Light + Truth Fruit Only the Spirit Can Grow
Nov 21, 2025
John Piper, a renowned theologian and pastor, dives into the transformative message of Galatians 5. He reveals why relying solely on moral lists leads to legalism and stifles genuine growth. Piper intricately defines 'the flesh' as the self-reliant ego and contrasts subtle self-exaltation with blatant immorality. He emphasizes that true goodness is born from a grace mentality, not merit. With a vivid dragon analogy, he illustrates the battle against the flesh, urging believers to embrace their reliance on mercy for spiritual fruitfulness.
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Flesh Defined As Self-Reliant Ego
- The flesh is not the body but the self-reliant ego that craves praise and power.
- This ego co-opts the body but originates in the heart and mind, producing moral failure either subtly or flagrantly.
Why Vices Are Called 'Works'
- Paul calls vices "works of the flesh" because they stem from a merit mentality seeking pay or settling accounts.
- These emotional outbursts aim to collect what the heart thinks it earned and so are aptly labeled 'works.'
Effortlessness Doesn't Explain 'Fruit'
- The effortless nature of sinful reactions disproves that 'fruit' implies effortlessness alone.
- Both sin and Spirit-fruit can be spontaneous, so the labels address underlying motives, not effort.
