FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

Dallas Willard (1935-2013) professor and author wrote:
‘The Fruit of the Spirit in Our Lives’

“Outwardly, life in the Spirit manifests itself in two ways. Gifts of the Spirit will enable us to perform some specific function—such as service or healing or leading worship—with effects clearly beyond those of our own making. These gifts serve God’s purposes among His people, but they do not necessarily signify the state of our heart.

The fruit of the Spirit, in contrast, gives a sure sign of transformed character. When our deepest attitudes and dispositions are those of Jesus, it is because we have learned to let the Spirit foster his life in us. Paul confessed, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:19–20). The outcome of Christ living within us through the Spirit is fruit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22–23).

This clear distinction of Gift of the Spirit and Fruit of the Spirit is one that must be made and understood. It is simply this: a gift without character only impresses the person with the gift. A gift formed with Fruit of the Spirit character impresses the Father.

“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” Jesus