Scripture Text: Matthew 25:14-30
Memory Verse: Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2
Lesson Aim: To understand faith(fulness) as an element of the fruit of the Spirit.
As we have progressed in our study of the fruit of the Spirit, it should be obvious by now that believers should seek to display all facets of the fruit of the Spirit as evidence of change. Faith is no exception. The Greek word “pistis” translated in Galatians 5:22 as “faith” can also be rendered as “fidelity” or “faithfulness”.
Faith is a must for successful Kingdom living. We all have a measure of faith (Romans 12:3). We receive it from God when we become a new creation in Him. When a person accepts Christ, they are immediately enrolled in the “school of faith.” School is where we learn and grow. We are introduced to concepts, their application and use. Review and testing are part of the learning experience.
Consequently, as believers, we cannot predict what will happen in our lives but God (who is faithful and works all things together for good) uses life experiences (tests and trials) to grow us to spiritual maturity.
Our faith develops and matures as we experience spiritual growth. Similar to fruit on a tree, the fruit of the Spirit must blossom, bring forth buds and then fruit that is well-formed and fully developed. Faith is what keeps us going when times are hard because we know we have a hope that makes us not ashamed. It is that faith, that also allows us to be faithful.
When we consider the parable in Matthew 25, we see that the faithful servants were those that showed their faith by their works. They received their instructions and went to work without knowing what the final outcome would be. They did not make excuses or factor in a way out. They fulfilled their assignment. They were faithful.
In contrast, the unfaithful servant relied on excuses and circumstances in an attempt to justify his faithlessness and laziness. We must take this lesson to heart to ensure that we are faithful to fulfill God’s mission with the resources He has given us.
Maturing faith allows us to walk by faith and not by sight. Faithfulness grows out of that faith, allowing us to be reliable, trustworthy and dependable. We are able to hold fast to an outcome that we have not yet seen, but for the fact that we believe and trust God.
As it matures, faith believes for the unbelievable, imagines the inconceivable, expects the impossible, and does the supernatural. When others give up, it is faith that keeps us faithful. Let us be full of faith and faithful. As we rely on God, others can rely on us.
Interact with God’s Word
- Define faithfulness in your own words. Discuss the connection between “faith” and “faithfulness”.
- In 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 and 1 Timothy 3:11, who is God calling to be faithful and why?
- Contrast the behavior and outcomes of the three servants in Matthew 25:14-30. Note how the unprofitable servant was described as wicked.
- Consider the admonition Paul gave in 2 Timothy 2:1-2. Why do you think he emphasized “faithful” men.
- What does faithfulness look like in real life?
- Considering the 21st Century church, in what ways do professing Christians need to grow in faith and faithfulness? Give examples.
- In what ways do you personally need to be more faithful?