It is with great pleasure and gratitude that I, Keith Hunt,
here present the articles that appeared in ACTS magazine
(November 2002 - Vol. 52 - Number 10) published by The General
Council of the Churches of God (7th Day), 1827 W. 3rd. Street,
Meridian, ID 83642-1653.
All capital letter words are mine throughout these series of
studies, for emphasis.
From the Editor's Desk
THE HOLY SPIRIT
Empowering the Body
The work of God's Spirit to empower the Body of Christ, the
Church, is one of the most overlooked experiences in the Church
of God today. It is tragic that many have robbed themselves of
blessings because they distrust, fear or in some cases, even
despise what is sometimes called the BAPTISM of the Holy Spirit.
(I will be explaining in another article the linguistics of
"baptism of the Spirit.") They have been satisfied with a
low level of spirituality and have not allowed God to release
them in prayer, praise, personal relationship, and edifying the
body of Christ, from the imprisonment of age-long
inhibitions. They have not expected to see God at work in
conversions, in changing lives, in healing and miracles and in
explicit guidance. They have forgotten that the manifestations of
God's Spirit at Pentecost had an uncomfortable, but concrete
nature.
Some of the divisions in the Church of God have come from
the narrow fearful, unspiritual Christianity in whose
lukewarmness many of us have for so long been willing to stay,
terrified to launch out into a deep experience of God. In an age
when the Spirit of God is breaking down the man-made barriers and
is edifying the Body of Christ all over the world, it would be
ironic indeed if we missed what God has for us because we refused
to get beyond false linguistics and counterfeits.
The articles in this issue of ACTS magazine will NOT deal
with the NATURE of God's Spirit, but will present the WORK of
God's Spirit to EMPOWER the members of the Body of Christ.
My intention is to CLEARLY show HOW Spiritual Gifts can
enable God's people to participate more effectively in the
implementation of Jesus' commission to take the Gospel to the
WHOLE world. "Go ye therefore and teach all nations....Teaching
them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you"
(Matthew 28: 19,20).
This work is to prepare God's people for works of SERVICE,
so that the Body of Christ may be BUILT UP until we ALL reach
unity in the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God and
maturITY, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of
Christ. (paraphrase of Ephesians 4: 12, 13).
One article will deal with the GIFT of the Spirit and how to
RECEIVE it. Another article will discuss the GIFTS of the Spirit.
Still another article will explain the FRUIT of the Spirit. There
will be a discussion of the things that the GIFTS of the Spirit
are NOT, so that we can avoid the counterfeits. The LINGUISTICS
used to describe the WORK of the Spirit of God will be explained
to help avoid misunderstandings.
We are living in the last days and God wants us to take the
Gospel message to the WHOLE world. He has chosen YOU to be that
vessel. Unless the vessel is filled with the Spirit of God, the
good news of Christ will not go forth. I believe God has called
upon the Church of God 7th Day as PART of the remnant to prepare
the body to proclaim to proclaim this Gospel message to the
world. God has given the Church wonderful truths that must not be
hidden in these last days, but must be proclaimed from the
mountain tops (I may add here that I also believe this Website is
a part of proclaiming the Gospel to the whole world - Keith
Hunt).
God is wanting and waiting to EMPOWER His Body. When the
GIFTS of the Spirit are utilized in the Church, we will see
church growth as we have never seen it since the Day of
Pentecost. May God's Church be triumphant!
GOD'S GIFT AT PENTECOST
As we begin our study of God's gift at Pentecost, it is
important to understand the meaning of both the Hebrew and Greek
word used for the Spirit of God.
RUACH in the Hebrew and PNEUMA in Greek have THREE main
meanings of "wind" - "breath" - "spirit."
The Spirit of God is the life-giving breath without which
man remains spiritually dead. It is God's mysterious, powerful
wind, as Nicodemus was reminded by Jesus, that can not be
controlled by man. The notions of POWER and MYSTERY mark much of
the teachings of the Old and New Testaments relating to the
Spirit of God.
SPIRIT OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
The Spirit of God in the Bible is no natural quality of man.
It is not found within some hidden recess within our bodies. The
Hebrews did not divide man into spirit, mind, and body, as many
Christian teachers do today. They thought of man as a single
entity, a living person. This quality of life was described by
the Hebrew word NEPHESH. Only in rare cases is the word NEPHESH
ever brought into contact with RUACH (spirit).
RUACH and NEPHESH can be thought of as each having their own
circle of meaning. Occasionally those circles intersect, but the
main content of each is clear. NEPHESH is NATURAL; it belongs to
man. RUACH is SUPERNATURAL: it belongs to God. Though RUACH may
be found in man, but since the fall of Adam, it is on loan, and
not a possession. In the Old Testament, RUACH was considered a
resident alien, not a native.
Just as the Spirit cannot be equated with any property of
man, equally it cannot be regarded as the stuff of which the
world is made, as pantheists teach. Through pagan philosophical
influence, the Stoics maintained a view that the spirit was the
comprehensive life principle which integrates the universe. The
Old Testament insists that this powerful, mysterious Spirit
belongs to God, and to God alone. It is essentially the
PERSONAL God, Yahweh, in action. It is from this teaching in the
Old Testament that gives the background for the Christian
doctrine of the Spirit of God. The Old Testament presents the
emphasis on the Spirit of God as a powerful, invading force.
God's action is like the wind, strong, boisterous,
uncontrollable. He sends the wind. He controls it and
He causes it to cease. The Spirit of God is His powerful work
from OUTSIDE our experience. As we surrender to the invading
power of God's Spirit, there becomes a willingness for Him to
take us, break us and use us in a dramatic way.
Throughout the Old Testament, there is a frequent link
between "the Spirit of the Lord" and "the Word of the Lord." The
breath of God and the message of God cannot be divorced. Time and
time again, the parallelism of the Hebrew DABAR (word) and RUACH
(spirit) go HAND IN HAND. "By the word of the Lord were the
heavens made and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth"
(Psalm 33:6). "The Spirit of the Lord speaks by me, his word is
upon my tongue" (2 Samuel 23:2).
Just as the will of God cannot be known without the
revelation of the Spirit, so the service of God cannot be carried
through without the equipment of that same Spirit. It is only
through God's REVELATION that we can KNOW Him. It is only through
His POWER that we can serve Him. The prophet cries out in Isaiah
61:1, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because the Lord has
anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; He has
sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the
captives, and the opening of prison to those who are bound; to
proclaim the year of the Lord's favor...."
On the whole, you had to be someone rather special in the
Old Testament days to have the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God
was not for EVERYONE in the old covenant. There were promises in
a very general sense to people as a whole, "My Spirit abides with
you, fear not" (Haggai 2:5), but NOT a promise to EVERY
individual. The gift of God's Spirit was to spacial people for
special tasks. It was not generally available, nor was it
necessarily PERMANENT. Moses longed for the time when God's
Spirit would be given to every individual. "Would that ALL the
Lord's people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit
upon them" (Numbers 11:29).
(See also Deut. 5:29 and 29:4 with Romans chap. 9 to 11 -
Keith Hunt).
God led the prophets to foretell this for the last days,
"And it shall come to pass afterwards, that I will pour out my
Spirit upon all flesh; your sons and daughters shall prophesy,
your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see
visions. Even upon the menservants and the maidservants in those
days I will pour out my Spirit" (Joel 2:28).
God did exactly that on the Day of Pentecost, and the gifts
had never been withdrawn. Through the prophets, God introduced a
covenant relationship involving a complete pardon, a personal
knowledge of the Lord, and the will of God no longer external to
them on tablets of stone, but written INWARDLY on their HEARTS.
Ezekiel specifically attributes this change to the Spirit of
God, "I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be
clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will
cleanse you. A NEW HEART will I give you, and a NEW SPIRIT will I
put WITHIN you; and I will take out of your flesh the heart of
STONE, and give you a heart of FLESH. And I will put MY SPIRIT
WITHIN you, and cause you to WALK in my STATUTES" (Ezekiel
36:25).
God's OWN Spirit WITHIN man would warm his heart to WANT to
go God's way, and also to EMPOWER him to STAY in His way.
This was the HOPE for the last days, and this was the hope
that had been fulfilled at Pentecost.
A surprise to most Christians is that in the Old Testament
the Spirit does not appear as a divine being. He is rather seen
as God's personal presence and intervention. When the Spirit of
God is present with man, it means the gracious and PERSONAL
intervention of God Himself. The Spirit is the personal
expression of God Himself, and can be grieved. God's Spirit is
holy, and is not only divine POWER, but the MORAL CHARACTER of
God. The Spirit of God is God in ACTION for the benefit of His
people. The Spirit is no less than the PERSONAL, MORAL, ACTIVE
POWER of the Heavenly Father.
THE SPIRIT OF GOD IN THE GOSPELS
A new era had dawned with the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.
Jesus was endowed with the Spirit of God. He was BOTH the unique
BEARER of that Spirit, as well as the DISPENSER of that Spirit to
the disciples.
The four evangelists made it abundantly plain that during
the period of Jesus' ministry on this earth, He alone was the man
uniquely possessed by the Spirit of God. Just as the Spirit was
active in breathing life into the first man (Genesis 2:7), so the
Spirit of God is associated with the birth of the last Adam,
Jesus. (And it is written that Jesus had the Spirit without
measure, He had it fully and completely from conception and
birth, so helping him to remain sinless, the only human person to
never sin, not once - Keith Hunt).
Jesus was a man empowered by God's Spirit with a mission.
The Spirit during Jesus' ministry was concentrated in Him and was
only available to the disciples WHEN they were engaged in the
mission.
Jesus was the unique DISPENSER of the Spirit. All four of
the Gospels record the promise of John the Baptist that whereas
he baptized in water, the ONE who comes after him will baptize
with the Holy Spirit, "I baptize you with water, but he (Jesus)
will baptize you with the Holy Spirit" (Mark 1:8). John saw his
baptism as the preparation for the new era of the Holy Spirit.
John knew that his baptism was merely preparatory for the baptism
of the Holy Spirit that Jesus would begin. Jesus did not baptize
with the Holy Spirit UNTIL AFTER His death and resurrection. "By
this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were
later to receive, since Jesus had not yet been glorified" (John
7:39).
Jesus was equipped for His messianic mission by the Spirit
promised for the last days. This Spirit was not available to
others when Jesus was alive in the flesh. (Unless, as the writer
pointed out, Jesus gave it to them at certain times for a certain
mission, as when sending out the seventy to preach and heal and
work miracles - Keith Hunt).
After His death and resurrection, the last days were
extended by the followers of Jesus inheriting His mission, His
authority and His Spirit (Spirit of God). "Nevertheless I tell
you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I
go not away, the Comforter will not come to you; but if I depart,
I will send him to you" (John 16:7). "But the Comforter, which is
the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall
teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance,
whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26). The Comforter,
which is the Holy Spirit, came exactly as Jesus said on the Day
of Pentecost.
THE SPIRIT OF GOD AT PENTECOST
Over a period of forty days, Jesus taught His disciples and
gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the
gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For
John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be
baptized with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 1:4,5). What was the gift
the Father promised? "And it shall come to pass afterwards, that
I will pour out my SPIRIT upon all flesh; and your sons and
daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your
young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon
the handmaids in those days will I pour out my SPIRIT" (Joel
2:28,29).
The gift the Father promised is the baptism in the Holy
Spirit. The fulfillment of that promise is described as being
"filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:4).
"Baptism in the Spirit" and "filled with the Spirit" are at
times used INTERCHANGEABLY in Acts. Why did Jesus tell His
disciples to wait? The answer is found in Acts 1:8, "But you will
receive POWER when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be
my WITNESSES in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to
the ENDS of the earth."
This is the KEY verse in the book of Acts and the theme of
this issue of Acts magazine.
The PRIMARY purpose of the baptism of the Spirit is the
receiving of the POWER to WITNESS for Christ so that the lost
will be won over to Him and taught to obey all that God commands.
The end result is that Christ may be KNOWN, LOVED, PRAISED and
made Lord of God's chosen people. The baptism in the Holy Spirit
is God's PROVISION for RELEASING the POWER of the Holy Spirit
into the believer's life. The baptism in the Holy Spirit not only
imparts POWER to preach Jesus as Lord and Savior, but ALSO
increases the EFFECTIVENESS of that witness because of a
strengthening and DEEPENING RELATIONSHIP with the Father that
comes with being filled with the Spirit.
The baptism in the HolY Spirit is the initiation point
whereby Spirit-filled believers receive the POWER to witness for
Christ and to bring conviction of sin, righteousness and
judgment on the lost. The effects of such conviction will become
evident both in those who sincerely proclaim the message and in
those who receive it. The baptism in the Holy Spirit can be given
ONLY to those whose hearts are turned towards God in REPENTANCE
from their wicked ways and in humbleness. It is MAINTAINED by the
CONTINUED, sincere COMMITMENT to God. The Spirit's FULLNESS is
not merely a ONE-TIME initial experience, but a LIFE of RENEWED
fillings for God-given needs and tasks.
Those who have been baptized in the Holy Spirit will have an
INTENSE DESIRE to please God in whatever way they can. The
fullness of the Spirit COMPLEMENTS the SAVING and SANCTIFYING
work of God's Spirit in their lives. Those who claim the
fullness of the Spirit, yet live a life CONTRARY to the Spirit of
holiness, are DECEIVED and untruthful. Those who display
spiritual gifts, miracles, spectacular signs or inspiring
oratory, yet lack TRUE FAITH, LOVE, and RIGHTEOUSNESS, are
operating NOT by the Spirit of God but by an UNHOLY spirit NOT
from God.
CONCLUSION
God's gift at Pentecost was the pouring out of God's Spirit
upon all flesh to EMPOWER the body of Christ with GIFTS of the
Spirit to enable the Gospel to be spread to the WHOLE world.
