Ephesians 5:9

KJV

(For the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)

KJV (with Strong's)

(For {G1063} the fruit {G2590} of the Spirit {G4151} is in {G1722} all {G3956} goodness {G19} and {G2532} righteousness {G1343} and {G2532} truth {G225};)

Complete Jewish Bible

for the fruit of the light is in every kind of goodness, rightness and truth —

Berean Standard Bible

for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.

American Standard Version

(for the fruit of the light is in all goodness and righteousness and truth),

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 5:9 serves as a parenthetical clarification, elucidating the intrinsic qualities that characterize a life lived in alignment with God's divine nature. It reveals that the authentic "walk as children of light," exhorted in the preceding verse, is inherently manifested through the cultivation and display of goodness, righteousness, and truth, all of which are the supernatural produce of the Holy Spirit's indwelling work in the believer.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Paul's letter to the Ephesians, specifically in the latter half (chapters 4-6) where he transitions from profound theological exposition to practical ethical exhortations for Christian living. Following his appeal for believers to "walk worthy of the calling" in [Ephesians 4](/ephesians/4 "Ephesians 4 - Walking Worthy of Your Calling"), Paul directly addresses the transformation from a life of darkness to one of light. [Ephesians 5:8](/ephesians/5-8 "Ephesians 5:8 - From Darkness to Light") declares, "For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light." Verse 9 then immediately clarifies *how* one walks as a child of light, defining the "fruit of the Spirit" as goodness, righteousness, and truth. This explanation sets the stage for the subsequent warnings against unfruitful works of darkness and the call to discern what is pleasing to the Lord in [Ephesians 5:10-14](/ephesians/5-10-14 "Ephesians 5:10-14 - Exposing the Deeds of Darkness").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ephesian church was situated in a prominent Roman city, a hub of commerce and diverse religious practices, including the pervasive cult of Artemis. This environment was rife with pagan immorality, idolatry, and deceptive practices, which stood in stark contrast to the ethical demands of the Christian faith. Paul's exhortations in [Ephesians 5](/ephesians/5 "Ephesians 5 - Walking in Love and Light") were not abstract theological concepts but direct challenges to the prevailing cultural norms. The call to walk in "goodness, righteousness, and truth" was a radical counter-cultural mandate, distinguishing believers from the surrounding darkness and providing a clear moral compass in a world often devoid of such virtues. The emphasis on truth, in particular, would have resonated deeply in a society where deception and falsehood were common, highlighting the integrity expected of those who followed Christ.

