The fruit of the Spirit: a teaching on Galatians 5:22-23
Fruit does not appear overnight. A mango tree takes years to bear, and even then it needs water, sunlight and time. When the apostle Paul wanted to describe the character God produces in believers, he chose the image of fruit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23, KJV).
Works of the flesh and the fruit
Paul wrote to churches in Galatia that were being told to keep parts of the Jewish law to be truly accepted by God. He insisted that believers are set free in Christ, but warned them not to use freedom as an excuse for selfishness. Before the fruit, Paul lists the works of the flesh, including hatred, strife, jealousy, wrath, envy and drunkenness. These, he says, come naturally from the sinful nature.
Paul writes “fruit”, not “fruits”. The nine qualities are one harvest, growing together in a life led by the Spirit.
The nine qualities and walking in the Spirit
The first three describe a believer’s relationship with God and the inner life: love for God and others, joy that does not depend on circumstances, and peace with God. These describe how believers treat others: patience with difficult people, kindness and generous goodness. The last three describe personal character: faithfulness and reliability, humble gentleness, and self-control.
Fruit grows from a living connection to the tree. Jesus said, “I am the vine, ye are the branches.” Believers cultivate the fruit by staying close to Christ. Paul urges, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” This means daily choices to follow the Spirit’s leading.
Testing the fruit and growth
Jesus said, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Gifts and talents can impress, but character reveals true spiritual health. Believers may see some fruit grow quickly and others slowly. Patience with oneself is part of the process. Which part of the fruit of the Spirit do you most want to see grow in your life this year?
No farmer can force a mango to ripen. Paul’s list is a reminder that the Christian character God wants is grown slowly, by staying connected to the vine.
