Characteristics of a Saint
We have all met someone who states they are a believer in Messiah. And since believers make up the Body of Messiah and Yahweh wants saints to come together our first reaction may be to automatically accept this person we just met into our fellowship.
But is this Scriptural? First of all we know that there are many warnings in Scriptures about false disciples teaching false doctrine. For more information on this very important topic, please read “Should you hold fast to the traditions of your religious organization?”. So before accepting a person we just met into our fellowship, we may want to pause and discern whether or not this person is part of the Body of Messiah. Of course, if you meet someone who has just started searching for spiritual truth and is eager to learn Yahweh’s Word, that person should be nurtured.
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Messiah.
Isaiah 29:13 Wherefore the Sovereign said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Messiah. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his (Satan) ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
So based on the Scriptural warnings about false apostles and doctrine, we need to be careful about accepting anyone into our fellowship. That is we must (1) understand their true spiritual beliefs, including whether or not they obeyed Yahweh’s salvation plan and (2) we must discern a persons’ behavior compared to the behavior we should witness in a saint according to the Word. For this article we will focus on the characteristic of a saint. Messiah Himself tells us we shall know true members of the Body of Messiah by their good fruits. Let us investigate.
Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Luke 6:43 For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Matthew 12:33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.
So what are some of the good fruit a true saint should show? A great place to start in the Scriptures is Galatians. The Greek word translated “fruit” in Galatians 5:22 refers to the natural product of a living thing. The Apostle Paul used the word “fruit” to help us understand the product of a Holy Spirit led believer. The Greek word is singular, showing that “fruit” is a unified whole, not an independent characteristic.
The presence of the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives is evidence that our character is becoming more like Messiah. Yahweh’s goal for all His children is for us to be like Him (Romans 8:29). And as we dig deeper into the Fruit of the Spirit, we will find there is a major contrast between the Fruit of the Spirit and the “works of the flesh”.
Galatians 5:22 But the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness (meekness), self-control (temperance). Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Messiah’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. (NKJ)
So if we shall know a saint by his fruit and we have a list of Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians, it makes sense to study each fruit listed to gain a better understanding how a true saint should behave.
The first Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians is love. There is a reason love is listed first. Love obviously belongs at the head of the list. Love is all encompassing and in reality, could include all the other Fruit of the Spirit. And as we read in the New Testament, all of Yahweh’s law and all of the teachings of the prophets culminate in love!
Matthew 22:35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, 36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Yah’shua said unto him, Thou shalt love Yahweh thy Elohim with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Mark 12:28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Yah’shua answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; Yahweh our Elohim is one Yahweh: 30 And thou shalt love Yahweh thy Elohim with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: Yahweh our Elohim is one Yahweh: 5 And thou shalt love Yahweh thy Elohim with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am Yahweh.
It is clear that the most basic standard by which Yahweh expects a saint to live is LOVE. Love Yahweh first, then love our neighbor as ourselves. All of the law and of the prophets culminates in love. Why love? Because Yahweh is love! And if we are trying to become more like Yahweh, we must have love.
1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of Yahweh; and every one that loveth is born of Yahweh, and knoweth Yahweh. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not Yahweh; for Yahweh is love.
And if we don’t have love, Paul clearly writes that we are just a bunch of noise….that we are nothing in His eyes. Even if we speak truth in both the languages of men and angels, even if we understand prophecy, understand all mysteries of the kingdom, and have all knowledge, even if we show incredible faith, and lastly, even if we give to the poor, if we don’t have love the Apostle Paul tells us that all those things profit us nothing!
1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
We can see from the above passage that love encompasses some of the other Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians. In verse four, we see that charity suffereth long, which is long suffering/patience and we also see in the same verse that love is kind, another Fruit of the Spirit. In verse 6 we see that love rejoiceth in the truth and as we study joy, rejoicing in the truth is part of joy. Lastly, we see in verse 7 that love beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things, which is the good fruit of faith.
Getting back to understanding love, the problem with most people is they believe that love is an emotion and possibly go a step further in that love is connected with helping people in need. This is part of love, but not the full comprehension of Yahweh’s love. Scriptural love is dependent on a saint’s behavior, not emotion. Scriptural love is all about obeying Yahweh’s commandments and His commandments include all of His teachings. As the Apostle John wrote in 1 John 3:18, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”
1 John 5:3 For this is the love of Yahweh, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Deuteronomy 10:12 And now, Israel, what doth Yahweh thy Elohim require of thee, but to fear Yahweh thy Elohim, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve Yahweh thy Elohim with all thy heart and with all thy soul, 13 To keep the commandments of Yahweh, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?
