The Fruit of the Spirit: An Introduction

by David Chadwick

The fruit of the Spirit is one of my favorite things to teach. In fact, every time I think about this topic, I immediately flash back to my daughter Bethany’s 6th birthday party. It was a “fruit of the Spirit” themed party. I dressed up as her favorite character called “Sunny Love Tree” and each child who came to the party was given a different fruit of the spirit. That party was one for the books!

Much like I, as a Father, long to see my children walking in the light, Jesus longs to see his followers abiding in him.

A life that displays the fruit of the Spirit is a life that has learned how to abide in Christ. In John 15:7, Jesus said, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Jesus knew that apart from him, his disciples could do nothing (John 15:5).

Notice that none of these fruit are produced through human strength or effort. They don’t come out of your striving. They are the mere byproduct of a life that is fully surrendered and yielded to Jesus. Just as an apple tree doesn't have to work hard to produce apples, a follower of Jesus doesn’t have to work to produce love. It happens naturally as the root is connected to the healthy soil, which, in turn, produces healthy, luscious fruit.

A life rooted in Jesus will produce the fruit of the Spirit.

Finally, notice two things as we commence this study. First, “fruit” in the Greek is karpos - a singular term. ALL nine of these fruit should be evident in the life of a believer in Jesus. You don’t pick and choose which ones you have. Think of it more like a fruit salad than a bunch of individual fruits.

Secondly, take note that it’s only through a connection to the Spirit, Christ in you, the Father upon you - all three persons of the Godhead - that produces this fruit. Faith is the connection point. Not human effort. So, as we walk through the next two weeks together, focus on abiding! If not, this fruit will never appear.

As we examine each fruit, I pray that you will see the face of Jesus in each one. And that he will encounter you with his love and you will become more like him!