* **Key Themes:** Ephesians 5:9 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the epistle. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Transformation and New Identity**, emphasizing that believers are no longer defined by their former state of darkness but by their new identity as "light in the Lord" ([Ephesians 5:8](/ephesians/5-8 "Ephesians 5:8 - From Darkness to Light")). This new identity naturally produces a new way of living. Secondly, it highlights the **Empowering Role of the Holy Spirit** in Christian conduct. The "fruit of the Spirit" indicates that godly character is not merely a result of human effort but an organic outflow of the Spirit's work within the believer, aligning with the broader emphasis on the Spirit's role in the church and individual lives found throughout [Ephesians](/ephesians "The Book of Ephesians"). Lastly, the verse reinforces the theme of **Ethical Living and Moral Purity**, providing concrete virtues—goodness, righteousness, and truth—as the hallmarks of genuine faith and a life pleasing to God, which is a consistent call throughout Paul's practical instructions in Ephesians 4-6.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fruit (Greek, _karpós'_):** From G2590, this term literally refers to a natural product, such as the yield of a tree or plant. Figuratively, as used here, it denotes the outcome, result, or consequence of an action or, more profoundly, of an indwelling spiritual principle. In this context, it signifies the tangible, observable manifestations of the Holy Spirit's work within a believer, much like a tree naturally bears its characteristic fruit. It implies an organic, inevitable produce rather than a forced or artificial one.
* **Spirit (Greek, _pneûma'_):** From G4151, this word primarily means "a current of air, breath," but in theological contexts, it overwhelmingly refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. Here, "the Spirit" is the divine agent, the source of the "fruit." It is through the indwelling and empowering presence of the Holy Spirit that goodness, righteousness, and truth are produced in the life of a believer, making these virtues a divine work rather than solely human striving.
* **goodness (Greek, _agathōsýnē'_):** From G19, this term denotes moral excellence, virtue, and beneficence. It encompasses not only an inherent moral uprightness but also an active, benevolent disposition that seeks to do good for others. It is a comprehensive quality of character that is inherently beneficial and morally sound, reflecting God's own nature.
* **righteousness (Greek, _dikaiosýnē'_):** From G1343, this word signifies equity of character and act, specifically Christian justification and conformity to God's divine standard. It refers to living in a manner that is just, upright, and in right relationship with God and others. It is about aligning one's life with God's holy will and demonstrating integrity in all dealings.
* **truth (Greek, _alḗtheia'_):** From G225, this term refers to reality, sincerity, integrity, and honesty. In a biblical sense, it is not merely intellectual accuracy but a moral quality of living in accordance with divine revelation and reality, free from deception, falsehood, or pretense. It contrasts sharply with the hidden, deceptive works of darkness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the fruit of the Spirit is"**: This introductory phrase, marked by the conjunction "For" (G1063, _gár_), signals that this verse provides the reason or explanation for the preceding command to "walk as children of light" ([Ephesians 5:8](/ephesians/5-8 "Ephesians 5:8 - Walk as Children of Light")). The "fruit of the Spirit" identifies the divine source and natural outcome of such a walk. It underscores that these qualities are not self-generated but are the supernatural produce of the Holy Spirit's indwelling power and influence in the believer's life.
* **"in all goodness"**: This clause introduces the first of three defining characteristics of the Spirit's fruit. "Goodness" (G19, _agathōsýnē_) encompasses moral excellence, benevolence, and an active desire to do what is right and beneficial to others. It signifies a character marked by integrity and a disposition towards kindness and virtue in every aspect of life ("in all").
* **"and righteousness"**: The second characteristic, "righteousness" (G1343, _dikaiosýnē_), refers to conformity to God's divine standard, uprightness, and justice. It speaks to living in a way that is pleasing to God and demonstrates integrity in one's dealings with others. It is about being right with God and living rightly before humanity, reflecting God's own just character.
* **"and truth;"**: The final characteristic, "truth" (G225, _alḗtheia_), denotes sincerity, honesty, and living in accordance with reality and divine revelation. It stands in stark contrast to deception, falsehood, and the hidden works of darkness. This quality implies transparency, authenticity, and a commitment to God's revealed word as the ultimate standard of reality.

#### Literary Devices
Ephesians 5:9 employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the "fruit of the Spirit." This imagery draws from the natural world, comparing the spiritual qualities produced in a believer's life to the natural yield of a plant. Just as a healthy tree naturally bears its characteristic fruit, a believer indwelt by the Holy Spirit will organically manifest goodness, righteousness, and truth. This metaphor emphasizes the organic, divine origin of these virtues, distinguishing them from mere human effort or moral striving. The verse also functions as a **Parenthetical Statement**, marked by the introductory "For" (gár), providing an immediate explanation and clarification for the preceding command to "walk as children of light." This structural choice highlights the essential connection between the command and its practical outworking. Furthermore, the listing of "goodness and righteousness and truth" constitutes an **Enumeration** or a **Triadic Structure**. This concise list of three virtues provides a comprehensive yet succinct summary of the core ethical dimensions of the Spirit-filled life, emphasizing their collective importance. Finally, while not explicitly stated in this verse, the context of [Ephesians 5:8](/ephesians/5-8 "Ephesians 5:8 - From Darkness to Light") and [Ephesians 5:11](/ephesians/5-11 "Ephesians 5:11 - No Fellowship with Darkness") creates an implicit **Antithesis** between the "fruit of the Spirit" and the "unfruitful works of darkness," underscoring the radical transformation and moral distinction of the Christian life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 5:9 profoundly connects the believer's ethical conduct to the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, establishing that true Christian living is not merely an outward conformity to rules, but an organic outflow of an internal divine work. This verse bridges the gap between theological truth and practical application, demonstrating that genuine transformation in Christ inevitably manifests in concrete virtues. The "fruit of the Spirit" is a divine signature on a human life, testifying to God's active presence and sanctifying work. It emphasizes that our walk as "children of light" is characterized by virtues that reflect God's own character, making our lives a living testimony to His goodness, justice, and truth in a world often defined by their absence.

