The Character of Christ

Where can we clearly see the fruit of the Spirit? In The Character of Christ, Jonathan Landry Cruse shows the fruit of the Spirit in the life of our Savior.

In just over 150 pages, Cruz presents a biblical foundation for the fruit of the Spirit.  Originally preached as sermons during the summer of 2020, this book is a tight exposition.

Through the Lens of Jesus’ Life

Cruz begins with a mini biblical theology of fruit, explaining how Adam was to cultivate and tend to the garden. This was a spiritual foreshadowing of our Savior, who bore spiritual fruit in his life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, Christians are able to do the same. 

In nine chapters, Cruz examines the fruit of the Spirit through the lens of Jesus’s life. His writings are rich in biblical truth, but he also illustrates and provides applications. I was most moved to read of the permanence of joy. Christians want a joy like Jesus’, who found it in the perfect plans of God – not in circumstances or success.

Behold his Beauty

I was most challenged to exemplify the kindness of Christ. Cruz exhorts us to see ways in which Jesus shows kindness to us. From there, we can show kindness to others. He tells us never to underestimate the powerful effect an act of kindness can have on someone. And while our kindness cannot save, it can point to the kindness of Christ — which leads others to repentance.

The book ends by bringing us to behold the beauty of our Savior. Reading this book will set your heart on his.

I received a media copy of The Character of Christ and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.