Because of PASSIVENESS, FEAR and LACK of SOLID TEACHING, the
receptiveness of the GIFTS of the Spirit has been LACKING and
God's empowerment has been LIMITED. God has chosen the believer
to be empowered to DO the WORK of the ministry. This work will
not be done by OUR talents, or the fruit we bear (though very
important), but by the POWER of God's SPIRIT through GIFTS of the
Spirit, "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the
Lord" (Zechariah 4:6).
...........................
TO BE CONTINUED
3 THINGS GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT ARE NOT!Understanding the Gifts of the SpiritWe continue here with the articles that were published in the
November 2002 ACTS magazine, from the General Council of the
Churches of God (7th Day), Meridian, ID.
It is IMPORTANT to dispel any ignorance about spiritual
gifts so that no confusion exists which might have a tendency to
throw some people off track. "Now concerning SPIRITUAL GIFTS,
brethren, I would NOT HAVE YOU IGNORANT" (1 Corinthians 12:1).
Spiritual gifts are often CONFUSED with NATURAL talents,
FRUIT of the Spirit, and, to a great extent, COUNTERFEIT gifts. I
will consider these one at a time.
NATURAL TALENTS
It is imperative to distinguish between SPIRITUAL GIFTS and
NATURAL TALENTS. Every human being possesses certain NATURAL
talents. These talents, by virtue of being made in the image of
God, come from God and are derived from or through parents. There
are obviously different VARIATIONS and degrees among the
natural talents. Part of every human being's unique personality
has to do with the particular MIX of talents that we have. God
bestows talents upon mankind to benefit mankind on the NATURAL
level.
Having natural talents has NOTHING DIRECTLY to do with being
a Christian or being a member of the body of Christ. Many
ATHEISTS, for example, have SUPERB talents for one thing or
another. They have natural talents but they do NOT have SPIRITUAL
gifts.
Christians, like anyone else, also have NATURAL talents. But
they should NOT be confused with SPIRITUAL gifts. Such talents
may and ought to be dedicated to the Lord to be used for His
glory and in His service, but they must always be considered
consecrated talents, NOT SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
Spiritual gifts are dispensed to BELIEVERS. "But the
manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit
withal" (1 Cor. 12:7).
An unbeliever may have the talent to TEACH. He is able to
impart knowledge and facts but not in such a way as to bring
SPIRITUAL blessing and growth. POWER and BLESSING are missing
where there is natural talent only. Even a BELIEVER may have
the talent WITHOUT the gift. It is a tragic mistake to assume
that every talented teacher has the GIFT of TEACHING. If there is
NO gift, there will be a mere imparting of facts done WITHOUT the
POWER and BLESSING of God. Conversely, one may have the
GIFT of teaching APART FROM any natural talent to teach.
When that person is EMPOWERED by the Spirit of God, he is
endowed with a NEW capacity - the GIFT of teaching. God has OFTEN
raised up great PREACHERS out of families with NO history of such
capabilities. There is NO element of heredity involved as with a
natural talent. It is for God to choose what GIFT He imparts to
His believers. "But ALL these worketh that one and selfsame
Spirit, DIVIDING to every man severally AS HE WILL"
(1 Corinthians 12:11).
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
The FRUIT of the Spirit is described in Galatians 5:22,23,
"But the fruit of the Spirit is LOVE, joy peace, long-suffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance, against such
there is no law."
Some Bible expositors point out the fact that the "fruit" is
SINGULAR, and that the original Greek would permit a colon after
love. All these other things are different ASPECTS of LOVE.
The greatest gift God has given us is His gift of LOVE, yet
it should not be listed with the SPIRITUAL GIFTS. Love is not
something that God imparts LIMITEDLY to SOME of the Body, but not
to others. LOVE is to be the result of an abiding relationship
with Jesus in ALL believer. "We love God because He fist loved
us" (1 John 4:19).
The FRUIT of the Spirit is the NORMAL, expected outcome of
spiritual growth, and fullness of the Holy Spirit. FRUIT is not
discovered like the GIFTS, but developed by the believers WALK
with God. Both GIFTS and FRUIT are the total work of the Spirit
of God. While Spiritual Gifts help define WHAT a believer DOES,
the Fruit of the Spirit helps define what a believer IS.
(I might add that God gives His Spirit to ALL you REPENT and
are willing to OBEY Him - Acts 2:38 and 5:32. The AUTOMATIC
result of having God's Spirit is the LOVE of God flowing into and
out of that believer - Romans 5:5. The love of God is defined for
us in 1 John 5:3 as keeping the commandments of God. This is
automatically the way of life with God for all His Spirit
begotten children, and is not something that is only given
to or distributed to some as the Spirit wills, which is the case
with Spiritual gifts. The various Spiritual gifts are given to
various individuals as chosen and willed by the Spirit,
but LOVE and all its defined fruits is given to every Spirit
filled believer that walk in the way of the Father and their
Savior Christ Jesus - Keith Hunt).
Though DIFFERENT, there seems to be a direct RELATIONSHIP
between the EFFECTIVENESS of Spiritual gifts and the DEVELOPMENT
of the Fruit of the Spirit. Gifts WITHOUT Fruit are WORTHLESS.
The believers in Corinth were busy DISCOVERING and USING their
Spiritual Gifts, yet they became Spiritual DISASTERS because they
LACKED the FRUIT of the Spirit. That is why Paul sandwiched 1
Corinthians 13 in between his discourse on Spiritual Gifts found
in chapters 12 and 14. Paul explained to them and also to us that
if you had ALL the Gifts of the Spirit but WITHOUT FRUIT
(love), they amounted to ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and
have not charity (love) I am become as sounding brass, or as a
tinkling cymbal. 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 charity
(love), I am NOTHING" (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are TEMPORAL to build up the
body of Christ (yes indeed can be so, for Paul could at times do
mighty and great miracles of healing, but later it would seem he
could not heal Timothy of his stomach problems, but told him to
take a little wine for help, and he could not heal himself from
the "thorn in his flesh" which he asked the Lord to remove three
times, but the Lord answered that His grace was sufficient for
him, and would not heal him from this trouble - see 2 Cor. 12 and
1 Tim. 5:23 - Keith Hunt) but the FRUIT is ETERNAL. In the same
chapter we are told that Gifts such as prophecy, tongues and
knowledge shall all VANISH away. "Charity (love) NEVER faileth:
but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail (come to pass
and so be no more, or people or nations will repent and so the
prophecy will not happen as was the case with Jonah being sent to
Ninevah, see the book of Jonah - Keith Hunt); whether there be
knowledge, it shall vanish away (the knowledge of what makes the
earth stay in orbit around the sun is now known and so that part
of knowledge is found and is no more un-knowledge, as we might
say - Keith Hunt) (1 Corinthians 13: 8).
GIFTS are TASK-ORIENTED to spread the Gospel to the whole
world. FRUIT is GOD-ORIENTED forming the believer into the IMAGE
of God. It is important to note that every place in Scripture
that deals with the GIFTS is ALSO accompanied by passages
of FRUIT. (See Romans 12:8-10; Ephesians 4:16; 5:2; 1 Peter 4:8,9
and 1 Corinthians 12; 13).
COUNTERFEIT GIFTS
Do not confuse Spiritual Gifts with counterfeit gifts. Satan
and his evil spirits are real and actively OPPOSE the work of the
Lord. He is the author of CONFUSION. Jesus said, "For there shall
arise FALSE Christs, and FALSE prophets, and shall show great
SIGNS and WONDERS; insomuch that, IF it was possible, they shall
deceive the very ELECT" (Matthew 24:24).
Jesus also speaks about those who PROPHECY and CAST OUT
demons in His name, but who, in reality, are WORKERS of INIQUITY
(See Matthew 7:22,23). Every Spiritual Gift supplied by the Holy
Spirit CAN BE COUNTERFEITED by Satan and may be used to influence
both Christians and non-Christians.
In order to deal with the problem of DISTINGUISHING
Spiritual Gifts from COUNTERFEIT gifts, many Christians teach
TOTAL AVOIDANCE of ALL Spiritual Gifts. In this way, the church
will not have to DISCERN the DIFFERENCE. God has given Spiritual
Gifts to build up the body of Christ. Through avoidance and
indifference concerning Spiritual Gifts, Satan has suppressed the
growth of the Church. We must turn our FEAR into DISCERNMENT, so
that the Church can be about God's business of spreading the
Gospel.
The Bible gives us some help in distinguishing Spiritual
Gifts from counterfeit gifts. I John 4: 1 says, "Beloved, believe
NOT EVERY spirit, but TRY the spirits whether they are of God;
because many FALSE prophets have gone out into the world. Hereby
know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that
Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God (The Greek tense here
for 'is come' means Jesus did come in the flesh literally
as a human person, and is still coming into the flesh, coming
into His physical flesh followers via the Holy Spirit, hence
living His life again within them, just as Paul said in
Galatians 2:20. Jesus will still be obeying the commandments of
the Father, and living as He did when walking this earth as a
human person - Keith Hunt); and every spirit that confesseth NOT
that Jesus is come (same Greek tense as before) in the flesh is
NOT of God."
(Those who say and teach that the Ten Commandments, any of
them, are "done away with" under the New Covenant age, or that
Jesus is not now still coming and living His life over again
within the Christian as Paul clearly taught He was - see again
Galatians 2: 20 - are FALSE teachers and false prophets, even if
they can perform what on the outside looks like any of the Gifts
of the Spirit, they have a spirit that is NOT the Spirit of the
Lord, and what they can perform are then counterfeit gifts of the
Spirit, coming from a spirit that is in reality the spirit of
anti-christ -see 1 John 4:3 - Keith Hunt).
The Spirit of God is available by the acceptance of Jesus
Christ as Lord and Savior. Discernment of Spiritual Gifts from
the counterfeit comes with a DEEP STUDY of the WORD of God. "But
strong meat (food) belongeth to them that are of FULL AGE,
even those who by reason of USE have their senses EXERCISED to
DISCERN BOTH GOOD AND EVIL" (Hebrews 5:13,14). "These (Bereans)
were more NOBLE than those in Thessalonica, in that they RECEIVED
the WORD will all READINESS of mind, and SEARCHED the Scriptures
DAILY whether those things WERE SO" (Acts 17:11).
Many have been RELUCTANT to DESIRE Gifts of the Spirit
because of the FANATICISM they see in various churches. Much of
this fanaticism's ROOT is a total MISUNDERSTANDING of the PURPOSE
and FUNCTION of Spiritual gifts. The purpose is to BENEFIT
mankind on the Spiritual level by EMPOWERING the believer to
POWERFULLY present the Gospel and help bring about CONVICTION to
the unsaved. The function of the Gift is not to be used for
SELF-edification, but to be used for the glory of God and the
building up of the body of Christ.
CONCLUSION
Even though counterfeits are prevalent in some churches,
this should NOT hinder us from SEEKING God's true Gifts of the
Spirit. The church will not become what God intends it to be
unless the body of Christ equips itself with the Gifts of the
Spirit. When the church begins to discern the DIFFERENCE between
NATURAL talents and SPIRITUAL Gifts and between FRUIT of the
Spirit and SPIRITUAL Gifts, God will EMPOWER His church with the
Gifts of the Spirit.
POSTSCRIPT
COMPARING GIFTS AND TALENTS
Gifts
1. Supernatural abilities from the Holy Spirit
Talents
1. Natural abilities from posterity and environment
Gifts
2. May be used for selfish or Godly purposes
Talents
2. May be used for selfish or Godly purposes
Gifts
3. From baptism of the Spirit
Talents
3. From birth
Gifts
4. To benefit mankind on the Spiritual level
Talents
4. To benefit mankind on the natural level
Gifts
5. Task-oriented
Talents
5. Self-oriented
Gifts
6. Given and developed by the Holy Spirit
Talents
6. Recognized and developed by man
Gifts
7. Gifts are used to build-up the Body of Christ
Talents
7. Talents used to build-up man
COMPARING GIFTS AND FRUIT
Gifts
1. Supernatural abilities from the Holy Spirit
Fruit
1. Supernatural changes in life from the Holy Spirit
Gifts
2. May be used for selfish or godly purposes
Fruit
2. May be counterfeited by self works
Gifts
3. Gifts are temporal
Fruit
3. Fruit is eternal
Gifts
4. Have to do with what a Christian does
Fruit
4. Have to do with what a Christian is
Gifts
5. Task-oriented
Fruit
5. God-oriented
Gifts
6. Refer to function and calling
Fruit
6. Refer to relationships and spiritual quality
Gifts
7. Gifts without fruit are worthless
Fruit
7. Fruit without gifts will not build up the Church
....................
TO BE CONTINUED
Discovering Your Spiritual GiftsHow to find and sustain themWe continue here with the articles that were published in the
November 2002 ACTS magazine, from the General Council of the
Churches of God (7th Day), Meridian, ID.
DEFINITION OF SPIRITUAL GIFT
"A spiritual gift is the supernatural empowerment given by
God's Spirit to help the Church carry out its mission in the
world."
Gifts of the Spirit are given to a member of the body of
Christ by the Spirit of God that enables him (or her - Keith
Hunt) to work effectively and with joy in helping the church
carry out its mission in the world. In its widest, deepest sense
it is the call of God coming to an individual in the Body of
Christ singling him (or her - Keith Hunt) out for a particular
ministry and carrying with it the ability to perform that
ministry.
THE BODY OF CHRIST AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS
We must understand the Biblical concept of the organization
of the Body of Christ, because it is intentionally structured
around the concept of SPIRITUAL GIFTS. The major Biblical
passages on spiritual gifts reinforce this conclusion. It cannot
be mere coincidence that in all THREE of the most EXPLICIT
passages on spiritual gifts, Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and
Ephesians 4, the gifts are explained in the CONTEXT of the Body.
"For just as the body is one and has many members, and all
the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with
Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:12).
"For as in one body we have many members, and all the
members do not have the same FUNCTION, so we, though many, are
one body in Christ, and individually members one of another"
(Romans 12:4,5).