* [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fullness of the Fruit of the Spirit")
* [Philippians 1:9-11](/philippians/1-9-11 "Philippians 1:9-11 - Fruit of Righteousness for God's Glory")
* [Colossians 1:9-10](/colossians/1-9-10 "Colossians 1:9-10 - Walking Worthy and Bearing Fruit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 5:9 calls us to a profound self-examination: are the qualities of goodness, righteousness, and truth genuinely evident in our lives? This verse challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual assent to faith and into a vibrant, Spirit-empowered demonstration of Christ's character. It reminds us that our spiritual growth is not solely about avoiding sin, but actively cultivating virtues that reflect the light we have received. To walk as children of light means to embody these qualities in our homes, workplaces, and communities, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our inner being and manifest His fruit outwardly. This is not a call to strive in our own strength, but to yield to the Spirit's work, trusting Him to produce in us what we cannot achieve on our own. Our lives, then, become a compelling witness to the transforming power of the Gospel, drawing others to the source of true light.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life do I see the "fruit of the Spirit" (goodness, righteousness, truth) most clearly manifested?**
* **Where might I be resisting the Holy Spirit's work in cultivating these virtues, perhaps by clinging to old habits or attitudes of darkness?**
* **How does my daily conduct reflect my identity as a "child of light," particularly in environments where goodness, righteousness, and truth are scarce?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to intentionally yield to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to produce more of His fruit in me?**

### FAQ

**What is the "fruit of the Spirit" mentioned in Ephesians 5:9, and how does it relate to Galatians 5:22-23?**

Answer: In Ephesians 5:9, the "fruit of the Spirit" is specifically identified as "goodness and righteousness and truth." This phrase refers to the moral and ethical qualities that are supernaturally produced in the life of a believer by the indwelling Holy Spirit. While [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit") provides a more comprehensive list of nine virtues (love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance), Ephesians 5:9 highlights three foundational aspects that are particularly relevant to walking "as children of light" ([Ephesians 5:8](/ephesians/5-8 "Ephesians 5:8 - Walk as Children of Light")). Goodness, righteousness, and truth are presented here as core manifestations of a life transformed by God's light, contrasting sharply with the "unfruitful works of darkness" ([Ephesians 5:11](/ephesians/5-11 "Ephesians 5:11 - Expose Unfruitful Works")). Thus, Ephesians 5:9 offers a focused summary of the Spirit's fruit, emphasizing the ethical integrity required of believers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 5:9, by revealing the "fruit of the Spirit" as goodness, righteousness, and truth, points directly to the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied these very qualities. Jesus is the ultimate manifestation of divine **goodness**, consistently demonstrating benevolence, compassion, and active love towards humanity, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross ([Mark 10:18](/mark/10-18 "Mark 10:18 - No One is Good but God Alone") and [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). He is the embodiment of perfect **righteousness**, fulfilling all the demands of God's law and living a sinless life, thereby becoming our righteousness ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Our Righteousness") and [Romans 3:21-26](/romans/3-21-26 "Romans 3:21-26 - Righteousness Through Faith")). Furthermore, Jesus declared Himself to be "the way, the **truth**, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), and His life and teachings were the perfect revelation of God's truth, contrasting sharply with the deception and darkness of the world. Therefore, when the Holy Spirit produces goodness, righteousness, and truth in believers, He is conforming them to the image of Christ, enabling them to reflect the very character of the One who is the Light of the world ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")). Our ability to bear this spiritual fruit is entirely dependent on our union with Christ, the true Vine ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abide in Me and Bear Much Fruit")), and the empowering presence of His Spirit.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 3:9

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.

1 John 3:10

In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

3 John 1:11

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Galatians 5:23

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Romans 15:14

¶ And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

Ephesians 6:14

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;