Fruit of the Spirit – Goodness
Video Questions
- How did goodness show up in the story from the video?
- How was this goodness the result of being connected to the Spirit?
Goodness is demonstrated in our lives when we do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
Scripture
Read Matthew 25.34-40:
34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
- What do you learn about goodness in this passage?
- Who were the “least of these” in Jesus day? What about today? Why does Jesus focus his attention on them and not others (i.e., the “best of these”)?
General Questions
- Only God is truly and completely good. How has he demonstrated his goodness in your life recently?
- What are some ways we can remember how God has been good to us? Why might remembering his goodness be an important spiritual practice?
- Within Christian community, how can we demonstrate goodness among one another?
- What are some practical ways we can spur one another on to showing goodness in our lives?
- As a group, define what good news is. Now think for a while about how the “least of these” in our day may define good news in their lives. Is there a difference?
- How can we share and embody goodness among those in our lives most in need of it? Think practically!
Challenge
Visit an immediate neighbor. Invite them over for a meal, for coffee, or to watch a sporting event. Take this opportunity to get to know them. Listen for ways you can demonstrate goodness in their lives…and then do it! Be good news in their lives! Be a tangible blessing!
Prayer
Father, you alone are good. And any goodness we may possess or demonstrate is only thanks to you and the power of your Spirit. Help us always remain humble as we seek to be good. Remind us that we are no better than anyone else. We’re all messed up and in need of you. This week, and every week, point us to whomever you would bring across our paths. Show us how to be good news in their lives. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.