"Rather speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in
every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the
whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it
is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily
growth and up-builds itself in love" (Ephesians 4:15,16).
The analogy of the Church as the body of Christ indicates
that spiritual gifts should be viewed in the CONTEXT of the
FUNCTIONAL body. The Church, as a body, has Jesus Christ as its
head. By being PROPERLY RELATED to the head, the rest of the
body functions normally. Without the NORMAL FUNCTIONING of each
part of the body, little growth will be seen. By the same token,
the Church, in order to GROW, must have ALL its members properly
related to its head - Jesus Christ. Each member must be UTILIZING
his (or her - Keith Hunt) SPIRITUAL GIFT and performing their
FUNCTION towards BUILDING UP the body for the purpose of MINISTRY
to the world.
WHO HAS SPIRITUAL GIFTS?
Not EVERYONE has spiritual gifts. Un-believers do not. But
EVERY Christian person who has been baptized in the Holy Spirit
has at LEAST ONE gift, and possibly more.
(Let me add here that all true Christians are baptized in
the Holy Spirit, in one important sense, and that is when they
are brought to repentance and conversion. See my studies on
"baptism" to get the full in-depth meaning of what I have just
said. I think it is true that God gives at least one Spiritual
Gift to those who are truly trying to live by every word of God -
Mat.4:4; and desiring to walk in the way of Christ - 1 John
2:1-6; and doing what Paul said to do, "Let this mind be in you
which was in Christ Jesus" - Phil.2:5. There are so many
"spiritual gifts" - see part four of this series - that I think
it would be very unlikely that a true child of God would not have
at least one of those gifts - Keith Hunt).
........The baptism in the Holy Spirit is an operation of the
Spirit of God DISTINCT and SEPARATE from His working of
REGENERATION...Just as the Spirit's SANCTIFYING work is a
DISTINCT work complementing His regeneration work, so that
baptism in the Spirit complements the regeneration and
sanctifying work of the Spirit......(The author is here stating I
believe that the work of the Holy Spirit giving a spiritual gift
or gifts to an individual can be any time during their Christian
life time. It is a special outpouring of the Spirit imparting to
that individual a gift of the Spirit, for a short or long time,
and for a service work within the Body of Christ to edify the
Body or to reach the world with the Gospel. This action of the
Spirit on the individual's life is then termed "baptism in the
Holy Spirit." For further thoughts on this aspect see the end of
this article under the heading "The Ebb and Flow of Spiritual
Gifts" - Keith Hunt).
........The main result of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a
manifestation of the various gifts of the Spirit.
Other results of a genuine baptism in the Holy Spirit are:
a) enhanced sensitivity to sin that grieves the Holy Spirit, a
greater desire to keep God's commandments and a deeper awareness
of God's judgment against ungodliness; b) a life that brings
glory to God (John 16:13,14; Acts 4:33); c) new visions (Acts
2:17); d) a greater desire to pray (Acts 2:41,42; Romans 8:26);
e) a deeper love and understanding of God's Word (John 16: 13;
Acts 2:42); f) an increasing awareness of God as Father (Acts
1:4; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6).
HOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
STEP 1: We must ACCEPT by FAITH Jesus Christ as LORD and SAVIOR
and TURN from SIN and the world.
"Then Peter said unto them, 'Repent, and be baptized every one of
you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and
you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit' " (Acts 2:38).
This involves surrendering our wills to God. We must turn
from that which offends God before we can be an instrument for
noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master.
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a
vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use,
and prepared unto every goof work" (2 Timothy 2:21).
STEP 2: We must DESIRE to be filled. Christians should have a
deep hunger...."Blessed are they which HUNGER and THIRST
after RIGHTEOUSNESS: for they SHALL be FILLED" (Matthew 5:6).
"For I will pour water upon him that is THIRSTY, and floods
upon the dry ground: I will POUR my SPIRIT upon thy seed, and my
BLESSING upon thine offspring" (Isaiah 44:3).
"If any man THIRST, let him come to me, and DRINK. He that
believes on me, as the Scripture has said, out of his belly SHALL
FLOW rivers of LIVING water" (John 7:37,38).
STEP 3: We often receive this baptism in answer to PRAYER.
"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto
your children: how much MORE shall your heavenly Father give the
Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?" (Luke 11:3).
"These all CONTINUED with one accord in PRAYER and
SUPPLICATION, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and
with his brethren" (Acts 1:14).
STEP 4: We should EXPECT that God will baptize us in the Holy
Spirit.
"Therefore I say unto you, what things soever you desire
when you PRAY, BELIEVE that you receive them, and you shall have
them" (Mark 11:24).
(All Christians at conversion and baptism receive God's Holy
Spirit as the Lord's seed of begettal and so are then begotten as
His child. How much of the Holy Spirit they receive at this time
is based upon a number of factors....their humble repentant
attitude of mind, how much prayer and Bible study they have been
doing, how much fruit of repentance they have already manifested
in their lives, how much they hunger and thirst after
righteousness, how much they desire and want, for the right
reasons, God's Holy Spirit, how much they want to be the clay in
the hands of the Master potter, to live and work for His glory
and to see others come to the saving knowledge that is in Christ
Jesus. There may be other factors also. Every true repentant
person receives some of God's Spirit at conversion and baptism in
water. Paul in one verse called it the "earnest of the Spirit" -
the down payment, of more to come, if that person is workable
clay in the potter's hands. Some at this time, according to the
factors above and to God's will, do receive one or more of the
"spiritual gifts" also. This we can see from certain examples in
the book of Acts. Yet we also know that God can of course, give
one or more of the spiritual gifts to anyone at ANY TIME during
their life's walk with the Father and with Jesus. Under that
situation the four points listed above I believe would play a
very important PART, the bottom line is of course God's WILL as
to WHEN and to WHOM one or more of the spiritual gifts are given
to an individual. At the receiving of a spiritual gift we then
can call it a "baptism in the Holy Spirit" but this must not be
confused or thought of as what many "Pentecostal" churches teach,
that it is accompanied by emotional feelings or a shock wave
hitting the body and then speaking a so-called unknown tongue,
often in an uncontrolled manner. Then on the other hand God can,
if He so chooses, for He is God and can give spiritual gifts
within a congregation where they are more carnal than
spiritual, as He obviously did within the church at Corinth.
There were special needs at Corinth, for the city was a great hub
of trade and commerce, it was a cross roads in the Roman Empire
and many people from all over the Roman world, with different
languages and cultures and customs, and various pagan religions,
would meet there. The church at Corinth had many spiritual gifts,
some were of the more "spectacular" type, as we might think of
them, such as speaking in a language not learnt. They had become
vain in their spiritual gifts and Paul had to correct them
concerning this proudness and concerning how to use gifts of the
Spirit. On the whole they were a group of carnal individuals, way
more carnal than spiritual as Paul pointed out to them in pretty
plain words - see 1 Corinthians 3:1-4. So, we then see that God
can if He wants to and the situation may deem it necessary, give
spiritual gifts to even mainly carnal babes in Christ. Then we
must also note as is the case with the church at Corinth, God
will also have somewhere, a man or men, or a women for that
matter, serving in the work of the Lord, who will be sent or
given the task to CORRECT and GUIDE and TEACH, such a
congregation as that at Corinth, into the correct attitude of
mind and proper use of those spiritual gifts - Keith Hunt).
HOW TO SUSTAIN THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is sustained in the
believer's life by PRAYER, WITNESS, WORSHIP, PRAISE and a
SANCTIFIED life (I would also add, FASTINGS - Keith Hunt).
However powerful the initial coming of the Holy Spirit on
the believer may be, if this does not find expression in a life
of prayer, witness and holiness, the experience will soon
become a FADING glory. (I want to say here that "witnessing" does
not have to be the verbal type, going around talking about the
Lord to every one you meet. If you do this you will soon find
people wanting to stay clear of you or thinking you are some
"religious freak" or fanatic. Witnessing has to be like Jesus
said, "Be as wise as serpents and as harmless as a dove" also "Do
not cast your pearls before swine lest they turn and trample
them" and maybe you also. Witnessing is often most effective by
our LIGHT, the way we live, think, and act towards people. Then
at the right time and in the correct manner we may speak about
the Lord, when we know the person/s will be receptive to
listening. God has a plan of salvation, and as shocking as it is
too many, that plan does not include trying to save the whole
world and people upon it in this age. We are to witness to the
world as a whole, but Jesus and the apostles did NOT try to save
every individual on the earth in their life time. Even today, God
is NOT trying to save every individual on the face of the earth,
if He is trying to do that, then He is not making much headway,
Satan is winning the battle. But there is NO battle between God
and Satan, the Eternal God will save the vast majority of all who
have ever lived on this earth, but He will do it in His time
frame and within His plan of salvation. I have many studies on
this Website that thoroughly explain God's plan of salvation. The
Festivals of the Lord and their meanings are a good place to
start to understand the plan of salvation - Keith Hunt).
The Bible teaches that there may be NEW FILLINGS with the
Holt Sprit after the believer has been baptized in the Spirit
(see Acts 4:31; Ephesians 5:18,19). (Remember we are first
baptized in the Spirit when we receive the first "earnest of the
Spirit" at conversion and water baptism, then at that time or
after that time, we may receive a gift from the Spirit, another
type of baptism with the Holy Spirit, and even later to that we
may have another gift or gifts given to us, another type of
baptism with the Spirit. And so it can go on, as the Lord wills
in giving spiritual gifts to the individual - Keith Hunt).
The baptism in the spirit brings the believer into a
relationship with the Spirit of God that is to be RENEWED and
MAINTAINED.
"And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they
were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy
Spirit, and they spake the Word of God with boldness" (Acts
4:31). (These were the apostles and believers, who had ALREADY
received the Holy Spirit as the nature of God begetting them as
His sons and daughters. But as the CONTEXT shows they wanted to
do a MIGHTY witnessing work for the truth of Jesus' resurrection
just having taken place, and His Messiahship as the Savior of
mankind. I think we can understand their desire at that great
time in the beginning history of the New Testament Church of God,
and what had taken place only a short time before, on the
unforgettable Feast Day of Pentecost. The Church had grown by
leaps and bounds, thousands were still at Jerusalem, after coming
to attend the Pentecost feast. It was indeed a time to have
extra POWER, with SIGNS and MIRACLES, to proclaim the truths of
God. They prayed to the Lord for this extra baptism in the
Spirit, and their prayers were answered in the POSITIVE - God
would indeed give many of them GIFTS of the Spirit to mightily
proclaim the Gospel message - Keith Hunt).
DISCOVERING GIFTS
Spiritual gifts are received by the Spirit of God through
GRACE, and are NOT something WE achieve. God gives the gifts at
His OWN DISCRETION. First Corinthians 12:11 talks about the
Spirit DIVIDING gifts, "to every man severally as HE WILL." Later
in verse 18 the text says that God sets the members in the Body
"as it hath pleased Him."
God has NOT entrusted ANY person to GIVE Spiritual Gifts. No
pastor, no seminary president, NO ONE is QUALIFIED to DISPENSE
spiritual gifts.
Furthermore, no one WORKS real hard and then is rewarded
with a gift.
They are gifts of GRACE, and as such, they EMERGE FROM God
with NO reference to the degree of MERIT or sanctification that
the recipient may have attained.
The fact is that they can be given by the baptism in the
holy Spirit to a brand NEW born-again (begotten again - Keith
Hunt) Christian even before he (or she - Keith Hunt) has had time
to MATURE in the Body of Christ (Yes, I covered this statement of
the author in more detail about - Keith Hunt).
THE EBB AND FLOW OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
1. The use of spiritual gifts diminishes when the role of the
laity is reduced.
2. The lack of Biblical teaching in the middle ages resulted in a
failure to either understand or use spiritual gifts.
3. Fanaticism and emotional display in the use of spiritual gifts
has often been associated with false doctrine and cults and has
discouraged churches in identifying with the need and use of
spiritual gifts.
4. When the role of the clergy develops into performing the
ministry described by the spiritual gifts, the use of those gifts
diminishes; so does the desire to use them on the part of the
laity.
5. The understanding and use of spiritual gifts will thrive under
the encouragement and teaching of church leaders. The
responsibility rests upon their shoulders.
6. The exalting of certain gifts over others tends to diminish
the importance and use of other gifts and leads to pride and a
lack of balance in the ministry of the local church.
Hocking, "The World's Greatest Church" (Long Beach: Sounds of
Grace Ministries)
..............................
TO BE CONTINUED
Master List of Spiritual GiftsMost of them as in the NT ChurchWe continue and end here with the articles that were published in
the November 2002 ACTS magazine, from the General Council of
the Churches of God (7th Day), Meridian, ID.
The New Testament contains numerous passages which relate to
the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. The following pages contain a
master list of Spiritual Gifts and suggested definitions. This
list is not meant to limit God's Spirit to only these gifts, but
represents those that are clearly presented in Scripture. While
not meant to be dogmatic or final, these definitions and
supporting Scriptures do correspond to the characteristics of
each gift.
PROPHECY
The gift of prophecy is the special ability that God gives
to certain members of the body of Christ to receive and
communicate an immediate message of God to His people
through a divine-anointed utterance. 1 Corinthians 12:10,28;
Romans 12:6; Ephesians 4:11; Acts 15:32; Acts 21:9-11; Luke 7:26.
PASTOR
The gift of pastor is the special ability that God gives to
certain members of the body of Christ to assume a long-term
personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of
believers. Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; John 10:1-18; 1 Peter
5:1-3.
TEACHING
The gift of teaching is the special ability that God gives
to certain members of the body of Christ to communicate
information relevant to the health and ministry of the body
and its members in such a way that others will learn. 1
Corinthians 12:28; Romans 12:7; Ephesians 4:11-14; Acts 18:24-28;
Acts 20:20-21.
