Fruit of the Spirit: Discerning God’s Expectation in the Local Church is based on the following scriptural text: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Gal. 5:22–23, NIV). Originally, this was my PhD dissertation.

To provide resource materials for pastors and laypersons in sermon and Bible study preparations. My intent is to give a thorough theologically based discussion and understanding of the fruit of the spirit, as defined in Galatians 5:22–23. I will weave together scripture with lively illustrations from personal experiences, selected quotes, and stories. My hope for the reader is to better discern God’s expectation of these fruit in your life and in the local church.