1 John 2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of Yahweh perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
John 14:23 Yah’shua answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear Elohim, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
So the number one Fruit of the Spirit is to love Yahweh by keeping His commandments. That is all of His teachings that gives us His boundaries and standards to live by. For more information on this important topic of obeying Yahweh’s commandments and not sinning, please read “How do you know that you are not sinning?”.
And part of loving Yahweh by keeping His commandments includes loving our neighbor as ourselves. And we may ask, who is my neighbor? At a very basic level, it is anyone with whom we come in contact who has basic needs….food, water, shelter, clothing and medical attention. For more information on how to love our neighbors, please read about the good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-37.
Did you know that loving our neighbors includes our enemies? This may sound like a tall order, but this is the will of Yahweh and should be evidenced in a Holy Spirit filled believer.
Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith Yahweh. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Luke 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, 28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
The next Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians is joy. Many equate joy with having fun or experiencing something pleasant. But joy in the Scriptures is a lot deeper than the superficial meaning of joy to the world. Sadly, the world’s joy cannot last because it is based on fleeting, physical circumstances. Real joy is understanding Yahweh’s truths and what He has done for us. Real joy is not conditional on whether or not life is going well for us in a worldly sense. Real joy is a sense of gratitude for all that Yahweh has done for us and the promises He has for His saints. In the Scriptures rejoice means to think or express joy. And joy/rejoice is a very important concept because we find in the New King James version “joy” and its derivates appearing 158 times and “rejoice” and its derivatives appearing 199 times.
John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. 11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Nehemiah 8:10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Sovereign: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of Yahweh is your strength.
1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Yah’shua Messiah from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of Yahweh through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of YahwehShua Messiah: 8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with Yahweh through our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of Yahweh. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
Evidence of real joy is demonstrated in the book of Acts where Paul and Silas are rejoicing while in prison. Real joy includes having joy even when we suffer!
Acts 16:22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. 25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto Yahweh: and the prisoners heard them.
James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Messiah’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
Psalm 59:16 But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.
Philippians 4:10 But I rejoiced in the Sovereign greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Messiah which strengtheneth me.
Peace is the third Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians. And just like joy, peace in the Scriptures has a deeper meaning than the world’s definition of peace. The world doesn’t offer much peace. Just look around. The world cannot give it because the world doesn’t know the One who is peace. But for those who have the Spirit of peace within them, peace is possible no matter our circumstances.
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
We can reject the chaos of the world and embrace Yahweh’s peace. Having the Spirit of peace within us gives us a sense of peace even when we are suffering or surrounded by turmoil. And we know that through tribulation Yahweh is molding us for the Kingdom, which should give us peace during difficult times.
Plus a saint knows that the Prince of Peace is returning to earth to set-up His 1,000-year kingdom where there will be incredible peace (Isaiah 9:6-7). For more information on Messiah’s 1,000-year reign and this incredible period of peace, please read the “Great Reward”.
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in Yahweh alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. Yahweh is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto Yahweh. 7 And the peace of Yahweh, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Messiah YahwehShua. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the Elohim of peace shall be with you.
Romans 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
1 Corinthians 14:33 For Yahweh is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all assemblies of the saints.
Psalm 29:11 Yahweh will give strength unto his people; Yahweh will bless his people with peace.
And not only will saints have peace that surpasses all understanding, we will be peace makers. Therefore, a true saint will seek peace with his brothers and sisters.
Matthew 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of Yahweh.
Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see Yahweh:
1 Peter 3:10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: 11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
The fourth Fruit of the Spirit is longsuffering. The Greek word “makrothumid” translated as longsuffering, is also translated in more modern translations as patience, tolerance, and forbearance. Breaking down the Greek word “makrothumid” we find two root words. First there is the Greek word “makro”, which means large or long. The other root word “thumos” literally means temper. Therefore “makrothumid” means long-tempered, the opposite of short-tempered or having a short fuse.
Just as Messiah is longsuffering/patient towards us, we need to be the same towards others. Our relationship with others should be ”with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2).
