International Christian Fellowship

Group Bible Discussion

March 31, 2007

The Holy Spirit

Study 2- Fruit of The Spirit

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)

Key Reference: Galatians 5:16-26

Introduction: Galatians 5:22 starts with the word "But". This signifies an antithesis or contrast of what had been said earlier in the preceding verses. Verse 16 through 21 are listings of the works of the flesh. The contrast to these is the fruit of the Spirit described in verses 22 and 23, something to be cherished and desired. Notice also that the word "Fruit" as used in verses 22 and 23 is a collective noun. This implies that the "Fruit of the Spirit" is not complete if any portion of it is missing. In the following discussion, we shall prayerfully look at the components of the Fruit and how we can be so submissive to the Holy Spirit that He will be able to manifest Himself through us for His fruit to be seen in its entirety.

Main Discussion:

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit is Love ...(Gal.5:22)

  1. What is the characteristic of this Love? (1 Peter 1:22,23)
  2. How important is Love in the life of a Christian?

    3. (Mark 12:31; 1 John 4:8; 1 Cor.13:13)

  3. What are the outward signs that we love God?

    4. (John 14:21; 1 John 5:3; 1 John 4:20)

  4. Why must we Love God, the brethren, and our neighbour?

    5. (1 John 4:7-11,20-21)

  5. What is the effect of perfect love on the one that loves?

    6. (1 John 4:17,18; 1 Cor.13:13)

  6. What other problems can be solved when there is love?

    7. (1 Cor. 13:5-8)

  7. How does one acquire this Agape love? (Gal.5:22, Rom.5:5)
  8. How can a Christian continue in Love? (Gal.5:16-25)

The next component of the Fruit of The Holy Spirit is Joy.

  1. Who gives real Joy? (Gal.5:22, Isaiah 65:11,13-14)
  2. Why must we always rejoice in The Lord? (Lk.10:20)
  3. How can our joy be full? (John 15:11; 16:24; John 10:10)