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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comRobertson Word Pictures - Galatians 5:22 - 5:22
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
The fruit of the Spirit (ho karpos tou pneumatos). Paul changes the figure from works (erga) in Gal 5:19 to fruit as the normal out-cropping of the Holy Spirit in us. It is a beautiful tree of fruit that Paul pictures here with nine luscious fruits on it:
Love (agapē). Late, almost Biblical word. First as in 1Co 13:1-13, which see for discussion as superior to philia and erōs.
Joy (chara). Old word. See note on 1Th 1:6.
Peace (eirēnē). See note on 1Th 1:1.
Long-suffering (makrothumia). See 2Co 6:6.
Kindness (chrēstotēs). See 2Co 6:6.
Goodness (agathōsunē). See note on 2Th 1:11.
Faithfulness (pistis). Same word as “faith.” See Mat 23:23; 1Co 13:7, 1Co 13:13.
Meekness (prautēs). See 1Co 4:21; note on 2Co 10:1.
Temperance (egkrateia). See Act 24:25. Old word from egkratēs, one holding control or holding in. In N.T. only in these passages and 2Pe 1:6. Paul has a better list than the four cardinal virtues of the Stoics (temperance, prudence, fortitude, justice), though they are included with better notes struck. Temperance is alike, but kindness is better than justice, long-suffering than fortitude, love than prudence.