2 Peter 3:9 Yahweh is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
Longsuffering/patience is difficult in this fast pace, want it now world we live in. Saints who are longsuffering/patient put up with circumstances and other people, even when severely tried. Holy Spirit given patience allows a saint to endure through anything which life presents. Such steadfast perseverance comes from Messiah, who is our source of strength, “I can do all things through Messiah which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)
Saints exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit of longsuffering/patience understanding that all things work for good to those who love Yahweh and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Even through trials and tribulations, longsuffering/patience enables a saint to walk worthy of his calling. Remember, through our trials and tribulations, Yahweh is molding us for the Kingdom by producing the fruit of longsuffering/patience.
Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with Elohim through our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of Yahweh. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
The next Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5 is kindness. Kindness includes being tenderhearted, patient, merciful and compassionate towards others. American Heritage Dictionary defines kind as (1) of a friendly, generous, or warm-hearted nature (2) showing sympathy or understanding, charitable (3) humane and considerate. Showing kindness includes forgiving others just as Messiah forgave us.
Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as Yahweh for Messiah’s sake hath forgiven you.
Kindness includes a gentle word, a soft answer and a helping hand verses the works of the flesh which can be selfish, impatient, harsh, and rude. And being kind includes being kind to the unthankful and evil, just as our Father in heaven. Therefore a saint’s kindness is unconditional.
Luke 6:35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.
The next Fruit of the Spirit found in a true saint is goodness. Goodness is expressed in the way we act towards others. And the only way to be good towards others is to learn what is good and then do it. We must be doers of the Word not only hearers.
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. 26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before El and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
3 John 1:11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of Yahweh: but he that doeth evil hath not seen Yahweh.
2 Thessalonians 1:11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our Elohim would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12 That the name of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our Elohim and the Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah.
The Holy Scriptures gives us the complete instructions on how to be good, that is how to be righteous. Saints need to hold fast to what is good and seek to do good for all people.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of Yahweh, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of Yahweh may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Psalm 119:172 My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.
A theme of the Fruit of the Spirit is becoming like Yahweh. That is to emulate His character. Over and over in the Scriptures, especially in the Psalms, we see that Yahweh is good. Again it would behoove a saint to understand Yahweh’s instruction in righteousness and then put that understanding into action. That is to do good and be righteous.
Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that Yahweh is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (Also see Psalm 25:8, 73:1, 86.5,100.5, 106.1,107.1,118.1,135.3, and 136.1)
Romans 2:3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of Yahweh? 4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of Yahweh leadeth thee to repentance?
The next Fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness. The Greek word translated as faithfulness in Galatians is also translated as faith in other verses. The various words associated with faith and faithfulness occur well over 300 times in the New Testament, therefore of importance. To be faithful means to be reliable, trustworthy, loyal, devoted and steadfast to our Savior.
Faith involves a genuine belief and commitment to Messiah, which results in an active and productive walk with our Savior. Faith is active and should not be confused with a mental belief without action as we read in the book of James.
James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one Elohim; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
And faithfulness is not conditional based on our circumstances. In fact faith is exemplified when doing Yahweh’s will during very difficult situations. Genuine faith is life changing. Great examples of faith are found in Hebrews chapter 11. I will give you a few examples, but recommend that you read the whole chapter.
Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because Elohim had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased Elohim.
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is Yahweh.
24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; 25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of Yahweh, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; 26 Esteeming the reproach of Messiah greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
Gentleness or meekness in the King James version is the next Fruit of the Spirit. Looking up the Greek word translated gentleness and meekness we find #4236 (from #4235) “praiotes”. Strong’s Concordance defines “praiotes” as gentleness and humility. It is accepting Yahweh’s dealings with us as good. That is accepting Yahweh’s will for our lives and trusting in Yahweh goodness and control over situations. American Heritage Dictionary defines gentle as (1) considerate or kindly in disposition; amiable and tender (2) not harsh or severe; mild and soft. Gentleness or meekness is the opposite to self-assertiveness and self-interest.
Saints should understand that gentleness (meekness) should not be viewed as weakness, but strength under control. And strength under control or gentleness should always be present when interacting with the brotherhood and correcting wrong doctrine.
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Messiah.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
And not only should a true believer show gentleness/meekness to other saints, but should show gentleness/meekness to all men.
2 Timothy 2:24 And the servant of Yahweh must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves;
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, 2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
If a saint wants to be like YahwehShua, then we need to act in a gentle and meek spirit to emulate our Savior! Messiah is our perfect example for gentleness/meekness.