WISDOM
The gift of wisdom is the special ability that God gives to
certain members of the body of Christ to know the mind of the
Holy Spirit in such a way to receive insight into how given
knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the
body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:8; Acts 6:3,10; 2 Peter 3:15; 1
Corinthians 2:1-13; James 1:5-6.
KNOWLEDGE
The gift of knowledge is the special ability that God gives
to certain members of the body of Christ to discover, accumulate,
analyze and clarify information and ideas which are pertinent to
the growth and well-being of the body. 1 Corinthians 12:8; Acts
5:1-11; 2 Corinthians 2:14; Colossians 2:2-3.
EXHORTATION
The gift of exhortation is the special ability that God
gives to certain members of the body of Christ to minister words
of comfort, consolation, encouragement and counsel to other
members of the body in such a way that they feel helped and
healed. Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 4:13; Hebrews 10:25; Acts 14:22.
DISCERNING OF SPIRITS
The gift of discerning of spirits is the special ability God
has given to certain members of the body of Christ to know with
assurance whether certain behavior purported to be of God is in
reality divine, human or Satanic. 1 Corinthians 12:10; Acts
16:16-18; 1 John 4:1-6.
GIVING
The gift of giving is the special ability that God gives to
certain members of the body of Christ to contribute their
material resources to the work of the Lord with liberality
and cheerfulness. Romans 12: 8; 2 Corinthians 8: 1-7; 2
Corinthians 9:2, 6-8.
HELPS
The gift of helps is the special ability that God gives to
certain members of the body of Christ to invest the talents they
have in the life and ministry of other members of the body, thus
enabling them to increase the effectiveness of their own
spiritual gifts. 1 Corinthians 12:28; Romans 16:1-2; Acts 9:36.
MERCY
The gift of mercy is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to feel genuine empathy and
compassion for individuals, both Christian and non-Christian, who
suffer distressing physical, mental or emotional problems, and to
translate that compassion into cheerfully-done deeds which
reflect Christ's love and alleviate suffering. Romans 12:8; Acts
16: 33-34; Luke 10:33-35; Mark 9:41.
MISSIONARY
The gift of missionary is the special ability God has given
to certain members of the body of Christ to minister whatever
other spiritual gifts they have in another culture. 1 Corinthians
9:19-23; Acts 22:21; Acts 13:2,3; Acts 8:4; Romans 10:15.
EVANGELIST
The gift of evangelist is the special ability God has given
to certain members of the body of Christ to share the Gospel with
unbelievers in such a way that men and women become Jesus'
disciples and responsible members of the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4:11; Acts 8:5-6; Acts 26:40; 2 Timothy 4:5; Acts 21:8;
Acts 14:21.
HOSPITALITY
The gift of hospitality is the special ability God has given
certain members of the body of Christ to provide open house and
warm welcome for those in need of food and lodging. Romans
12:9-13; Hebrews 13:1-2; Acts 16:15; Romans 16:23.
FAITH
The gift of faith is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to discern with
extraordinary confidence the will and purpose of God for the
future of His work. 1 Corinthians 12:9; Acts 27:21-25; Acts
22:22-24; Romans 4:18-21; Hebrews 11.
LEADERSHIP
The gift of leadership is the special ability that God has
given to certain members of the body of Christ to set goals in
accordance with God's purpose for the future and to
communicate these goals to others in such a way that they
voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those
goals for the glory of God. Romans 12:8; Acts 15:7-11;
Acts 7:10; Hebrews 13:17.
ADMINISTRATION
The gift of administration is the special ability God has
given to certain member of the body of Christ to understand
clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit
of the body of Christ and to advise and execute effective plans
for the accomplishment of those goals. 1 Corinthians 12:28; Acts
27:11; Acts 6:1-7.
MIRACLES
The gift of miracles is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to serve as human
intermediaries through whom it pleases God to perform powerful
acts that are perceived by observers to have altered the ordinary
course of nature. 1 Corinthians 12:10,28; Acts 19:11-20; Romans
15:18-19; Acts 9:36-42.
HEALING
The gift of healing is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to serve as human
intermediaries through whom it pleases God to cure illness and
restore health apart from the use of natural means. 1 Corinthians
12:9,28; Acts 3:1-10; Acts 5:12-16; Acts 9:32-35.
TONGUES
The gift of tongues is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ (a) to speak to God in a
language they have never learned and/or (b) to receive and
communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a
divinely-anointed utterance in a language they have never
learned. 1 Corinthians 12:10,28; 1 Corinthians 14:13-19; Acts
19:1-7; Acts 10:44-46.
INTERPRETATION
The gift of interpretation is the special ability God has
given to certain members of the body of Christ to make known in
the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues. 1
Corinthians 12:10,30; 1 Corinthians 14:13,26-28.
APOSTLE
The gift of apostle is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to assume and exercise
general leadership over a number of churches with an
extraordinary authority in spiritual matters which is
spontaneously recognized and appreciated by those churches. 1
Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11; 2 Corinthians 12:12;
Ephesians 3:1-9.
CELIBACY
The gift of celibacy is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to remain single and enjoy
it; to be unmarried and not to suffer undue sexual temptations.
1 Corinthians 7:7-8; Matthew 19:10-12
INTERCESSION
The gift of intercession is the ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to pray for extended
periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and
specific answers to their prayers to a degree much greater than
that which is expected of the average Christian. James 5:14-16;
1 Timothy 2:1-2; Colossians 1:9-12
MARTYRDOM
The gift of martyrdom is the special ability God has given
to certain members of the body of Christ to undergo suffering for
the faith even to the point of death, while consistently
displaying a joyous and victorious attitude which brings glory to
God. 1 Corinthians 13:3; Acts 7:54-60; Acts 12:1-5; Acts 8:1-4.
SERVICE
The gift of service is the special ability God has given to
certain members of the body of Christ to identify the un-met
needs involved in a task related to God's work, and to make use
of available resources to meet those needs and help accomplish
the desired goals. Romans 12:7; Acts 6:1-7; 2 Timothy 1:16-18.
............................
All studies by Keith Hunt or studies on this Website may be
copied, published, emailed, and distributed as led by the Spirit.
Mr. Hunt trusts nothing will be changed except for spelling and
punctuation errors.
It is with thanks to Acts publication that I was able to bring
you these articles of study on Spiritual Gifts. Acts magazine is
free to all who request it from:
ACTS, The Church of God Publishing House, 1827 W. 3rd Street,
Meridian, Idaho 83642-1653, USA.
STUDIES ON THE FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT #1That which comes with having the Spirit by
The Church of God 7th Day, Denver, CO, USA
BIBLE STUDIES for Adults (USPS 474-540) is published quarterly by
the Bible Advocate Press, 330 West 152nd Avenue, Broomfield, CO
80020, U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Broomfield, CO.
Copyright 2002 by the General Conference of the Church of God
(Seventh Day).
Notice: When a change of address is desired, please send both old
and new addresses. Send orders, correspondence, and address
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FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION
Galatians 5:22,23 is the only text that lists in a group the nine
virtues comprising the fruit of the Spirit. These virtues are the
focus of this series. Every believer receives the Holy Spirit,
the provider of the fruit of the Spirit. Thus, believers must
learn how the Holy Spirit benefits them and helps them become
more Christlike through the godly characteristics He supplies.
Much of Paul's letter to the Galatians is devoted to countering
the influence of Judaizers who were convincing Christians in the
Galatian churches that they must first become Jewish proselytes
and submit to the Mosaic law before they could become Christians.
Paul sternly warned these churches, which he had raised up during
his first missionary journey, that by accepting the teaching that
justification came by observing the law, they were abandoning
Jesus Christ. He emphasized that justification by faith -
believing in Jesus' sacrifice as the redemption for our sins - is
an essential doctrine of the gospel (I have fully expounded on
this subject in my commentary on the book of Galatians on this
Website - Keith Hunt).
Paul stressed that being liberated from the curse of the law does
not give Christians license to sin. On the contrary, with the
Holy Spirit's help, Christians obey God's commandments more
effectively. Instead of being burdened by the requirements of
law, they serve God and humanity with love, joy, and peace in
their hearts, because Christ paid the penalty for their sins and
provided an indwelling Helper.
One other important matter that will be studied in these lessons
relates to the fruit of the Spirit and walking in the Spirit.
Paul taught that those who walk in the Spirit do not fulfil the
lusts of the flesh. They do not allow the sinful desires of human
nature to control their lives. Galatians 5:19-21 lists many works
of the flesh that draw people into a sinful lifestyle and
separation from God.
We pray that these lessons will encourage you in your
determination to walk in the Spirit. New Christians receive the
Holy Spirit, but they must team to submit to the Spirit's leading
and teaching to grow in their Christlike character. Becoming
mature in Christ is a lifelong process. As long as we live in our
human bodies, we will also contend with our human nature, which
makes walking in the Spirit extremely important. The Spirit helps
us gain victory over wrongful desires. However, complete victory
will not be gained until we're transformed into an incorruptible
body when Christ returns.
Order a new Bible Advocate Press booklet, A Study of the Holy
Spirit, to learn more about the Holy Spirit.
LESSON 1
THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22,23).
PRESENTATION: We are given the Holy Spirit as an indescribable
bonus when we receive God's gift of salvation through believing
in Jesus Christ and accepting His sacrifice on the cross for our
sins. When Jesus left this earth to return to the Father, He
promised the disciples that He would send the Holy Spirit to take
His place in their lives: "I tell you the truth. It is to your
advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper
will not come to you; but if 1 depart, I will send Him to you"
(John 16:7).
Jesus emphasized the Spirit's life-giving power (John 7:37-39),
His indwelling presence (14:16,17), His teaching ministry
(v.26), and His empowering for witnessing (15:26). To help us do
the Father's will, the indwelling Spirit represents the Father
and Jesus Christ.
The Holy Spirit also gives spiritual gifts to believers. These
are listed in Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11,28; and
Ephesians 4:11. Some gifts may be enjoyed privately but most are
given to minister in behalf of Jesus Christ and to equip
individuals to serve one another and build up the church body.
Spiritual gifts are essential in making a church strong so it can
serve Christ and humanity effectively.(The subject of the GIFTS
of the Spirit is given in-depth on this Website under the title
of "Gifts of the Spirit") - Keith Hunt).
But even more importantly, the fruit of the Spirit is made
available to every believer. Galatians 5:22 and 23 lists the nine
virtues included in the fruit of the Spirit, the foundational
qualities of a Christlike life. A person cannot live a Christian
life without the presence and help of the Holy Spirit. The
spiritual fruit will not be fully evident immediately after
conversion. It must be developed as a believer matures in Christ,
because a new Christian's submission to the Spirit is limited.
Growth is necessary to become more completely yielded.
Each virtue in the fruit of the Spirit is important, so in this
series a separate lesson is devoted to each. Because the virtues
are closely related, some biblical texts will appear in several
lessons. Therefore, as you study these lessons, always look for
the subject under consideration when you read the supporting
texts.
SCRIPTURE Galatians 5:16-25
OBJECTIVES: to help students understand the benefits received
from the indwelling Holy Spirit and recognize the significant
differences between spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit.
DIFFERENT WORDS, Similar Meaning
Various translations of the Bible use different words with
similar meanings for some of the virtues listed in the fruit of
the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23). In the list below, the word in
the New King James Version is shown first, then the variations in
the King James Version, the New International Version, and the
New American Standard Bible, if they are different.
longsuffering: patience (NIV, NASB)
kindness: gentleness (KJV)
faithfulness: faith (KJV)
gentleness: meekness (KJV)
self-control: temperance (KJV)
EXPLORING:
1. What are the spiritual gifts, and why are they given?
1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28; Ephesians 4:11-13.
2a. What are the elements of the fruit of the Spirit? Galatians
5:22, 23.
b. How are the fruit and the gifts of the Spirit different?
3. The new Corinthian Christians are examples of new believers
who received the Holy Spirit and possessed spiritual gifts, but
were not mature in their walk with Christ. What kinds of immature
behavior were they guilty of? 1 Corinthians 1:11,12; 3:1-4.
a. Why would God allow immature Christians to possess spiritual
gifts?
b. What are the dangers in immature Christians possessing
spiritual gifts?
4. What benefits can a body of believers experience when the
members have the fruit of the Spirit? Compare Galatians 5:22,23
with Colossians 3:12-17.
5a. Why is a person who is guided by the Spirit not under the
law? Galatians 5:16,18,22-25.
b. How is justification by faith confirmed by the Spirit, while
an attempt to be justified by the law is associated with the
flesh? Galatians 2:15,16; 3:2,3; 5:4-6.
RESPONDING:
1. Match these two columns by writing the letters from the right
column in the blanks of the corresponding statements in the left
column.
A. given even to immature persons A. fruit of the Holy Spirit
B. Against such there is no law. B. gifts of the Holy Spirit
C. used to serve the church C. works of the flesh
D. help the Christian in his/her Christian walk
E. found in Galatians 5:22,23
F. found in 1 Corinthians 12
G. found in Galatians 5:19-21
2. Have you confused the gifts and the fruit of the Spirit? What
makes you think you understand the difference now?
3. In your opinion, which is more important in your life for your
personal benefit: spiritual gifts or the fruit of the Spirit?
4. How important do you feel it is for your local church members
to understand the difference and significance of both (the gifts
and the fruit of the Spirit) so your congregation can minister
effectively within the church and in the community?
CLOSING:
Consider the tremendous benefits the Lord has bestowed on us.
When we respond to His call, He gives us salvation. This comes
through our faith in His Son, who forgives us of our sins. To
teach and guide us, Jesus then sends us the Holy Spirit in His
place. With the help of the Spirit, using His gifts, we can
demonstrate God's characteristics and serve effectively, pointing
others to Jesus. How truly awesome is our Lord!
LESSON 2
LOVE
Through lone serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in
one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as
yourself" (Galatians 5:13c,14).
