29 ‘And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD‘S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put His Spirit upon them!’ When a leader feels threatened by experienced and capable people who are able to minister in the Holy Spirit then he or she will quench the moving of the Holy Spirit by opposing their ministries. Meekness in leadership will rejoice when God uses others.
• Meekness in leadership will seek to build up the body of Christ without self interest. It will be an example to the body and will not try to control the members of the body of Christ. Even Peter did not put himself above the others but he says I am also an elder. 1 Peter 5:1-3 'The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.'
• Meekness is careful in its use of titles. In Denmark pastors are often called priests. By using the term priest for a leader it implies that the congregation are not priests. This is a denial of the New Testament doctrine of the priesthood of all believers. Everyone in the body of Christ is a priest who is called to offer spiritual sacrifices to God.
• There is no need for self exaltation because meekness brings a glorious inheritance. 'Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth' Matthew 5:5.
Summary:
Meekness will
1) …yield to the leadership of the Holy Spirit
2) …recognise His leadership in the lives of others.
3) …never become puffed up or seek to defend itself.
4) …always uphold the glory of God.
5) …seek to lift those who have fallen
6) …help others to develop in ministry.
7) …rejoice when the Lord uses others to minister.
8) …recognise that all believers are priests.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson 10 (Outline)
Lesson Title: Self-control (Temperance)
Text: Galatians 5:22-23 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.'
Introduction: Self-control is the Greek word 'Enkrateia' meaning 'in strength'.
• It is the fruit of the Holy Spirit and has nothing to do with will power.
• Strength to control desires, exercise restraint, and overcome evil passions.
Introductory Story: Paul spoke about self-control to Felix. Acts 24:25.
• Antonius Felix and Drusilla - Felix lured her away from her husband.
• Felix held power given by Rome, but he was controlled by his passions.
• Paul spoke about 'righteousness, self-control and judgement to come'.
• It was Felix the Roman governor who trembled before Paul the prisoner.
Main Points:
1. Self Control enables the believer to live a disciplined life. 1 Corinthians 9:27
The word castaway (Gr. adokimos) means 'unapproved'
• The tongue, James 1:26. The appetite, Philippians 3:19. The operation of spiritual gifts, 1 Corinthians 14:32.
• The athlete, 1 Corinthians 9:24-26. Soldier and farmer, 2 Timothy 2:3-6.
• Self control is not asceticism. Colossians 2:20-23.
• The gospel is new life in Christ Jesus bringing liberty. Colossians 3:1-3.
2. Self control guards our lives from wrong thoughts and actions, Colossians 3:5-11.
• Self-control must guard the thought life, 2 Corinthians 10:5.
• Lust cannot find a dwelling place when self-control guards the heart.
3. Self control releases the believer from undesirable habits. John 8:36
• Self control brings liberty to the believer, Galatians 5:1.
• Personal Testimony
• Self control enables us to overcome temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13
4. Self control considers the welfare of others. Matthew 18:6
• Careful not to be a stumbling block to another person, Romans 15:1-6.
• Liberty must be used with love. All things are lawful but not all things are expedient. (1 Corinthians 6:12; 10:23)
Summary: The fruit of the Spirit, self-control is not will power but the Holy Spirit in control of the will.
1) Self control empowers the believer to live a disciplined life
2) Self control is the guard that keeps us from evil desires.
3) Self control releases the believer from undesirable habits.
4) Self control keeps us from offending a believer in Christ through inconsiderate use of the freedom we have in Christ.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church
Course: The Fruit of the Spirit
Lesson Ten
Lesson Title: Self-control
Theme: Self-control is the power of the Holy Spirit restraining us so that we are in control of our desires and passions.
Text: Galatians 5:22-23 'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.'
Introduction: Self-control is the Greek word 'Enkrateia' - literally meaning 'in strength'.
• Self-control is the fruit of the Holy Spirit and has nothing to do with will power. It is the life of Christ in the believer.
• Self-control stands in contrast to a person who is controlled by the carnal nature and has no power to overcome the works of the flesh. It is the indwelling Spirit of God enabling the believer to have self-restraint at all times and in all things. It provides strength to control all desires so that the believer is subject to the leading of the Holy Spirit in every situation.
Introductory Story: Paul and Felix. (Acts 24:25).
‘And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for you.’
Details concerning Antonius Felix and Drusilla
• Felix was the Roman Procurator of Judea;
• His wife Drusilla was a Jewess.
• Drusilla was youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa 1 (who killed James in Acts 12).
• Drusilla was about 19 years old at time of Acts 24 (AD 57).
• She had been married to the King of Emesa, a small state in Syria.
• Felix lured her away from her husband with the help of a magician and she became Felix's third wife.
• Felix held power given by Rome, but he was a man controlled by his passions.
Paul before Felix
Paul is a prisoner and Felix is the most powerful man in Judea but it is in Paul who is in control of the situation.
Paul does not talk about his own situation but he takes the opportunity to preach the gospel to Felix and Drusilla. He spoke about 'righteousness, self-control and judgement to come'.
Paul had a power Felix did not have the power over the dominion of sin in his life. Paul was empowered in daily life by the Holy Spirit with the fruit of self-control.
It was Felix the Roman governor who trembled before Paul the prisoner.
The fruit of self control will empower the believer so that he or she is in control of every circumstance and situation.
