Forbearance | Bible Class on the Works of the Flesh and the Fruit of the Spirit
The next part of the Spirit’s fruit is patience. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Gal 5:22-23).
What does forbearance mean?
Why is forbearance important for the Christian?
Forbearance is used two main ways in the New Testament.
- Forbearance means endurance in the faith. “You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance” (2 Tim 3:10). “We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised” (Heb 6:12).
- Forbearance is used of delaying the avenging of wrongs. “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (Rom 2:4). “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Eph 4:2). “To those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water” (1 Pet 3:20).
In what way does Paul use forbearance as part of the Spirit’s fruit?
Why does the Christian need to endure in the faith?
Why does the Christian need to be patient with others?
How does the Spirit produce patience in our lives?
This Bible class was originally taught by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., at Church of Christ Deer Park in Deer Park, Texas.