Bible Passage: Galatians 5

Big Idea: Freedom in Christ equips us to live authentically and love selflessly in a world often characterized by law and selfishness. Through the Holy Spirit, we are invited to embody this divine love, making a transformative impact in our communities.

Opening Thoughts

In the fifth chapter of Galatians, Paul states that believers have been liberated through Christ and are no longer subject to the constraints of the law (Gal. 5:1-12). Instead, their guidance comes from within, through the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:13-26). The most effective way a believer is going to battle sinful temptations and impulses is to “Walk by the Spirit” (Gal 5:16). This means that as a believer we must seek to no longer be controlled by the legalistic system of the Law and allow the Holy Spirit to have control of our whole being.

Freedom from Legalism

Galatians 5:1–12

¹ For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.  ² Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. ³ I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. ⁴ You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. ⁵ For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. ⁶ For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. ⁷ You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? ⁸ This persuasion is not from him who calls you. ⁹ A little leaven leavens the whole lump.¹⁰ I have confidence in the Lord that you will take no other view, and the one who is troubling you will bear the penalty, whoever he is. ¹¹ But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. ¹² I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves!

In Galatians 5:1  Paul turns his attention to what genuine obedience to the true gospel means. He urges the Galatians to consider the consequences of falling under the influence of false teachings (Galatians 5:1-6). As followers of Christ, we are freed from the negative impact of the law and should not attempt to return to it. Just like with any legalistic system, keeping all the rules flawlessly is impossible because of our sinful nature. Only faith that expresses itself through love has true value in Christ.

Christ set us free from the slavery of the law. Paul points out to the Galatians six negative consequences of returning to the law and its legalistic control:

1. “Christ is of no benefit” (Gal 5:2). If a person insists on returning to the law it invalidates Christ’s work on the cross. The atoning sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, which was perfect and complete, cannot benefit a person who chooses to place their trust in anything else. When a person submits to something other than Christ, in the case of the Galatians “circumcision,” it demonstrates that they are not fully trusting what Jesus did on the cross. Anytime we add works to what Jesus has done, we invalidate the sufficiency of Christ for salvation.

2. “Obligated to keep the Law.” (Gal 5:3). If an individual chooses to adhere to a part of the law, they are required to observe the entirety of it. This requirement often leads to conflict, as the law governs all aspects of life and demands complete compliance for any possibility of atonement. Similarly, Jesus calls for a comparable level of commitment and loyalty. Paul therefore presented the Galatians with a challenge: they could either accept Christ and the associated benefits, or commit themselves to fulfilling the entire law. This decision represents a choice between freedom and bondage, between grace and human effort. Whenever someone attempts to achieve salvation through observance of the law or legalistic regulations, they ultimately reject the grace offered in the gospel.

3. “Fallen from grace” (Gal 5:4-6). It is important to understand that Paul is not addressing the issue of a believer’s security here, but rather contrasting two approaches to salvation: grace versus law, or faith versus works. His message to the Galatians—and to us—is that grace and law cannot be combined; accepting God’s grace is incompatible with requiring adherence to legalistic rules. Paul emphasizes that those who try to live by works adopt a mindset that prevents them from truly receiving the benefits of God’s grace. In this context, he describes such individuals as having fallen from grace.

4. “Hinders spiritual growth” (Gal 5:7-10). Paul use the metaphor of a race to describe a believer’s life. Paul is telling the Galatians that trying to obey the law will hinder their ability to grow in their faith. This is because the false teachers distort the truth. Their teachings were causing them to take a spiritual detour that was hindering their growth. They had become more concerned with obeying the law than obeying the truth. Turning to a cooking illustration, Paul compares the false teaching of legalism to yeast. A little legalism can contaminate a believer’s ability to grow spiritually. that is why it is important that we must guard against trying to add anything to the saving grace of the gospel.