1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Messiah also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
2 Corinthians 10:1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Messiah, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
Why do we want to become like YahwehShua by showing a gentle and meek spirit? Over and over the Scriptures tell us that the meek shall inherit the earth. Selah (i.e. think about it).
Psalm 37:11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Psalm 147:6 Yahweh lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground.
Psalm 149:4 For Yahweh taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.
It is fitting that self-control (temperance) is last on the Fruit of the Spirit list found in the book of Galatians. I believe the reason it is last on the list is the same reason love was first on the list. Self-control is all encompassing if we want to walk in Yahweh’s ways and not in our flesh. Of all the things we have to govern in this live, self is often the biggest challenge. There is a war between the flesh and the Spirit. And until corruption puts on incorruption (1 Corinthians 15:54, 1 John 3:9, and 1 Peter 1:23), we will have to consistently fight our fleshly desire to sin. This is where a saint’s self-control comes into the picture.
Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
2 Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through Yahweh to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of Yahweh, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Messiah;
We have a daily choice to make: to walk by the Spirit or to walk by our carnal nature. We have been given free will to make a choice. The power to rule over our fleshly desires must come from Yahweh through His Spirit. The only way a person can consistently bear good fruit is to have the Holy Spirit dwelling in them. The Holy Spirit gives us the strength to control our sinful desires, that is to say no to our flesh. Self-control gives us the power to say yes to the Spirit and foster a bountiful harvest of good fruits in our lives.
So how does a person receive Yahweh’s Holy Spirit? The apostle Peter laid out the plan of receiving Yahweh’s Holy Spirit in the book of Acts. That plan includes belief, repentance and water and spirit baptism. For more information on this important topic, please read “Salvation Plan”.
Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of YahwehShua Messiah for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as Yahweh our Elohim shall call.
And part of walking in the Spirit must include being able to understand truth. Only with the Holy Spirit dwelling in us will a person be able to understand truth and be able to walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Scriptures tell us over and over that His Spirit will lead us into all truth and righteousness…not man-made religions or their leaders.
1 Corinthians 2:10 But Yahweh hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of Yahweh. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of Yahweh knoweth no man, but the Spirit of Yahweh. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of Yahweh; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of Yahweh. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Spirit teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of Yahweh: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
1 John 2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
John 14:25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, it shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (also see John 16:13-14)
Ephesians 1:17 That the El of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
And not only do we need Yahweh’s Holy Spirit to be able to understand truth and produce good fruit, we need to continue to abide in the truth, obeying Yahweh’s commandments till the end. Because if we don’t, we run the risk of quenching the Holy Spirit within us. For more information on this important topic, please read “Satan’s Great Lie, Once Saved Always Saved”
John 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the unrighteous, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of Yahweh; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
So without the Holy Spirit a person cannot consistently produce good fruit and will consistently walk in their fleshly desires. Scriptures tell us that there is a stark contrast between the Fruit of the Spirit which we just covered and the works of the flesh.
Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (lewdness), 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance (contention), emulations (jealousies), wrath, strife, seditions (dissensions), heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings (carousing), and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of Yahweh.
Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain Elohim in their knowledge, Elohim gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate (strife), deceit, malignity (evil-mindedness); whisperers (slanderers), 30 Backbiters, haters of Yahweh, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable (unforgiving), unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of Yahweh, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Ephesians 5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Messiah and of Yahweh.
Colossians 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence (evil desire), and covetousness, which is idolatry: 6 For which things’ sake the wrath of Yahweh cometh on the children of disobedience:
We have covered the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians. Let us review other Scriptures that expand on the Fruit of the Spirit and the characteristics of a true saint. Another great passage that outlines the Fruit of the Spirit is found in 2 Peter. In this passage we see duplication to the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5 including faith, self-control, long suffering/patience, kindness and love.
2 Peter 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue (i.e. moral excellence/character); and to virtue knowledge (i.e. continue seeking Yahweh’s truth); 6 And to knowledge temperance (i.e. self-control, master of sensual appetite); and to temperance patience (i.e. perseverance/long suffering); and to patience holiness (i.e. piety, conduct pleasing to Yahweh); 7 And to holiness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (i.e. love Yahweh and others). 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: 11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Sovereign and Saviour YahwehShua Messiah.
