So with Adam and Eve the history of human beings began without the active presence of God in their lives; they lacked the power and help of His Spirit.
God's Spirit is not a substitute for the knowledge of right and wrong that comes from God's commandments and laws. Rather, through His Spirit God supplies the power we need to obey His Word and do His will.
The teachings of Jesus of Nazareth are revolutionary—not because He annulled the laws God revealed, but because He expanded them, showing their spiritual intent.
When our minds and hearts are transformed by the Holy Spirit, we put on Christ. Paul describes this dramatic change in our hearts and minds as Jesus Christ living within us.
The fruit of the Spirit reflects the goodness, faithfulness and self-restraint inherent in God's nature. If His Spirit is in us, these traits that are the Spirit's fruit should also become fundamental characteristics of our nature.
These questions are intended as a study aid, to spur further thought on the concepts discussed in this lesson and to help you apply them on a personal level.