Goodness as a fruit of the Spirit isn’t doing random acts of kindness. Nor it is following rules to earn your gold star. Goodness as a fruit of the Spirit is an active pursuit of what is right and holy in both speech and action.
Key Points
- Goodness as a fruit of the Spirit is not doing random acts of kindness.
- Goodness is not following the rules to earn your gold star.
- Goodness is an active pursuit of what is right and holy in both speech and action.
- The way modern society defines goodness is a pale imitation of the fruit of the Spirit.
- Goodness is rooted in this profound shift of understanding what is true and what is a lie.
- Goodness as a fruit of the Spirit is not self-satisfaction, legalism, self-righteousness, and or following a ridiculously low standard.
- Goodness as a fruit of the Spirit acknowledges God is holy, just, and morally perfect. It acknowledges we are sinners who need God’s mercy. Then it commits to living in light of those truths.
- Passage: Ephesians 5:1-12.
- Word: Strong’s G19.
Summary
Goodness Defined:
- Not just about being nice; it is actively pursuing what is right and holy.
- A contrast between good and evil, with goodness seeking alignment with godly principles.
Ephesians 5: Paul’s Argument Against Worldliness:
- Sexual immorality, impurity (uncleanness), and greed (covetousness) should not characterize those who follow Jesus Christ.
- Belief in Gospel leads to distinctive behavior among believers compared to worldly values.
Gratitude vs Worldliness
- Gratitude stems from understanding God’s work in our lives
Living as Children of Light:
- Faith necessarily changes the way we live and the way we speak.
Please listen to the podcast for more detail and explanation.
Next: Fruit of the Spirit: Faith
Previous: Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
Podcast Series Page: Fruit of the Spirit
Photo by Bill Williams on Unsplash
Season 24, episode 08