It could be said that verse 16 is an apt description of what Christian living is about, or Paul's instructions on how to live the Christian life. In that sense it is one of the most practical verses we will ever read. But in order to understand the practicality of it, we must understand the theology behind it.
(16) But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
This is Paul's response to those of his enemies who say that if he tells Gentiles they are free from the law and no longer under it then he is giving them a license to indulge their sinful natures. Well, what is your alternative, Paul? If we are no longer under Moses, how then do we live the Christian life? Under what principles? With what guidance?
Remember verses 13 and 14?
(13) For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (14) For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Paul says we are called not to law, but to love, for love is the fulfilling of the law. Love in this sense is seen as an action word, not just an emotion. Love is measured by what we do, not by what we say. So we are free, but not free to indulge our sinful nature. We are free from the bondage and curse of the law to love God and neighbor. As opposed to serving the law, we serve one another. But in what power and by what guidance do we do this?
Below is the audio recording of the Bible study I taught from this passage. Just click the link below to stream it and listen to it. I pray it will be a blessing.
Click here: Galatians 5:16-18 - Walk By the Spirit
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