Additional Fruit of the Spirit found in 2 Peter is knowledge, which includes understanding Yahweh’s true doctrines. A true saint must continue to read, pray, and meditate daily on the Scriptures and become like the Bereans, “in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11) . Saints need to continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of YahwehShua Messiah (2 Peters 3:18).
Lastly, we find two additional good fruit in 2 Peter of virtue and holiness. Virtue has to do with moral excellence and is related to goodness. It is interesting to note that virtue comes after faith in this passage and may be tied to the salvation plan of repentance after a person initially receives faith. That is turning from the old sinful man to a new righteous man. Lastly we find holiness as an additional Fruit of the Spirit in 2 Peter. Holiness is defined as piety or conduct pleasing to Yahweh and is similar to virtue and goodness.
Another passage that lists Fruit of the Spirit is found in Ephesians 5:9.
Ephesians 5:9 (For the Fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth😉
This list not only includes goodness and righteousness (i.e. putting in action Yahweh’s Word), but truth. Truth is related to Scriptural knowledge and very important to Yahweh because He wants His saints to worship Him in Spirit and Truth (John 4:24). Yahweh also tells us in His Word that no lie is of the truth (1 John 2:21). Therefore, a saint who is shown truth versus traditions of men, will always choose truth and put that truth into action.
In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, we also find Fruit of the Spirit tied to the elect of Yahweh. Fruit already covered in this article include kindness, meekness, longsuffering/forbearance, charity/love, and peace.
Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of Yahweh, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Messiah forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of Yahweh rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Additional fruit found in Colossians 3 include “bowels of mercy”, “humbleness of mind”, and “forgiveness”. Let us review. “Bowels of mercies” or “tender mercies” in the New King James is from #3628 “oiktirmus”. This Greek word means to exercise pity, to have sympathy, and to inwardly have compassion. And we know from the sermon on the mount that “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy”
“Humbleness of mind” or humility in the New King James is tied to understanding how insignificant we are and how dependent we are on our Creator. Humility is defined in the American Heritage Dictionary as meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit; not arrogant or prideful.
Lastly, we have the additional fruit of forgiveness. Forgiveness is a what Yahweh expects from His saints. Scriptures are very clear that if we want to be forgiven by our Heavenly Father, we must forgive others. For more information on this very important topic, please read “Do You Want to Be Forgiven?”.
And we also see Fruit of the Spirit in Paul’s letters to Timothy. These Fruit of the Spirit include characteristics already covered in this article….righteousness, holiness, faith, love/charity, patience, meekness and peace.
1 Timothy 6:11 But thou, O man of Yahweh, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, holiness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
2 Timothy 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on Yahweh out of a pure heart.
We dove deeply into the Fruit of the Spirit that should be evidenced in a true saint. So what if you don’t observe many, if not all, of the Fruit of the Spirit in a person who claims to be a believer? Scriptures are clear on this matter and tell us that we should remove ourselves from people who are walking in their fleshly desires and teaching false doctrine. So, not only are we not to accept them into the Body of Messiah, we should not keep company with them. Yahweh is clear that He does not want brothers and sisters in Messiah keeping company with willful sinners.
Titus 3:9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10 A man that is an heretick (i.e. a divisive man) after the first and second admonition reject; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
2 Thessalonians 3:1 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of Yahweh may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith….
6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us….14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
1 Corinthians 5:9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat……..Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
1 Timothy 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Sovereign YahwehShua Messiah, and to the doctrine which is according to righteousness; 4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is righteousness: from such withdraw thyself.
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
We should not keep company with anyone who continuously disobeys the Word of Yahweh and transgresses the Doctrine of Messiah. This may even mean removing oneself from an assembly that does not follow love and the commandments of YahwehShua. And we should never allow someone in our home who tramples the Word of Yahweh.
2 John 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Messiah, hath not Yahweh. He that abideth in the doctrine of Messiah, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him Yahweh speed: 11 For he that biddeth him Yahweh speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
Although believers are not perfect, a true saints’ character should be evidenced for all to see. That is we should bear witness to the good fruit a true saint produces. Love, joy, peace, patience/long-suffering, kindness, goodness/virtue/holiness/righteousness, faithfulness, gentleness/meekness/humbleness, self-control/temperance, knowledge/truth, mercifulness, and forgiveness. Some hundred-fold, some sixty and some thirty. There must be an abundance of fruit in a true saint’s life.
Matthew 13:23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
HalleluYah
(11-19)