PRESENTATION:
The word love in Galatians 5:22 is translated from the Greek word
'agape,' represented in the Scriptures as an attribute of God and
as a Christian virtue. Divine love is God's highest
characteristic; the Bible says "God is love" (1 John 4:8). All of
His other attributes harmonize perfectly with this attribute.
God's gracious love for humanity is strongly expressed in both
the Old and New Testaments. The dearest declaration and strongest
proof of His love is His redemption of humanity by giving His
only Son, who willingly died for our sins: "For God so loved the
world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes
in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16;
cf. Romans 5:8; 8:32-39; 1 John 4:9,10). The word so emphasizes
the intensity of God's love.
God has shown that we belong to Him by graciously implanting His
love in us: "The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by
the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:5). Love is the
first named virtue in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,
23) because it is the preeminent virtue and because the others
closely relate to it. Love creates the strongest bond between
friends and brethren and may exert the greatest influence on
adversaries. Jesus said we should love our enemies and do good to
those who hate us (Matthew 5:43-48).
When Jesus was asked which is the great commandment in the law,
He answered, "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your
heart, with all your soul; and with all your mind.' This is the
first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You
shall love your neighbor as yourself"' (Matthew 22:37-39). Our
love for God should not be based on all He has done for us and
given us, but we should love Him because we adore Him for who He
is.
Divine love is such an important topic, and the Scriptures teach
so much about it, that several lessons could be devoted to the
subject. However, in this series the discussion of love is
limited to this lesson.
WHAT KIND OF LOVE IS THIS?
"Love" is a very confusing concept these days. People use the
word "love" describe very different relationships: people "love"
their dog ... a certain type of car. .. a brand of pizza ... a
sexually intimate partner ... another person for whom they have
deep feelings. What can "love" possibly mean if it applies
equally well to dogs, machines, food, sex, or close companions?
The Bible is not confused or vague about the powerful concept it
calls love. Greek, the international language of Jesus' day and
the language in which the New Testament was written, had four
distinct words for love, each with its own shade of meaning:
(1) 'Eros' denoted the relationship between male and female,
including physical desire, craving, and longing. That word for
love is not used in the New Testament.
(2) 'Stergos' described affection and was applied especially to
the mutual love between family members. It is not used in the New
Testament either.
(3) 'Philos' reflected the care and concern that friends have for
each other, what we would call brotherly love. Peter spoke of
this kind of love when he and Jesus discussed his future task of
serving others (John 21:15-17).
(4) 'Agape' described a unique type of supreme love involving a
conscious and deliberate choice to do good for another, a
commitment based on the willful choice of the lover, not the
qualities of the person receiving love. Agape love is perhaps
best seen in God's love for the world (John 3:16) and in the love
that God calls believers to display (1 Cor.13:1-13).
When Jesus recalled the greatest of the commandments, both of
which had to do with love (Matt.22:34-40), He was calling for
Agape love, a sustained and conscious choice to graciously serve
God, neighbor, and self, expecting nothing in return. Followers
of Christ learn this kind of love as God loves them first. He
then commands us to live in the same way toward others (1 John
3:11-24). God's love empowers us to love by choice rather than
just emotion or senses, and to sustain our love even in the face
of hostility or rejection.
God wants to deliver a new kind of love - agape love -to
families, workplaces, and communities through His people. Who
around you needs that kind of intentional touch of compassion and
grace?
-From "The Word In Life" Study Bible, copyright 1993, 1996 by
Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission.
EXPLORING:
1. What does the Bible say about Who is the source of divine love
for Christians? 1 John 4:7,8,16.
2. What does the Bible say about the heavenly Father's love for
His Son, Jesus Christ? Matthew 3:17; 12:18; 17:5; John 5:20;
10:17,18.
3. How has God shown His love for sinful humanity? John 3:16;
Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9,10. How did Jesus show His love for
humanity? John 15:13; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:2.
4. What does the Bible say about the Father's and Christ's love
for us now as members of God's family? Ephesians 1:3,4; 5:25;
6:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:13,16,17; Titus 3:4-6; James 1:12; 1 John
2:5; 3:1; 4:12.
5. With the ultimate example of love set by the heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ, and having received the Holy Spirit and God's
divine love - the foremost virtue - we must consider how love
should motivate us.
a. How should we respond to God? Psalm 18:1-3a; 31:23a; 116:1,2;
Matthew 22:37-40.
b. How should we show our love for Jesus Christ? John 14:15,21,
23; 1 Peter 1:8; 1 John 5:1-3.
c. Discuss commands by Jesus and God to love our fellow
believers. See John 13:34,35; 15:12,17; 1 John 3:11,23; 4:21; 2
John 5,6.
NOTE:
Many more such commands are delivered by Paul, Peter, and other
New Testament writers.
d. In what ways are we told to love one another? Matthew 25:34-
40; Romans 12:9,10; 14:1,13-17; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7,13;
Philippians 2:2-4.
RESPONDING:
1. Jesus said the two greatest commandments are to love God and
love our neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). Is it possible to do one
without the other?
2. Talk about the different words for love in the Greek language,
described in above. Wouldn't it be great to have similar
distinctions for love in the English language?
CLOSING:
Love begins with God and comes from Him because He is the essence
of love. God loved sinful humanity so much that He sent His only
Son, whom He loved deeply, to pay the penalty for our sins with
His own life. Jesus demonstrated love beyond our comprehension by
willingly taking our place on the cross. With such demonstrations
to back up Their teaching to love one another - even providing
the Holy Spirit to be our helper - how can we fail to do Their
will?
..................
TO BE CONTINUED
Studies on the Fruits of the Spirit #2They come with having the Spirit
CONTINUED - PART TWO
by
The Church of God 7th Day, Denver, CO, USA
LESSON 3
JOY
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in
believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy
Spirit (Romans 15:13).
PRESENTATION:
Joy is a feeling of happiness, ranging from gladness to great
delight or exultation. It can also refer to whatever brings about
the feeling of happiness. Contentment, satisfaction, and triumph
may express various degrees of joy, depending on circumstances.
In a secular sense, people may find joy in their accomplishments,
work, family, association with others, etc. Doing good deeds may
result in peace or serenity of conscience - a kind of moral joy.
This lesson is about spiritual joy, part of the fruit of the
Spirit (Galatians 5:22).
Joy is mentioned many times in the Old Testament. Those who were
faithful to the Lord found joy in serving Him. When the people
came together to sincerely observe the Lord's feast days, they
were joyful in celebrating God's goodness and remembering all His
benefits. The book of Psalms, Israel's worship guide and hymn
book, contained much exhortation to rejoice and be joyful. But in
Old Testament times most people did not have an abiding joy
because they didn't have the Holy Spirit abiding within them
continually.
Numerous texts also point out that the Israelites did not
experience joy because of their disobedience to the Lord.
Joy is elevated to a new height and emphasis in the New
Joy in the Bible Often Relates to Jesus
In several texts people expressed joy because of Jesus:
Zachariah 9:9 - The Lord called people to rejoice about the
coming Messiah.
Luke 2:10 - Angels announced tidings of great joy to the
shepherds.
Matthew 2:10 - The wise men from the East rejoiced with exceeding
joy.
John 3:29 - John the Baptist said his joy was fulfilled because
of the bridegroom (Jesus).
John 17:13 - Jesus prayed that His joy would be fulfilled in His
disciples.
Matthew 28:8 - The ladies left the empty tomb with great joy
after the angels told them Jesus had risen.
Some expressed joy because of salvation through Jesus:
Acts 8:8 - People responded joyfully because of the gospel and
healing.
Acts 15:3 - Brethren rejoiced to hear of the conversion of the
Gentiles.
2 Corinthians 8:2 - The brethren in Macedonia experienced
abundant joy, though in serious poverty.
Joy is elevated to a new height and emphasis in the New Testament
because it relates mostly to Jesus Christ. Great joy erupted when
He came as a babe in Bethlehem, when He healed people through His
ministry, when He rose from the grave as the risen Savior, and
when people converted to the gospel and received the Holy Spirit
through the apostles' and disciples' preaching.
Christian joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22;
Romans 14:17). It increases when we fellowship with the community
of believers and rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15; 1
Corinthians 12:26; 2 Corinthians 2:3). Sinners experience joy
when they repent and receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
(Acts 16:3034).
Living a Christian life is not easy; believers often face serious
difficulties. In past centuries vast numbers of Christians were
tortured and killed because of their steadfast commitment to
Christ. Even in some countries today many are dying for their
faith. James 1:2-4 and 1 Peter 4:12,13 admonish us to consider it
joy to suffer for Christ's sake, because such experiences help us
grow stronger in our relationship with Christ. Joy does not
result from suffering but remains in the believer despite
suffering. With the Holy Spirit's presence, Christians are
content with God and themselves no matter what difficulties they
face. Spirit-produced joy is not based on circumstances but on
the Christian's encounter and daily walk with Christ.
EXPLORING:
1. Luke's Gospel contains many expressions of joy and praise to
God. Match the statements (from the New King James Version) in
the right column with the correct scriptural references in the
left column. (All texts are in Luke.) Briefly discuss why joy is
mentioned in each text.
LUKE
a. 1:14 i. "Then the seventy returned with joy .."
b. 1:44 ii. "there is joy in the presence of the angels.."
c. 2:10 iii. "you will have joy ... at his birth."
d. 6:23 iv. "returned to Jerusalem with great joy.."
e. 10:17 v. "the babe leaped in my womb for joy."
f. 15:7 vi. "they still did not believe for joy,and marvelled"
g. 15:10 vii. "I bring you good tidings of great joy.."
h. 24:41 viii."Rejoice in that day and leap for joy!"
i. 24:52 ix. "joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.."
2. Talk about the Source who provides believers with spiritual
joy.
a. In Acts 2:25-28 Peter quoted a well-known passage from one of
David's psalms (16:8-11). Who did David say brought him joy?
b. What did the "gospel prophet" say brings joy? Isaiah 12:3.
What are the "wells of salvation"?
c. How is the Holy Spirit involved with joy manifested in the
lives of believers? Galatians 5:22.
3. Who did Paul claim as his joy? Philippians 4:1.
4. What does the Bible say about the endurance of joy? Isaiah
35:10; John 16:22.
RESPONDING:
1. The kingdom (sovereignty or rule) of God will be perceived by
all when Jesus comes again, but it can be perceived by Christians
now.
a. What three elements can help Christians today realize the
reigning presence of God through the work of the Holy Spirit?
Romans 14:17.
b. How can these virtues guide Christians into service? Romans
14:18a 19.
2. Jesus counselled His disciples regarding how they can remain
in His joy, that their joy might be full (John 15:11). Discuss
the responsibility this places on us.
a. Jesus is the true vine, and active believers are the
fruit-bearing branches. How does this translate into our
relationship with Jesus and His abiding joy? John 15:1-8.
b. Following Jesus' example of His relationship with the Father,
how can we abide in Jesus' love? Verses 9,10.
3. Read and discuss Philippians 2:12-18.
a. What does Paul say about obedience and God's work within us?
Verses 2:12,13.
b. What actions hinder joy in a person's life? Verse 14. Have
these affected your personal life?
c. What benefits can be reaped by living godly lives rewarded
with joy? Verses 15-18.
CLOSING:
Christians are not immune from suffering for Christ's sake, but
such suffering can deepen our joy. Therefore, let us continue in
the joy we found in Christ, celebrate it in our daily walk with
Him, cherish our fellowship with other disciples, and hope in
Jesus' second coming. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to cultivate
His fruit in our lives in unending joy.
LESSON 4
PEACE
Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you were
called in one body; and be thankful (Colossians 3:15).
PRESENTATION:
The Old Testament Hebrew word for peace (shalom) means
"completeness." - "soundness," and "well-being." Shalom is used
in praying for the welfare of another, expressing harmony with
another, or seeking the good of a city or country. It may imply
material prosperity, physical safety. or spiritual well-being.
The Greek word for peace (eirene) is prominent in New Testament
writings. It carries the meaning of shalom but nearly always has
a spiritual connotation.
Peace is a gift from God. Spiritual peace, in particular, is made
available to those who believe in Jesus sacrifice as an atonement
for their sins and profess Him as Lord. It becomes a constant
resident in the hearts and minds of believers as part of the
fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). The peace of God is
mentioned often in the salutations and benedictions of the
Pauline and General Epistles.
Though we Christians have not fully achieved the perfect peace
God wants for us, through faith we have experienced it. And we
long for the eternal peace Jesus will usher in when He comes
back.
Names and Terms Associated with Peace
By its association in the New Testament writings, peace is an
essential spiritual element in the lives of believers. Consider
the following:
"the God of peace" - Romans 15:33; 16:20; Philippians 4:9;
1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:20.
"peace from God" - Romans 1:7 and in the salutation of most of
Paul's epistles.
Paul and other writers also pronounced peace upon their readers
in several of their benedictions.
The whole concept of peace as a fruit of the Spirit can be
perceived in the person and deeds of Jesus of Nazareth, who
embodied the gospel (Acts 10:34-43). He is our shalom (peace) who
reconciles us to God (Romans 5:1-11); who helps us understand
that He does not show favoritism among persons (Acts 10:34-36);
who makes one body (house, temple, people, nation) from ancient
foes, Jews and Gentiles; and who removes any alienation between
people of different races (Ephesians 2:14-22). As a result,
"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free,
there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ
Jesus" (Galatians 3:28).
EXPLORING:
1. God's Word proclaims Jesus Christ as the basic source for
spiritual peace for God's people in this age and beyond.
a. Consider Isaiah's prophecies about the peace that would come
through the Messiah. See Isaiah 9:6,7; 52:7; 53:5.
b. Discuss the angel's announcement to the shepherds in Luke
2:13,14 about the Savior's birth in Bethlehem.
2. How was the peace Jesus gave His disciples different from the
peace people receive from the world? John 14:27; 16:33.
