Rich’s primary topic of writing and speaking is the Forgotten Fruit of the Spirit (FFotS) – and specifically the Vegetables of the Spirit. (VotS)

Few lists have been as studied and memorized as Paul’s Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. Paul’s own words, however, indicate that this list was meant to be representative, and not exhaustive, when he immediately follows up the nine virtues with “against such things there is no law.” (Emphasis added)

Paul did the same things a few verses earlier, ending the acts of the sinful nature with “and the like.”

“Forgotten Fruit” were never forgotten by God, but because they are not listed we sometimes fail to realize that there are other “such things” which the Holy Spirit develops in the lives of a believer, or that Scripture directly or indirectly references as a positive trait among maturing Christians.

These may align very closely with the nine Paul shares by name – such as contentment – and listing these often can feel like plucking synonyms from a thesaurus.  Where does one end and another begin?

The “Vegetables of the Spirit,” on the other hand, while still scriptural and positive virtues, may not be popular among some Christians or churches. They may not “feel” Christian as we have come to define Christian. Uncomfortable. Awkward.

A few examples are Risk, Greatness, and Boldness. Churches may shy away from these out of an assumed association with their Spirit-less counterfeits (Recklessness, Pride/Ego, and Arrogance).

The Bible, however, does not shy away from the Vegetables. Neither should we, for they are instrumental to a balanced, “life to the full” Jesus speaks of.

FFotS

I have spent over two decades on this topic and look forward to sharing the topic with groups of any type, size, or duration. I have shared with small groups, men’s breakfasts, Sunday morning messages, conference workshops all the way up to full multi-day retreats.

The topic can easily be customized to your group, as we can talk about any of the following:

    1. The Vegetables of the Spirit themselves (or the Fruit, but MANY resources focus on the Fruit)
    2. The needed balance between the Fruit and the Vegetables
      • Forgiveness lies in the tension between Peace and Conflict
      • Discipleship IS Conflict (A new look at Ironing Sharpening Iron.)
    3. The dangers of slipping into Spirit-less Counterfeits on either side
      • Spirit-inspired Boldness slipping into selfish Arrogance
      • Peace being distorted into Concession or People-Pleasing

More than anything, I want our time together to reflect where your specific group needs to be encouraged – or challenged. If I share with twenty different groups, beyond the initial foundation the areas of focus may be different each time!

Want to learn more?

Contact me with any questions, or to discuss how I can serve you, your group, or organization.

Contact Rich