Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Galatians 5:22-23 (Fruit of the Spirit)

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Galatians 5:22-23 (Fruit of the Spirit)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Galatians 5:22-23 as a profound expression of the Spirit's work in the life of the believer, which is rooted in God's sovereign grace. This passage is not a mere list of moral attributes for us to achieve by our own strength but is the fruit borne out of the Spirit's effectual work in sanctification. In the context of redemptive history, this fruit is evidence of the New Covenant blessings in Christ, fulfilling the law’s righteous requirements as we are transformed into His likeness. Our reading emphasizes that this fruit flows from the Spirit's indwelling presence, granted by God's unconditional election and effectual calling.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, 'karpos' (fruit) is singular, which underscores the unity and cohesiveness of the Spirit's work in us. The Reformed tradition emphasizes that these are not separate 'fruits' to be individually cultivated but a holistic fruit of sanctification. The Greek term 'pneuma' (Spirit) is crucial, as it highlights the source of this transformative work, which is not human effort but the Spirit's sovereign activity within the elect.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from Arminian readings that might emphasize human cooperation in producing these virtues. Instead, we firmly maintain that the fruit of the Spirit is the result of God's monergistic work in us. Unlike traditions that view these attributes as ethical imperatives that humans must strive to achieve, we see them as evidence of God's transformative power, accomplished through the Spirit's indwelling presence.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should remind our congregation of the assurance found in God's sovereign work in their lives. The presence of this fruit is not a call to self-generated moral improvement but a testament to the Spirit’s active role in sanctification. Pastors should encourage believers to rest in the Spirit's work, trusting that He who began a good work in them will bring it to completion. We emphasize that the Spirit's fruit is not an end in itself but a means to glorify God and reflect Christ to the world, aligning with the chief end of man to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.

Cross-References: John 15:5; Philippians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 8:29

Doctrinal Connections: sanctification; effectual calling; sovereign grace; the perseverance of the saints; the New Covenant