Yielding Fruit

Galatians 5:16-26 (NIV)

16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

I. Introduction:

II. Escape the Strain of Conflict

a. Two Desires: A Dilemma

b. Zero Power: A Failure

c. One Solution: A Promise

III. Recognize the Danger of Sin

a. Recognize The Obvious Symptoms

b. Hear the Repeated Warning

c. Avoid The Great Tragedy

IV. Demonstrate the Fruit of the Spirit

a. Put to Death the Sinful Nature

b. Live Life by the Spirit

c. Display Fruit From the Spirit