3. How can sinners establish peace with God? Romans 5:1,2. How
were Jews and Gentiles able to come to peaceful terms with each
other after centuries of hatred? Ephesians 2:14,15.
4. What should be our attitude and constant lifestyle to maintain
the peace Jesus promised His disciples? Philippians 4:6-9.
RESPONDING:
1. How does the Hebrew term 'shalom' help us understand spiritual
peace?
2. How did Jesus and His ministry bring peace? Acts 10:36,43.
3. What elements were (and are) contrary to peace in the gospel
ministry?
4. How can we overcome our obstacles to peace? Romans 5:1,2.
5. How has salvation brought peace to you?
CLOSING:
Let's live with the blessing in this text: "Now may the God of
peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great
Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting
covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will,
working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus
Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen" (Hebrews 13:20,
21).
LESSON 5
PATIENCE (Longsuffering)
For whatever things were written before were written for our
learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the
Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4).
PRESENTATION:
Patience is "1. the state, quality, ability, or fact of being
patient: specifically, a) the will or ability to wait or endure
without complaint. b) steadfastness, endurance, or perseverance
in performing a task. Patience implies the bearing of suffering,
prov - cation, delay, tediousness, etc., with calmness and
self-control" (Webster's New World Dictionary).
As the dictionary says, patience involves waiting with hope, like
the farmer who plants seed and then waits, expecting to reap in
the future (James 5:7,8). His waiting shows patience as he
carries out his work from year to year.
For examples of patience, James reminds us of the prophets and
Job (James 5:10,11). We read of Jobs trials and perseverance and
about his reward after suffering. However even if he had not been
rewarded in this life, Job had hope in the future (Job 19:25,
26).
A preacher confessed to his congregation, "How foolish of me! I
recognized that I did not have enough patience, so I prayed for
it. Guess how the Lord answered? He put me through trials and
tribulations. I should have remembered the apostle Paul said that
'tribulation worketh patience' (Romans 5:3, KJV)." Patience is
not a virtue learned in a vacuum but in real-life situations -
trials and tribulations. Though it is a fruit of the Spirit, it
must mature through exercise. Patience is often developed through
sickness, stress, or interpersonal relationships, such as
conflicts with a spouse, relative, friend, or employer. We need
to remember the command to be patient with all people
(1 Thessalonians 5:14), including those who make our lives
miserable.
Our God is Patient
Have you ever doubted God's patience (longsuffering) toward us?
For instance, meditate on these texts:
Numbers 14:18: "The LORD is longsuffering and abundant in mercy,
forgiving iniquity and transgression; but He by no means clears
the guilty...."
Psalm 78:38: "But He, being full of compassion, forgave their
iniquity, and did not destroy them. Yes, many a time He turned
His anger away, and did not stir up all His wrath." (This
describes God's patience with Israel during their years in the
wilderness.)
Psalm 86:15: "But You, 0 Lord, are a God full of compassion, and
gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth."
Romans 2:4: "Or do you despise the riches of His goodness,
forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of
God leads you to repentance?"
2 Peter 3:9: "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as
some count, slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not
willing that any should perish but that all should come to
repentance."
There is another aspect of patience the dictionary doesn't
mention. It is exemplified in God and could be called spiritual
patience - or patience rooted in love. It makes sense, then, that
longsuffering (patience) is the first description of love in
1 Corinthians 13:4. Several descriptions in this chapter of what
love is and does, indicate the close relationship between love
and patience. Some of the things said about love could be said
about patience as well: it "is kind; ... does not parade itself"
(v.4); "does not behave rudely ... is not provoked" (v.5); "bears
all things ... hopes all things, endures all things" (v.7).
To develop patience, then, we must surrender to the Lord in all
situations, waiting with hope and expectation. We must be sure
our love is patient. Because patience is a fruit of the Spirit,
the Holy Spirit within us will not fail us in exercising it.
EXPLORING:
1. Read the context of the verses quoted in the sidebar, then
discuss God's example of patience expressed in these verses.
2. The exhortation to be patient (longsuffering) is usually
accompanied by other godly characteristics essential to
Christlike living. Read and discuss how patience relates to the
other characteristics in these texts: Romans 12:9-13; Ephesians
4:1,2; Colossians 3:12,13; 1 Thessalonians 5:14.
3. How should patience relate to our long-term goal? Hebrews
12:1; James 5:7,8.
4. Whom does James mention as examples of men who exercised
patience in their suffering? James 5:9-11. How has knowing about
Job's suffering and patience helped believers throughout the
ages?
RESPONSE:
1.
a. Why is patience required for those who believe Jesus is coming
again? James 5:7,8.
b. In what way have you been waiting and hoping with patience?
How does the illustration of the farmer who plants and waits for
the crop edify you and help you to be patient?
2.
a. How is patience toward others demonstrated?
b. Why is it easier to be more patient with certain people than
with others?
c. How does the command to be patient with everyone eliminate
discrimination in displaying patience or impatience?
3. Cite your or someone else's experience of patiently
persevering through suffering.
a. What are some reasons for experiencing "patient endurance" or
"impatient endurance"?
b. How has suffering helped you learn to practice patience?
CLOSING:
God is not slack in His promise to provide salvation for us; He
is patiently waiting for sinners to respond. Likewise, we must
not be slack in serving Christ by doing God's work. The Word
says, "Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily
ensnares us, and let us run with endurance [patience] the race
that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1).
................
TO BE CONTINUED
Studies in the Fruits of the Spirit - Part threeThree more great Fruits by
The Church of God, Seventh Day, Denver, CO, USA
LESSON 6
KINDNESS
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another,
even as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).
PRESENTATION:
What is kindness? If we were to ask several people for a
definition, they might say: "Being friendly, gentle, cordial,
sympathetic, generous, compassionate, mercful, loving." The list
of synonyms could go on. But Jesus points us to our heavenly
Father as the greatest definition of kindness. God's kindness and
esteem for humanity far surpass people's concern for one another.
As His children, we are instructed to imitate Him by being kind
to others through Spirit-filled love. In fact, kindness is one of
the manifestations of love (1 Corinthians 13:4).
In Luke 6:35,36 Jesus admonished His disciples to love their
enemies, to do good, and to be kind and merciful as is their
heavenly Father. Paul said God "is rich in mercy, because of His
great love with which He loved us" (Ephesians 2:4). In the future
God will "show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness
toward us in Christ Jesus" (v.7). We will experience God's love,
mercy, and kindness throughout eternity.
Paul warned the Colossian Christians to put away the old nature,
which is antagonistic toward God and predisposed to evil deeds
(Colossians 3:5-9), and replace it with uplifting Christian
virtues, including kindness (vv.12-14). Among a long list of
Christlike qualities that help God's servants faithfully serve
and endure the hardships of the ministry, Paul included the
virtue of kindness (2 Corinthians 6:4-10).
We must remember that kindness is part of the fruit of the Spirit
(Galatians 5:22). The Spirit helps us be kind, patient, loving,
etc. However, we must submit to the Spirit's guidance for our
lives to bear these fruits, and for us to be God-fearing and
Christlike.
EXPLORING:
1. God and Jesus are our models in all aspects of Christian
living. What kindness did God and Jesus extend to humanity that
benefits all who will accept it through faith? Titus 3:4-7;
Ephesians 2:48.
2. Consider other biblical examples of God's showing kindness to
individuals or multitudes.
a. How was Joseph a beneficiary of God's kindness? Genesis
39:20-23.
b. What does Ezra say about God's mercy extended to a remnant of
the house of Judah? Ezra 9:8,9.
c. What did the prophets say about God's care for Judah and
Israel? Isaiah 54:8-10; Hosea 11:3,4.
3. According to Paul, what characteristics should our lifestyle
include besides kindness? Colossians 3:12-15. How do kindness and
compassion help us practice forgiveness? Verse 13; Ephesians
4:31,32.
4. Why did Jesus teach that love and mercy help us show kindness
toward someone considered an enemy? Luke 6:27,28,35,36.
RESPONDING:
1. a. Relate an experience of kindness you have heard about, or
an experience that you felt demonstrated kindness. What was there
in that person's lifestyle that reflected kindness?
b. How do we perceive kindness in others? Make a list of words
that describe this virtue.
c. Can you recall examples in Scripture of people who were kind?
Consider Joshua 2:1-14; 2 Samuel 9:1-7; Ads 28:1,2.
2. a. Relate a time when you experienced the kindness and
compassion of forgiveness when someone forgave you. Tell about
the kindness and compassion you demonstrated when you forgave
someone (a relative, friend, adversary).
b. If you drew a line on a scale of one to ten, each number
representing a degree or attitude of forgiveness and compassion,
with unforgiving as the lowest and forgiving as the highest,
where would you be on the scale? Why?
(lowest) 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10 (highest)
3. a. What is grace? How is kindness a demonstration of grace?
b. How have you, or have you not, demonstrated kindness through
generosity? If not, what stands in the way? What do you plan to
do about it?
c. In what ways is your church a generously kind congregation? In
what ways could it improve its generous kindness?
4. a. How does kindness help us understand what it means to be
spiritual, a new self in Christ, and a servant of God?
b. How do you and your church compare to the guidelines given in
Ephesians 4:17-32?
CLOSING:
As Christians who are filled with the Holy Spirit, we should be
kind to others as a way of life. Our God-given affection for them
should motivate us to treat everyone fairly, with concern for
their welfare. The Bible is our manual; our heavenly Father and
Christ are our models.
LESSON 7
GOODNESS
Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who
fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His
goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off (Romans 11:22).
PRESENTATION:
The term goodness appears only a few times in the New Testament.
In Galatians 5:22 goodness is identified as a part of the fruit
of the Spirit, and in Ephesians 5:9 (New International Version,
NIV) as a "fruit of the light." (This phrase may be more precise
in the NIV than "fruit of the Spirit" as in other translations.
because the context is speaking of walking in the light.) Godly
light is provided by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Christian
"goodness" is not generated from human motivation, but is a fruit
we exhibit when the Spirit dwells within.
But can human beings truly be good? The question many times
arises while reading Mark 10:17,18 and Luke 18:18,19. In response
to the rich, young ruler, who addressed Him as "Good Teacher,"
Jesus said, "No one is good but One, that is, God" (Mark 10:18).
In saying this, Jesus was not disclaiming His own deity but
pointing out that all humans are sinners (He was also admitting
that He, Jesus was then, God - a part of the Godhead - but not
God the Father - Keith Hunt).
If we understand good as meaning morally perfect (what Jesus was
indicating), then only God is good. However, if we think of good
as trying our best to keep God's commandments, then humans may be
good by human standards, because it is understood that we cannot
keep the commandments perfectly. In Matthew 19:16,17, and 21,
the rich young ruler asked, "Good Teacher, what good thing shall
I do that I may have eternal life?" Jesus responded, "If you want
to enter into life, keep the commandments .... If you want to be
perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you
will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me."
The self-righteous young man did not admit his own failure and
sin. When Jesus tested him further by asking him to sell his
possessions, he failed again by showing that he loved himself and
his possessions more than his neighbors. And he lacked the faith
to surrender his things to follow Jesus. Jesus was not indicating
that keeping the commandments, or even selling all he had to give
to the poor, would gain the young ruler eternal life. Jesus was
pointing out that the young rulers priorities were misplaced.
Jesus' answer to his initial question was "Come, follow Me."
Paul assembled a series of Old Testament quotations (Romans
3:10-18) that verify that humans are incapable of doing good
(v.12b) and being righteous (v.10) by God's standard.
Good identifies a person who is righteous, and to do good means
to do right. According to verse 23, "all have sinned and fall
short of the glory of God" - there is no good (righteousness)
among humanity. In our own human efforts, we fail to achieve
righteousness, according to God's standard of righteousness. But
in and through Jesus Christ we can have God's goodness - that is,
His righteousness - in us (Romans 3:21-26). Though we have
sinned, by faith we are justified by God's grace through the
redemption in Christ Jesus.
EXPLORING:
1. a. What did God say about His own characteristics in Exodus
34:5-7?
b. What do the Scriptures say about God's goodness, in
particular? Psalm 31:19; 33:5; 52:16.
2. How did the rich young ruler and Jesus understand the concept
of doing good? Read the third paragraph of this lesson's
Presentation and Matthew 19:16-21.
3. a. On what basis did Paul tell the Christians in Rome (Romans
15:14) that they were "full of goodness"? Romans 3:21-28.
b. In a Christian aspect, how do the words goodness and
righteousness compare? Read the fourth paragraph of the
Presentation.
RESPONDING:
1. What qualities come to your mind when you think of a good
person?
2. How realistic are your expectations of goodness for yourself?
How do you measure up to them? How does this make you feel?
3. How does the definition of goodness, as commonly understood by
society, compare with the biblical guidelines we studied in this
lesson?
4. Do you know someone, including you, who is motivated to do
good in order to be accepted by others? In what ways is that
scripturally appropriate or inappropriate?
5. Do you believe you have the virtue of goodness as described in
the fruit of the Spirit? Why or why not?
CLOSING:
Let's remember that goodness is part of the fruit of the Spirit;
therefore, it is light in the midst of darkness (Ephesians
5:814). This light is not our own but the radiance that comes
from the One who is the light of the world. He is Jesus Christ,
and it is only through Him that we can be called good, or
righteous. Let's follow His example.
LESSON 8
FAITHFULNESS
His lord said to him, "Well done, good and faithful
servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you
ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord" (Matthew
25:21).
PRESENTATION:
When we speak of a faithful person, we are saying he is
trustworthy, honest, and loyal. Even then we may be inclined to
ask for evidence. Not so with God. If we believe in God, we need
not doubt His faithfulness. Many Bible verses tell about God's
faithfulness. We even have the assurance that His Word is
faithful (Titus 1:9).
A multitude of men and women in the Bible were faithful to God.
