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One of the subjects Paul discussed in his letter to the churches of Galatia was a comparison of living with our “sinful self” and living “by the Spirit.” If a person lives out selfish desires, the ultimate result is a sinful life. Sin is the fruit. In contrast, when Christians allow the Holy Spirit to control their lives, they will do the good things that please the Holy Spirit and God. This kind of life is the fruit of the Spirit.

Bible verses used in this episode:

• Galatians 5:16-26
• Galatians 5:22-23
• Luke 6:43-45
• Matthew 7:15-20
• Matthew 12:30-37

Outline:

1. Two choices. Who will lead? (Galatians 5:16-18)
2. Choice One: Self in Control (Galatians 5:19-21)
3. Choice Two: The Spirit in Control (Galatians 5:22-26)

Tips for teaching children:

• Consider what words need defining in this Scripture.  Be more general with younger children. Be ready to answer older children's questions, particularly about the sins listed.  In all cases, be appropriate to the age of the child.
• Eat fruit as you talk about the Fruit of the Spirit
• Sing the Fruit of the Spirit Song

Tips for teaching adults:

• Invite class discussion to help participants better understand the implications of a Spirit-led life. Discussion starters might be as follows:
  • Firstly, imagine a world where everyone lives according to the sins listed in Galatians 5:19-21. Then compare that with a life guided by the Spirit as found in Galatians 5:22-23. 
  • How might each world play out to its logical conclusion?  Where would living out the desires of the flesh lead?  What kind of family, neighbourhood, community and nation would result from this?  
• Create a chart listing the fruit of the Spirit and provide each participant with a copy.  Encourage them to keep a tally over the next 2-3 weeks.  They can place a tick or check mark on the chart each time they witness other Christians displaying the fruit.  For example, if they see someone hold the door open for someone else to pass through first – they could tick off “love” and “patience.”  Compare results.  Spend time in prayer to thank God for these displays of the Spirit.

Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:

Bible Lesson:  The Fruit of the Spirit 

Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

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