What is the fruit of the Spirit? from Compelling Truth
The phrase “the fruit of the Spirit” has caused a great deal of confusion over the years. Perhaps it would be best to begin by explaining what the fruit of the Spirit is not. It is not the result of any effort anyone can make. Not the effort to have faith or to obey or to be loving and kind. The fruit of the Spirit has nothing directly to do with any exertion a believer can make.
The fruit of the Spirit is the natural result of the presence of the Holy Spirit residing in a believer. Philippians 2:13 says, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Conversely, Isaiah 64:6 says, “all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment…” In and of ourselves, we cannot do good. As Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace … equip you with everything good that you may do his will.” God accomplishes this as the Holy Spirit indwells believers, changing their character (Philippians 1:6) and manifesting good “fruit.” Galatians 5:22-23 lists the characteristics of this fruit.
Love – agape: Agape love is not a sentimental, sweet, affectionate emotion. It is a choice to put others first and to sacrifice ourselves on their behalf (John 15:13). This kind of love can only come through God’s power.
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Joy – chara: Joy is not happiness; that is, it does not depend on “happenstance.” It is independent of our worldly situation. In Philippians 2:1-4, Paul associates complete joy with fellowship and peace in the body of Christ. True joy is the result of a right relationship with God.
Peace – eirene: Peace means everything good within relationships: harmony, friendliness, safety, order, rest, and contentment. First Corinthians 3:3 asserts that the opposite—strife—is from the flesh.
Patience – makrothumia: Patience here does not refer to keeping your temper or waiting out an inconvenience. It actually means longsuffering in the face of persecution or abuse. It brings to mind 1 Corinthians 13:5-7 and Jesus’ silence while He was being whipped and beaten (Isaiah 53:7).