Noah is an early example. Though all others gave their lives to
sinful, ungodly living, Noah was devoted to God and had complete
faith in Him as he followed God's instructions to build a huge
boat on dry land.
Abraham is another giant among faithful men. Though he grew up
among pagan people, he heeded God's call to leave his home and
friends and travel many miles to a strange land. Various
obstacles and hardships failed to deter him. When God asked
Abraham to sacrifice Isaac - the son God had promised him in his
old age - he obeyed, believing that God could raise his son
again. When God stopped Abraham from slaying Isaac at the last
instant, God knew that this servant was fully committed to Him.
Sarah also believed in the faithfulness of God, who gave her the
ability to conceive and bear a son in her old age.
Though they were not perfect, these and many others believed in
God's faithfulness and became faithful to Him. They did not have
the powerful Word of God that we have today to fortify our faith
and guide us in daily affairs. Neither did most of them have the
Holy Spirit in their lives continually as we do now. Today the
Spirit dwells within us, providing the influence of the Father
and Son. The fruit of the Spirit, including the virtue of
faithfulness, is a benefit of the indwelling Spirit.
(In the Old Testament some people had the Spirit, but it was
"with" them at times and NOT "in" them as a continuous beggetal,
or as united with the spirit of the mind of man. For it is
written that Jesus was the FIRST begotten of God, the first human
to have the Spirit united with the mind, on and after the day of
Pentecost - Acts 2 - the Spirit came to dwell and unite with all
who believed in Jesus, repented and who were baptized - Keith
Hunt).
Faithfulness toward God is essential in believers' lives for them
to have an intimate relationship with God and Christ. They are
faithful toward us, and they require our faithfulness toward
them. We are faithful when we live a Christlike life that honors
God and serves humanity. The New Testament contains much
instruction on how to live such a life. Thus, we must study the
faithful Word and seek the Spirit's guidance to live a joyful,
fulfilled life.
EXPLORING:
1. Our eternal God is our source and primary example of
faithfulness. Referring to the closing, consider a few of
humanity's benefits from God's faithfulness.
a. What assurance do we have that we can be forgiven and cleansed
of our sins?
b. In our spiritual battle, whom can we count on for help?
c. Should we expect temptations? Whom can we rely on with
complete confidence to provide a way of escape?
d. Discuss ways by which God's faithfulness has been manifested
since creation. List things God has done that are worthy of your
praise.
2. a. How steadfast should our confidence in Jesus Christ be?
Hebrews 10:23.
b. Does our faithlessness affect our Saviors faithfulness?
2 Timothy 2:13.
c. What was required of our Savior to become "a merciful and
faithful High Priest"? Hebrews 2:17.
3. How did Jesus teach His disciples about faithfulness by
speaking to them in a parable? Matthew 25:14-28.
4. What are some of Paul's instructions for behaving as a
responsible, faithful Christian? Romans 12:9-13.
Note: The NIV says "faithful in prayer" in verse 12, while the
NKJV says "continuing steadfastly in prayer." Certainly, prayer
serves as a cornerstone to living a faithful Christian life.
5. What instructions did Paul offer to insure that faithful men
would continue to carry on the gospel work? 2 Timothy 2:2.
RESPONDING:
1. Which men and women in the Bible stand out for you as examples
of faithfulness? Why? Hebrews 11 offers a quick reference for
several.
2. Select a Bible hero who especially was a faithful servant of
God. What does this person offer you in your Christian journey?
3. What is your strategy to be faithful to God?
CLOSING:
Our faithfulness toward God is a top requirement. Our heavenly
Father and Jesus Christ are faithful toward us, and They have
given us the Holy Spirit to help us be faithful to Them. Let's
learn and do what is necessary to fulfill our responsibilities.
Consider Our Source of Faithfulness
Many Bible verses underscore experiences of God's faithfulness to
His people, NeRE are a few.
1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to
forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
1 Corinthians 1:9- "God is faithful, by whom you were called into
the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."
2 Thessalonians 3:3 - "But the Lord is faithful, who will
establish you and guard you from the evil one."
1 Corinthians 10:13 - "No temptation has overtaken you except
such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow
you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the
temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able
to bear it"
Psalm 119:90- "Your faithfulness endures to all generations; You
established the earth, and it abides."
Isaiah 25:1 - "0 LORD, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will
praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things; Your
counsels of old are faithfulness and truth:"
.....................
TO BE CONTINUED
Studies on the Fruits of the Spirit - Part fourGentleness and Self-control From the Church of God, Seventh Day, Denver, CO, USA
LESSON 9
GENTLENESS (Meekness)
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to
be ready to every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be
peaceable, gentle showing all humility to all (Titus 3:1-2).
PRESENTATION:
The Greek word 'praotes' in Galatians 5:23 implies humility and
is translated gentleness in most versions of the Bible and
meekness in others, as part of the ninefold fruit of the Spirit.
These words are closely related: gentleness is expressed in
outward action, while meekness refers to an inward attitude - a
humility or selfless spirit that doesn't try to strive against
God or assert itself against others.
In addressing the rebellious minority in the church at Corinth,
Paul said. "I, Paul, myself am pleading with you by the meekness
and gentleness of Christ ..." (2 Corinthians 10:1). Having shared
the gospel with thousands of people and seriously confronting
some, Paul had learned the importance of using a Christlike
approach with people. The "meekness of Christ" is a humble
attitude that manifests itself in patient endurance while one is
being treated unfairly. A meek person is not bitter or angry; he
does not seek revenge when wronged. "Gentleness in Christ" is
similar. Gentle people in authority tend to be lenient and refuse
to retaliate even when they have the power to do so. They are
gracious toward those who do them wrong.
Some in Corinth mistook Paul's gentleness/meekness - approach as
weakness or even cowardice, accusing him of being bold only in
his writing but not in person. However, Paul could be bold.
Wanting to spare them (v.2), he asked the Corinthians not to
force him to be bold when they would meet with him because, if
necessary, he would be bold in confronting them (cf. vv.10,11).
Though Jesus was kind and gentle, He showed strength and firmness
when the occasion required it. The gentleness/meekness-approach
does not mean "lay down and die."
Perhaps we can better understand gentleness and meekness by
contrasting the terms with negative approaches. For example, in
his first letter to the church in Corinth Paul said, "What do you
want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of
gentleness?" (1 Corinthians 4:21.) Paul admonished the Christians
in Galatia to restore, in a spirit of gentleness, a brother who
had been caught in sin (Galatians 6:1). Not to do so in
gentleness would have been judgmental and disparaging. Jesus
spoke against being judgmental of others' shortcomings while
ignoring our own (Matthew 7:1-5).
Elsewhere in his letters, Paul associated gentleness with
patience, love, and peace (Ephesians 4:1-3). He described these
virtues as part of the spiritual attire we're to put on
(Colossians 3:12,13) and as a manner for teachers to instruct
those who oppose them (2 Timothy 2:24,25). Gentleness and
meekness are an essential part of the fruit of the Spirit.
EXPLORING:
1. a. How would the Messiah come to Jerusalem, according to one
Old Testament prophet? Zechariah 9:9.
b. How was this prophecy fulfilled at Jesus' first coming?
Matthew 21:1-6.
c. How did Jesus describe Himself as He appealed to the people to
come to Him? Matthew 11:28, 29.
d. Did Jesus' lowly, gentle spirit mean He was weak and unable to
confront? Matthew 7:1-5; Mark 3:1-5; Luke 18:9-14; John 8:11.
2. Regarding the rebellious members of the Corinthian church,
what is the meaning in Paul's statement: "I, Paul, myself am
pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ,"
found in 2 Corinthians 10:1?
Note: See paragraphs 2 and 3 of the Presentation for a discussion
about this.
3. Consider the scriptural admonition to be gentle and humble in
various circumstances.
a. What should be our conduct toward those in authority and
people in general who are not believers? Titus 3:1-7.
b. How should we deal with those who would oppose us and dispute
with us because of Christ? 2 Timothy 2:23-26.
c. How should we treat a brother who has become involved in sin?
Galatians 6:1.
d. What influence should these spiritual virtues have on the body
of the church? Ephesians 2:1-8.
4. What did Paul urge Timothy to pursue? 1 Timothy 6:11. What is
the significance for gentleness to be commonly associated with
other virtues? Galatians 5:22, 23.
RESPONDING:
1. How can gentleness/meekness affirm a person's character? Give
examples you have experienced.
2. How is gentleness/meekness easy or difficult for you to
practice?
3. a. What do you think causes people to forget to be gentle/meek
and, instead, lecture and humiliate someone who has done wrong?
b. What can you and your local congregation do to more
effectively incorporate gentleness/meekness in helping someone
who has transgressed God's Word?
c. If you were the one who had done wrong, how would you like to
be treated?
CLOSING:
To be truly gentle and meek Christians, we must have a close
relationship with our ultimate example, our lord Jesus Christ.
This is not accomplished by human effort; the Holy Spirit
empowers us so the fruit of the Spirit will flourish in our
lives. But we must humbly seek the Spirit's help and guidance to
be gentle and meek toward all people with whom we have contact
and fellowship, especially fellow believers.
LESSON 10
SELF-CONTROL(Temperance)
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one
receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And
everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things.
Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an
imperishable crown (1 Corinthians 9:24,25).
PRESENTATION:
The Greek word 'enkrateia,' the ninth virtue in the fruit of the
Spirit (Galatians 5:23), is translated self-control in some
versions of the Bible and temperance in others. Persons with this
virtue have the ability to master their desires and passions.
Self-control appears only a few times in the New Testament.
First Corinthians 9:25 helps us understand the concept of this
virtue. Here Paul says athletes must exercise self-control
(temperance) to qualify for strenuous competition. Two versions
use modern wording to make it easier for us to understand today:
"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training"
(New International Version) and "To win the contest you must deny
yourselves many things" (The Living Bible). The same idea of
running a race is used in Hebrews 12:1; self-control is implied.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
OBJECTIVES:
To learn the meaning of self-control, determine its source, and
study the ways we must exercise it to be unhindered in our walk
with the Lord.
HEALING FOR THE SPIRIT
How can we remove the cancers of our spirit, the aspects of our
character that destroy our integrity? David the psalmist declared
that he would guard his ways "lest I sin with my tongue; I will
restrain my mouth" (Ps.39:1). What a great intention! If only we
could carry it out. Yet the reality is, "no man can tame the
tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison" (James 3:8).
No wonder, then, that as David attempted to restrain himself, he
felt ready to burst - and finally did (Ps.39:1-3). Yet instead of
dumping emotional and spiritual poisons on his enemies, he gained
insight into himself and his condition as a frail human being
(39:4-6). This realism enabled David to cast himself upon God for
help and deliverance from his sinful patterns (39:713).
Perhaps like David you need some new understandings of yourself
in order to diagnose the true condition of your soul. Why not ask
the Lord to perform spiritual healing on you? He alone "forgives
all your iniquities" and heals all your diseases" (103:3).
From "The Word In Life"(TM) Study Bible, copyright 1993, 1996 by
Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission.
Disciplined runners discard any extra weight that hinders them
and persevere by prioritizing their training. Their activities,
diet, physical rest, etc., must all be geared toward preparing to
race. For many centuries athletes who have been serious about
succeeding in their chosen sport have adhered to a strict
routine. Likewise, Christians need to be just as disciplined in
their spiritual race.
For Christians, self-control is not a way of salvation, but a
result of it. That's why it is listed as a part of the fruit of
the Spirit. In other words, self-control is a result of being
spiritual and not a way of becoming spiritual, as in the eastern
religions. Acquiring spiritual virtues begins with knowing God,
believing in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, confessing our
sins, and receiving the Holy Spirit. Self-control cannot stand by
itself; it must have the support of other spiritual virtues and
the strength of the Holy Spirit.
Self-control comprises thoughts, behavior, and emotions. These
can be detected in the context of 1 Corinthians 7:1-9: Sexual
purity results from self-control in outward behavior, inner
emotions, and thinking. Anger is another area in which Christians
are expected to exercise self-control (Ephesians 4:26). The
questions discuss additional ways in which we must rely on the
Holy Spirit for self-control.
EXPLORING:
1. What is the origin of self-control, along with other Christian
virtues? 2 Peter 1:2-7; Galatians 5:22, 23.
2. In what areas must self-control be effective in a Christian's
life? Consider the respective areas mentioned in the following
texts.
a. Proverbs 16:32; 25:25; 29:11
b. Romans 12:3
c. 1 Corinthians 9:27
3. a. How does the idea of self-control (temperance) become
clearer when it is compared to the discipline practiced by
athletes? Hebrews 12:1.
b. What do disciplined runners do to prepare themselves for the
race and during the race?
c. How are Christians encouraged to be like disciplined runners?
4. What kinds of things must we exert control over because they
would hinder our walk with the Lord? Consider the following
texts.
a. 1 Peter 2:1
b. Psalm 39:1-3
c. Proverbs 23:29-35
d. 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 4
RESPONDING:
1. a. What kind of actions demonstrating self-control have you
admired in other people - either acquaintances or biblical
characters?
b. What kind of self-control have you tried for yourself?
2. a. Can you remember an athletic person in your life whom you
admired or who was admired by some of your friends? How did you
feel about this person? Why?
b. How do you feel about the self-control exercised by athletes?
c. How do you feel about well disciplined Christians?
d. How do you see yourself in relation to self-control? What
obstacles did you have to overcome?
3. a. Over which of the three areas (behavior, thoughts,
feelings) do you feel are most difficult for people to exercise
self-control?
b. Which of the three areas are most difficult for you? Why? What
do you do to overcome them? What helps you to exercise
self-control?
CLOSING:
The Holy Spirit gives us self-control so we can be masters over
our desires and passions. In spiritual warfare we are constantly
bombarded with temptations to do things contrary to God's will.
But, praise the Lord!, the Holy Spirit has empowered us to defuse
the temptations by controlling our desires.
