In Galatians 5:19-23, Paul lists “self-control” as one of the “fruit of the Spirit” and “outbursts of anger” as one of the “works of the flesh.” The contrast between these two concepts is clear: self-control is a trait of those who have the Spirit of God within them, while outbursts of anger is a characteristic of those who are controlled by their sinful nature.
Self-control, in Greek “egkrateia,” refers to the ability to govern one’s own impulses, emotions, and behavior. It involves discipline, restraint, and mastery over oneself. It is a sign of maturity and spiritual growth. Those who possess self-control are able to resist temptations, overcome obstacles, and make wise decisions.
On the other hand, outbursts of anger, in Greek “orge,” refers to sudden and uncontrolled expressions of anger. It is characterized by impulsiveness, volatility, and lack of restraint. Outbursts of anger can lead to harmful and destructive behaviors, such as verbal abuse, physical violence, and even murder.
It’s worth noting that “orge” can also be translated as “wrath” which is often associated with God’s justice and punishment. But in this context, Paul is referring to the human tendency to be controlled by anger and lash out in harmful ways.
Self-control is the opposite of outbursts of anger, as it involves the ability to control one’s own emotions and behavior, while outbursts of anger is the act of expressing intense anger in a sudden and uncontrolled way.
- He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a quick temper displays folly. (Proverbs 14:29 WEB)
- One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city. (Proverbs 16:32 WEB)
- A fool vents all of his anger, but a wise man brings himself under control. (Proverbs 29:11 WEB)
- Don’t be hasty in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools. (Ecclesiastes 7:9 WEB)
- I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:27 NIV)
- but given to hospitality, a lover of good, sober minded, fair, holy, self-controlled, (Titus 1:8 WEB)
In summary, self-control is a fruit of the Spirit that allows individuals to be in control of their emotions and behavior, while outbursts of anger is a work of the flesh that is characterized by impulsiveness, volatility, and lack of restraint. These two concepts contrast each other, and it is important to cultivate self-control in our lives and avoid giving in to outbursts of anger.
Digging deeper:
- The attitude of a godly person (Philippians 2:5) – Your attitude controls your whole life. What kind of attitude yields a successful godly life? What kind of attitude leads to destruction?
- What about the time Jesus got angry? – Godly anger should be focused on resolving a problem; never on destroying another person. Why are you angry?
- What about righteous anger (vs foolish outbursts of rage)? – Righteous anger is an appropriate response to moral or ethical violations, guided by reason and a desire to see justice done
- Godly ways to resolve conflict – There are two sides to every conflict. One or both are at fault. One or both are hurt. It doesn’t matter. God has provided guidance for both.