All Christians (believers in Jesus Christ) are expected to produce the fruits of righteousness, which includes the fruit of Character. In dealing with character, the bible describes two types of fruit – the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.
1. THE WORKS OF THE FLESH
The works of the flesh are not of Christ. They do not depict Christ or bring honour to God, because they are not rooted in the word of God; rather in our sinful nature. These are not fruits of righteousness and we must be careful to avoid them at all cost.
Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV
“[19] Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, [20] idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, [21] envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Unfortunately, is very common now to see believers confidently demonstrating the works of the flesh. However, the Bible is very clear that these fruits are rooted in sin, and are not of Christ. The Bible has a lot to say about the works of the flesh, and why we should avoid them. The following scripture is very detailed and self explanatory…
Ephesians 4:17-32 NLT
“[17] With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused.
[18] Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him.
[19] They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity.
[20] BUT THAT ISN’T WHAT YOU LEARNED ABOUT CHRIST.
[21] Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him,
[22] throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.
[23] Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.
[24] Put on your new nature, created to be like God-truly righteous and holy.
[25] So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body.
[26] And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
[28] If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.
[29] Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
[30] And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
[31] Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.
[32] Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
As true Christians, the works or fruits of the flesh must not be seen in us, because they do not reflect Christ. We must work hard to get rid of them by choosing to cooperate with the Holy Spirit and living in obedience to the word of God. THE CHOICE IS ALWAYS OURS…!!!
James 3:13-16 NLT
“[13] If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. [14] But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. [15] For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. [16] For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.”
SELAH!!!
For Further Reading: Ephesians 5:3-7; Colossians 3:5-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Fulfilling Our Theme For 2024: “Building The Highway And Lifting The Banner”
“And in that day, there shall be a Root of Jesse, who shall stand as a banner to the people; for the Gentiles shall seek Him…. (therefore) Go through, go through the gates! Prepare the way for the people; build up, build up the highway! Take out the stones, lift up a banner for the peoples!” [Isaiah 11:10, Isaiah 62:10]
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