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The Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5. Context: One of Paul’s earliest letters was to what was the central region of modern Turkey. He visited four cities in this region in his missionary journeys and this letter is meant to have been shared among all the churches that looked to him for leadership.
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Context: One of Paul’s earliest letters was to what was the central region of modern Turkey. He visited four cities in this region in his missionary journeys and this letter is meant to have been shared among all the churches that looked to him for leadership.
Agathosune, stemming from one of the most common words in ancient Greek literature (agathos), is again of surprisingly uncommon in occurrence! Something about what the Holy Spirit is working in His people was unique in the world’s experiences.
In a world of competition and self-interest, Agathosune acts out of an uprightness and generosity that can turn the flesh upside-down. Agathosune, in former days, was translated beneficence- akin to charitableness or active mercy.
Paul’s logic here progresses towards an end that readily indicates Christians have norestriction for whom they will bless as the Spirit leads. Agathosune is, when fully developed, even enemy-love.
Agathosune is directly connected to our opportunity for impacting others’ in benefit and well-being as active resistors to evil; it is the service work of the Holy Spirit who encourages us to help where we see need and opportunity in God’s name.