Temperance.
To be temperate in our whole life is truly exemplary. In all the things God has given us for use we are to be temperate; in eating, drinking, sleeping, laboring, be temperate.
These are the fruits of the Spirit, against which there is no law. Bear them in profusion and there will be no law against you in that final day. Amen.
Fruits Of The Flesh.
Since we have given an exposition of the fruits of a Christian, which have their origin in heaven, as expressed by the apostle, we deem it necessary to set before the reader in a true Bible light the fruits of the flesh, which have their origin in an evil [pg 110] nature. While we are aware that many are deceived as to their spiritual condition, as saith the Scriptures, yet none need to be. The Word of God so carefully enumerates the fruits of a Christian heart and the fruits of an evil heart, that all may know by impartial examination what manner of tree they are. “The tree is known by his fruits.” “Know thyself.” “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulation, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revelings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” Gal. 5:19-21.
1. Adultery and fornication. “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Mat. 5:28. “Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.” Luke 16:18. This is clear and plain language and all can understand it without comment.
2. Uncleanness. This may include filthy habits, but especially impure thoughts and conversation, unholy practises and desires.
3. Lasciviousness. All lewdness and wantonness.
4. Idolatry. Covetousness is idolatry. Col. 3:5. [pg 111] Covetousness—A desire to gain money, goods, honor, or praise, even at the expense of another.
5. Witchcraft. Enchantments and spells, such as healing by hypnotism, and sciences. Omens, signs and superstitions, so frightfully common.