Galatians 5:16-26

KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT

Keywords 5:25

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

 

1. Live by the Spirit (16-21)

 Paul urged the Galatian Christians to live by the Spirit. One can either live by the

Spirit or by one’s sinful nature. What does it mean to live by the Spirit? It is not

giving in to the sinful nature. The two cannot coexist. They are in confl ict with

each other. It is also not being under the law. When we live by the Spirit, we are

free of the law and our sinful nature. Those who live by their sinful nature and

indulge in things like sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, hatred, discord,

jealousy, etc., cannot and will not inherit the kingdom of God.

 

2. The fruit of the Spirit (22-26)

 The fruit of the Spirit is very different from the fruit of our sinful desires. The fruit

of the Spirit includes joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and

self-control. These are all qualities modeled by our Lord Jesus Christ. We know

how we can live by the Spirit—be more like Jesus! There is no law against any of

these things. When we belong to Jesus, our sinful natures have been crucifi ed,

and we live by the Spirit.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for granting the Holy Spirit to us. Help us to live by the

Spirit.

One Word Live by the Spirit