Main Points:
1. Self Control enables the believer to live a disciplined life in order to run for an eternal prize. 1 Corinthians 9:27. The word castaway (Gr. adokimos) means 'unapproved' - it refers to being approved of God in the way we live so as to win an eternal prize. It does not refer to salvation, which comes through repentance and faith in Christ alone. Acts 20:21 'Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.'
Self control in all things.
• The tongue. James 1:26 'If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridles not his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.'
• The appetite. Philippians 3:19 'Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.'
• Even the operation of spiritual gifts must be with self control, 1 Corinthians 14:32.
Self Control is necessary to be an effective witness.
• The Athlete - temperate in all things to be ready to run in the race. 1 Corinthians 9:24-26.
• The Soldier - Disciplined to obey. 2 Timothy 2:3-4. Disciplined life - A disciple of Christ. Not taken up by worldly affairs. Diligent in holiness, Bible study, and prayer.
• The Farmer - must first partake of the fruits. 2 Timothy 2:6. The fruit of self control must be seen first in the life of the preacher.
Self control is not asceticism.
• It is not punishing the flesh to help the soul. Carnality brings bondage. Following the commandments of men - Colossians had taken in a form of Gnostic philosophy. Colossians 2:20-23. Doctrine of devils - forbidding to marry, abstaining from meats. Many religious practices have an appearance of godliness but they are evil because they . It associates works with salvation Bible calls them evil. 1 Timothy 4:1-3.
• The gospel is new life in Christ Jesus, which brings liberty. Risen with Christ., Colossians 3:1-3.
2. Self control guards our lives from wrong thoughts and actions, Colossians 3:5-11. The believer must put to death the things associated with the carnal nature.
• Self-control is able to guard the thought life. Every thought and desire is to be under the control of the Holy Spirit. Paul said he brought every thought into captivity, 2 Corinthians 10:5. The Holy Spirit was in control so that no uncontrolled thought was allowed to have access into Paul's mind. The importance of our thoughts is known when we realise that our minds are the dwelling place of God; the place of communion with God. Psalms 139:23 'Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:'
Paul told the Philippians what to think about, Philippians 4:8.
• Lust cannot find a dwelling place when self-control guards the heart. The sins of the youth bear painful memories throughout life. 'Remember not the sins of my youth', Psalm 25:7. Self-control must always be on guard. Not just in youth but at all times. David fell into adultery when he was the King of Israel, 2 Samuel 11:1-5.
Time to run - flee youthful lusts, 2 Timothy 2:22.
Joseph ran leaving his coat behind. Genesis 39:12.
Personal Testimony: Philippines - naval servicemen coming to Subic Bay had 'no self-control'. They were an easy prey for evil (Proverbs 7).
3. Self control releases the believer from undesirable habits. John 8:36 'If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.'
• Self control brings liberty to the believer, Galatians 5:1. The believer is a new creation in Christ. New life in Christ Jesus will set the believer from the undesirable habits of the old life.
Personal Testimony:
When I was saved I felt dirty when I smoked cigarettes. I had tried to give up smoking before I was saved and I always started again. But when I got saved I said to the Lord that I was a new creation and the new life in Chist was not addicted to cigarettes. I told the Lord that if I had no desire to smoke then I would not do it. The next day I went to work. The woman who worked near me was surprised when I did not light a cigarette as soon as I arrived. She asked me aren't you going to light a cigarette. I told her I will never smoke again. She did not believe me but I knew. That was 30 years ago. Never smoked again. This was not will power it was the life of Christ in me producing the fruit of self control.
• Self control enables the believer to overcome temptation. The believer is always provided with a way of escape from temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13 'There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.' The believer can have complete victory by resisting the devil.
4. Self control considers the welfare of others. Matthew 18:6 'But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.'
• Self-control not only keeps us from evil but it will also empower us so that we will not be a stumbling block to another person, Romans 15:1-6. The Lord gives liberty to the believer in many areas but a disciplined life is necessary in order not to offend another believer (1 Corinthians 8:9). Liberty must be used with love. All things are lawful but not all things are expedient. (1 Corinthians 6:12; 10:23)
• Drinking alcohol and eating meat. Romans 14:21 'It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.'
a. Alcohol. Nowhere does the Bible forbid drinking alcohol. But it does forbid drunkenness, Ephesians 5:18. But for some alcohol means one thing - getting drunk. If this kind f person sees a Christian drink alcohol it can have a disastrous effect. Why should we encourage people to drink alcohol when it has destroyed many lives, families and homes. The Bible gives a wonderful alternative to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
b. Eating meat sacrificed to idols. 1 Corinthians 8. Meat was sold in the market at Corinth that had been sacrificed to idols. The meat was just as good as any other meat but a person who had been saved from worshipping idols could be made to stumble if he or she saw a Christian eating meat sacrificed to idols.
• We must always be led by love expressed through self control. Galatians 5:13 'For, brethren, you have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.'
Summary: The fruit of the Spirit, self-control is not will power but the Holy Spirit in control of the will.
5) Self control empowers the believer to live a disciplined life
6) Self control is the guard that keeps us from evil desires.
7) Self control releases the believer from undesirable habits.
8) Self control keeps us from offending a believer in Christ through inconsiderate use of the freedom we have in Christ.
Checklist
1) Let self-control guard our thoughts, desires and actions.
2) Let self-control keep us from causing another person to stumble.
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