Galatians 5:19-21 - The Works of the Flesh

We are in the practical part of Paul's letter to the Galatians. Paul spent the first two chapters defending his authority as an apostle and thereby defending the gospel he had preached to them. In chapters 3 and 4 he argued theologically, appealing to the Old Testament scriptures, for his view of the gospel. Now, in these last two chapters he is making practical application of the gospel position he has championed. Knowing that we are justified, made right with God, by faith alone without the works of the law, how now shall we live?

In other words, if we are not to live our Christian lives by submitting to the law of Moses, then how are we to live them? Do we have then a license to sin? Of course not. Paul's alternative to walking according to the Law is to walk by the Spirit, to press into Christ through the gospel, to be attentive to the means of grace. But when we are not walking by the Spirit it will be evident. That's because the works of the flesh, the outworking of our inward, sinful nature, will be manifest.

What are the 'works of the flesh'? Paul enumerates them--well, not all of them, but it's quite an extensive list. Then he makes a clear and sobering statement that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

What does that mean for us? This passage serves to establish that when Paul says that we are no longer under Moses, no longer under the law, that he is definitely not teaching that sin no longer matters. He is not guilty of antinomianism. As for our alternative to Moses as Christians, Paul is getting to that. But for this lesson we will focus in on the works of the flesh.

Below is a link to the audio of this informal bible study. To listen, just click and stream. I hope you will be blessed as God opens your understanding of his word and works his grace in you.



Click here: Galatians 5:19-21 - The Works of the Flesh



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