Basic TrainingBible MinistriesGene CunninghamBasic Training Bible Ministries KBKnowledge Base

What is the true test of spirituality?

The true test of spirituality is the fruit of the Spirit — 'love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control' (Gal. 5:22–23). These nine qualities compose one 'fruit'; together they describe the expression of the character of Christ. The believer living by the river is like the fruit tree Jeremiah describes, and the fruit he will not cease to yield is the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Notice this is one fruit, singular, produced like grapes on a single cluster. As in the physical realm, fruit-bearing takes time: young believers filled by the Spirit show the first signs of fruit, and as they keep walking in the Spirit the maturing fruit becomes the evidence of their growth.

Also asked: what are the characteristics of a person who is living spiritually?
Also asked, more loosely
is living by the Holy Spirit the only way to bear spiritual fruit? · how do you know if someone is truly spiritual?

Source: The Basics The Basics — Peace (canonical doctrine) · Read this lesson in the book →

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Lesson 1–3: The Provision—The Cross

Lesson 4–3: Testing—Temptation

Lesson 5–3: The Attack—Satan’s Strategy

Lesson 3–3: The Promise—Spirituality

Lesson 5–1: The Enemy—Satan

Lesson 4–4: Proving—Faith-Rest

Lesson 4–1: Perspective—Grace

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