When we read John 15:1-17 we find tremendous talk about abiding in Christ. We also find considerable talk about bearing fruit.
Jeremiah 17: 7-8
Ephesians 5: 8-11
Galatians 5: 22-23
The fruits of the spirit begins with goodness which the interpretation is for a person to have a generous and open heart toward his fellow mankind. Galatians 6: 9-10 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers." Bearing Fruit means you are active doing good to others. That means you can't bear the other fruits until you bear goodness. It also means being faithful. It means you are dependable, loyal, and full of trust. It also includes your faith to God. It is a firm devotion to your lifestyle that people can depend on you to carry out responsibilities. A disciple should also be gentle in connection with those first two fruits. This means to be humble, calm, not threatening. Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger. Self Control means to "behave well". Able to restrain one's emotions. Proverbs 25:28 "like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self control. Kindness: to be merciful, sweet, and tender. Discipleship is a hard way to live and is not just about church attendance. It's about giving up your whole self to be like Christ. In such we give up ourselves for the greater good of mankind.
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