Lesson 11
CRUCIFY THE WORKS OF THE FLESH
And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its
passions and desires (Galatians 5:24).
PRESENTATION:
When Paul wrote about crucifying the flesh with its passions and
desires, he was not talking about killing our physical body. The
body was created a neutral, natural entity. The context in which
Paul uses flesh in Galatians 5:13,16, and 17 is the sinful
inclination of fallen humanity. In a person's unredeemed status,
the mind, will, and emotions are all subject to sin. As humans,
we all inherited the inclination to sin from our first parents,
Adam and Eve.
Only God is able to change a person's bent to sin, referred to as
the "lust of the flesh" in several scriptures. Through His
unfathomable saving grace, God gave His only Son, Jesus Christ,
to pay the penalty for our sin and set us free from slavery to
sin. Jesus gave us liberty: freedom from sin, from the law, as a
means of salvation, and from the law's ceremonial regulations as
a burdensome lifestyle. But Paul warned to not use this freedom
as a license to sin - not to allow lustful desires to reenter our
lives.
What are the "works of the flesh" we are to crucify? Paul speaks
of such elements in several passages (Galatians 5:19-21a; 1
Corinthians 6:9,10; Colossians 3:5-9). Flesh as used in these
texts clearly refers to our sinful nature and not to our physical
body, which in itself is neither sinful nor holy. The body's
sinfulness or holiness is determined by whether we yield to
lustful desires of the flesh or to the Holy Spirit. Certain
desires are appropriate if we use them properly, but they become
sinful if we abuse them. For example, ambition to serve the Lord
is appropriate, but selfish ambition leads to sin. Also, our
sexuality in itself is natural and neutral, but when allowed, the
sinful nature misguides it. In this case, we do not crucify our
sexuality but our sexual lust (fleshly desire, or inclination to
sin)...
Therefore, we must be careful to understand what the Bible says
about the flesh, so we don't assume all references to flesh mean
the sinful nature. Let's not think negatively of the beauty of
the human body, which is God's creation...
WHAT DOES FLESH MEAN?
The word flesh has several different meanings in the Bible. Eight
categories are listed here with scriptures related to each.
the human body: 2 Corinthians 7:5 (KJV); 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John
4:2, 3; 2 John 7
people: Matthew 24:22; Romans 3:20
descendant of a particular family, nationality, or designation:
Acts 2:30; Romans 9:3,5; 11:14; 1 Corinthians 10:18; Ephesians
2:11
union in marriage: Matthew 19:5,6; 1 Corinthians 6:16 (analogy to
illicit relationship); Ephesians 5:31
the flesh of living creatures: 1 Corinthians 15:39
the body as distinguished from the spirit: John 6:52;
1 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 4:11; 7:1; Colossians 2:5
this world's qualities: 2 Corinthians 1:12; 10:4 (NASB)
human nature, inclined to sin: Romans 8:3-6, 13; Galatians 5:16;
Ephesians 2:3; Colossians 2:18; 1 Peter 2:11
EXPLORING:
1. Refer to the ABOVE to briefly discuss the different meanings
of flesh as it is used in the Scriptures.
2. What does flesh mean in Galatians 5:17: "The flesh lusts
against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these
are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things
that you wish"? Compare with Romans 7:18; 8:5.
3. a. What are the works (including passions and desires) of the
flesh that we need to crucify to live for Christ in the Spirit?
1 Corinthians 6:9,10; Galatians 5:19-21; Colossians 3:5-9.
b. Which of these acts are prohibited in the Ten Commandments
(Exodus 20:3-17), either by name or implication?
4. a. Some claim that Christians have reached a state of
perfection and they no longer have to worry about the works of
the flesh. What does Scripture teach regarding this? 1 Peter 5:8,
9; Romans 7:21-25.
b. Is Colossians 3:5-12 addressed to believers or non-believers?
What part of the text helped you to arrive at your
interpretation?
c. What does John say about the importance of recognizing our
sins? 1 John 1:8-2:10. What is the first step an alcoholic, or
anyone with an addiction, has to take before starting the process
of recovery?
5. How can we live a victorious life over fleshly lusts?
Galatians 2:20; 5:16.
RESPONDING:
1. a. Pretend the list of works of the flesh is a check list for
your personal review. Are you finding weak points in your life?
b. How may Christians benefit by reviewing this list?
c. How does one go about crucifying such acts? Try to be
specific, instead of philosophical.
d. PERSONAL. On one side of a card write a list of the main works
of the flesh that hinder you. On the other side write, "I
acknowledge my weakness, but I can overcome all things through
Jesus Christ." Keep this with you. When you are tempted to
perform such acts, read the list and then read the statement on
the other side. Trust God to help you, and ask for the Holy
Spirit's strength and guidance.
2. "Those who deny their shadows only project their evil onto
others and see it in them. Those who repress their shadows to
maintain their purity and innocence are sometimes overcome by
them and swept away in their very own evil." William A. Miller,
Make Friends with Your Shadow (Minneapolis: Augsburg Publishing
House, 1981, p.12).
a. Is there a "shadow" haunting you that appears on the list of
the works of the flesh? How does this quote address you?
b. How does this quote make sense for you? How do you feel about
it?
CLOSING:
Though we have become new creatures in Christ by asking Him to
become our Lord and Savior, we will struggle with our carnal
nature for the rest of this life. Satan cunningly tries to stir
up old passions, tempting us to commit evil deeds, so we must be
alert. The Holy Spirit is our constant companion to help us
overcome the sinful habits of the flesh.
.................
TO BE CONTINUED
Studies on Fruits of the Spirit - Part fiveThe Final Touch Belonging to Christ - Walk in the Spirit
LESSON 12
BELONGING TO CHRIST WITHOUT CONCEIT
Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one
another (Galatians 5:26)
PRESENTATION:
Throughout this series we have been studying and exploring the
fruit of the Spirit and applying lessons from it. We have also
analyzed deeds and attitudes that are contrary to the Spirit. We
must be careful not to fall into traps similar to those some
religious people fell into during Jesus' and Paul's ministries.
Such things happen when we focus on our own works instead of
concentrating on what God has done, is doing, and will continue
to do for us.
The good works we do result from our standing with God; they do
not establish our good standing with Him (Ephesians 2:10;
Philippians 2:13).
The Pharisees, "the separated ones," criticized Jesus for
associating with sinners (Luke 15:1,2). These religious people
were bigots who took offense when they saw Jesus keeping company
with sinners. They also boasted of, and trusted in, their
religious accomplishments and looked down on others because they
had confidence in their own righteous works.
The classical case in point is the parable of the Pharisee and
tax collector who were praying at the temple (Luke 18:9-14).
Jesus spoke this parable "to some who trusted in themselves that
they were righteous, and despised others" (v.9).
Paul often cautioned those who trusted in their righteousness
instead of trusting in God's work in them. Ephesians 2:8,9 is
another classic text: "For by grace you have been saved through
faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of
works, lest anyone should boast." How much better to trust in the
work God has done for us, receive His gift of salvation, and
boast in His righteousness rather than in our own.
In the previous lesson, we learned how we are to crucify the
works of the flesh listed in Galatians 5:19-21. Trusting in our
"righteous" works and believing they will earn our salvation
makes them works of the flesh also. Our confidence needs to be
placed in God's work, not in ours. God's work is in the death and
resurrection of Jesus Christ - the basis of our salvation. Paul
told the Philippians that he gave up everything to trust in
Christ (Philippians 3:7-11).
Paul often faced opposition from Judaizers (false teachers
advocating salvation by works of the law) and believers who were
jealous of his work. He recognized that he had done much for the
Lord, and he appreciated his relationship with Him. But Paul
credited his accomplishments to God's grace and not to his own
efforts (1 Corinthians 15:10). Trusting in our work estranges us
from Christ and causes our fall from grace (Galatians 5:4,5).
Paul's opponents wanted the Galatians to be circumcised so they
could boast of such works (Galatians 6:12,13). Paul responded by
saying, "God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of
our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to
me, and I to the world" (v.14).
EXPLORING:
1a.What fleshly weakness did Paul warn about that was not
discussed with the works of the flesh in the last lesson?
Galatians 5:26-6:4.
b. Why may it be difficult for a person with a superior attitude
to restore someone involved in sin? 6:1,2.
c. What can happen to a Christian who feels he is a notch better
than others and fails to be on guard? Verses 1,3.
d. How is the importance of humility reinforced in Romans 12:3?
2. What does Paul say about those who commend themselves and
compare themselves among themselves? 2 Corinthians 10:12. Whose
commendation should we seek? Verses 17,18.
3. What does the Bible say about worldly wisdom as a possible
benefit to gaining salvation? 1 Corinthians 1:26-31.
4. The Scriptures emphasize that believers are saved by God's
grace.
a. How do good works relate to God's grace? Ephesians 2:4-10.
b. What did Paul mean by the statement, "work out your own
salvation" in Philippians 2:12,13? Did this leave room to boast
about one's efforts?
5. Read and evaluate Luke 18:9-14.
a. Why did Jesus say the man who acknowledged he was a sinner was
justified - and not the ultra religious person who was proud of
his deeds?
b. What is God's feeling toward pride? Proverbs 8:13; 16:5,18;
21:4?
6. Why did Paul find it necessary to boast, though it was against
his humble judgment? 2 Corinthians 10:7,8; 11:1,2,5,6,16-21;
12:11-13.
RESPONDING:
1a.How do you feel when people boast of their accomplishments?
b. How do you feel when people accuse you of conceit?
2. Which attitude, the Pharisee's or the tax-collector's, seems
to be most common today? Why?
3. How have you felt when compelled to describe your
accomplishments?
CLOSING:
We thank God that we belong to Him. However, we acknowledge that
we belong to Him, not because of what we have done, but because
of His grace. We join the apostle Paul in saying, "By God's
grace, we are what we are" (1 Corinthians 15:10a). May the Lord
free us of conceit, of judging ourselves better than others, so
we can boast only in the cross of Jesus.
LESSON 13
WALK IN THE SPIRIT
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit
(Galatians 5:25)
PRESENTATION:
The form of the Greek verb translated walk indicates walking in
rank and conforming to virtue. The context of Galatians 5:25
means keeping step in conformity with the Holy Spirit, implying
continuous action in living a virtuous lifestyle. The Holy Spirit
supplies the virtues for a wholesome lifestyle, and He provides
power to live accordingly.
In this series of lessons we have: learned about the meaning and
importance of each virtue contained in the fruit of the Spirit.
All believers have the indwelling Holy Spirit in their lives to
provide strength for living to please God. With the power of the
Spirit within, we can't sit idly by, doing nothing. We are called
to participate: thus the command to walk in the Spirit.
Walking in the Spirit begins with faith and continues in faith
throughout our lifetime. Such a journey involves trusting in
God's work and not in our own. Paul cited Abraham, who was
justified by faith (Romans 4:1-12), as a model of such a
sojourner. Abraham's legacy becomes ours when we walk in the
steps of faith as he did (vv. 11,12). In his walk, Abraham was
completely obedient to God, even to the point of agreeing to
sacrifice his promised son when God tested his degree of
commitment.
In our spiritual walk, we are often enticed by Satan to return to
our former walk with the world. In view of this constant
spiritual warfare, we are commanded to stay on God's spiritual
course. Paul recognized this conflict when he wrote to the
Galatians (5:16,17). Thus, to walk in the Spirit is to pursue the
constant influence and control of the Spirit and not to be
overcome by fleshly desires.
To walk in the Spirit means to be obedient to God's rules. It
means to crucify the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:24,25). We
walk in the Spirit by seeking instruction from God's Word,
pursuing pure lives, dying to self, surrendering to God's will,
and following the Spirit's leading. We will obey God's command to
be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:15,16).
EXPLORING:
1. Walking in the Spirit means conforming to the Holy Spirit.
a. Why is walking in the Spirit essential if we want to live for
God? Galatians 5:16,17.
b. Discuss Paul's description of the struggle between the Spirit
and the flesh in Romans 7:14-24.
c. How does a Christian find victory over the struggle between
the Spirit and flesh, according to Romans 7:25-8:9?
d. Do non-Christians experience the Spirit-flesh conflict? Verses
7,8.
2. Walking in the Spirit suggests progression. What should be our
goals? Philippians 3:12-14.
3. Read and discuss various aspects of our walk with God that
relate to walking in the Spirit.
a. Walk in truth (3 John 3,4).
b. Walk in the light (1 John 1:7).
c. Walk in love and obedience (2 John 6).
d. Walk just as He [Jesus] walked (1 John 2:6).
e. Walk in the name of the Lord our God (Micah 4:5).
4. Briefly talk about a few men the Bible says walked with God.
a. Noah (Genesis 6:9)
b. Abraham (24:40)
c. Isaac (48:15)
d. Levi (Malachi 2:4-6)
e. Hezekiah (Isaiah 38:3)
RESPONDING:
1a.Whose spiritual walk in the Bible stands out to you? Why?
b. How do you plan to chart your spiritual walk?
2a.Who do you think experiences more conflict between the Spirit
and the flesh: young or older Christians? Why?
b. How does your answer apply to your personal stage in life?
3a.What hymns and/or choruses concerning the Christian walk come
to your mind? What significance do they have for you?
b. Do you walk your talk? Why? What are your plans?
CLOSING:
We have learned that walking in harmony with the Holy Spirit is
the only way to honor God and ensure our salvation. The Spirit
endows us with spiritual virtues and strength to be Christlike in
our lifestyle. We are opposed by satanic forces without and human
nature within, but we're empowered to overcome by the Helper that
Jesus Christ promised to all believers. Let us thus walk in the
Spirit until the end of our earthly journey.
..................
THE END
Studies of "The Fruits of the Spirit" were taken from Vol.87,
Number 3, 2002, of the Bible Studies for Adults, by the Church of
God (Seventh Day), P.O.Box 33677. Denver, CO 80233-0677,
U.S.A.Denver, CO, USA.
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