What Makes the Mission Possible? (Galatians 5:22–26)
Category : Blogpost
Now turn to Paul’s letter to the Galatians. He has been arguing that we are saved by faith, not by works of the law. However, then he asks: if we are free from the law, how should we live? His answer is shocking: you are free to love. You are free to be led by the Spirit. Moreover, the evidence of that Spirit-led life is a set of qualities he calls the fruit of the Spirit.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Each of these words deserves its own meditation. However, notice the singular: fruit, not fruits. These are not a menu you pick from; they are a package deal. The Spirit produces all of them in a growing Christian, not just the ones that come naturally to your personality.
Love is the willing sacrifice for the good of others. Joy is deep gladness that is not dependent on circumstances. Peace is wholeness and harmony with God, others, and self. Forbearance is patience, the willingness to bear with difficult people. Kindness is practical goodness toward others. Goodness is moral excellence that does what is right. Faithfulness is reliable trustworthiness. Gentleness is strength under control. Self-control is mastery over your own desires.
Paul says, Against such things there is no law. These qualities are evidence that the Spirit is at work in you. They are not produced by trying harder; they are produced by abiding in Christ and walking by the Spirit.
Stay tuned!