5. “True teachers persecuted” (Gal 5:11). False teachers often criticize the church loudly. Judaizers claimed Paul supported circumcision, prompting him to ask why he was still persecuted. Paul had clarified his stance against circumcision and addressed the matter with church leaders in Acts 15.

Paul’s experience of persecution was regarded as proof that he was faithfully conveying the message of the cross. For those who challenged him, the main issue lay with the doctrine itself, which claimed that salvation comes through faith in Christ’s sacrifice rather than adherence to laws or reliance on personal merit. From this standpoint, individuals committed to scriptural teachings will face resistance. . It is suggested that they act professionally and respectfully so any offense stems from the gospel’s content, not their behavior If teachings do not prompt reflection or challenge current beliefs, it may be worthwhile to review the message being conveyed.

6. “Anger” (Gal 5:12). Paul was completely exasperated with the false teachers who were preaching circumcision and sabotaging the Galatians’ faith. He had reached a point of righteous anger against the false teachers. To put in plain English, Paul wishes that if the legalist are so hung up on circumcision that maybe they should show ultimate devotion to God by castrating themselves as was a common practice of pagan worshipers.

Adding human effort or requirements to the concept of divine grace as provided through the death of Jesus is considered by many theological perspectives to substitute the gospel’s message with legalism. To avoid legalism, it is important to understand that salvation is not contingent upon adherence to rules, but rather upon faith in Christ. Individuals are encouraged to demonstrate their faith through acts of love and compassion toward others, thereby embodying the values central to their beliefs.

Freedom to Serve

Galatians 5:13–21

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.” ¹⁵ But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. ¹⁶ But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.¹⁷ For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. ¹⁸ But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. ¹⁹ Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,  ²⁰ idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,²¹ envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Paul advises the Galatians to exercise discernment, urging them not to construe their freedom in Christ as justification for inappropriate conduct. Scriptural freedom is characterized by liberation from unwarranted constraints, which empowers individuals to responsibly engage in a renewed relationship with God and fulfil their divine calling.

Furthermore, Paul observes that anger or resentment may arise amid conflict or disagreement. He refers to Galatians 5:13-15, recommending its guidance on serving others with love. Through the practice of forgiveness and addressing issues with grace and understanding, individuals contribute to reconciliation. Prioritizing love and unity, even among those with differing perspectives, fosters a more harmonious and cohesive community.

Paul cautions the Galatians against succumbing to the works of the flesh (Gal 5:19-21). In several of his writings, like Rom. 1:29-31; 1 Cor. 5:10-11; 6:9-10; Eph. 4:25-32; 5:3-5; Col. 3:5-8, he provides thorough lists of specific sins that exemplify these “works of the flesh.” The passage in Galatians divides these acts into four types: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, and idolatry. Paul makes it clear that those who consistently engage in such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Do not use your freedom in Christ as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another in love. Are you struggling with selfish desires taking over your actions? Start actively looking for opportunities to serve others in your church and community. By shifting your focus from yourself to serving others, you will find fulfillment and grow in love and humility.

Fruitful Freedom

Galatians 5:22–26

²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,²³ gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.²⁴ And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵ If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶ Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another

During my college years, a preacher posed an interesting question: what do you expect to find inside when you peel an orange? Most people would naturally say orange juice. But suppose someone had put ink inside instead; then that’s what you’d get—whatever’s inside is what comes out. In the same way, whatever fills us internally will reveal itself outwardly. It seems logical that if the Holy Spirit resides within us and works through us, then that influence will be reflected in our actions and behavior.

Paul explains what it means to have the Holy Spirit residing in us by contrasting actions of our old nature with those of a new nature led by the Spirit. In Gal 5:19–23, he compares the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. Paul first lists the acts of sinful flesh, grouping them into four categories: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, and idolatry. He declares that anyone who continually practices these actions will not inherit the kingdom of God. Next, Paul lists the fruits produced by the Spirit. It’s important to note these are called the fruit of the Spirit—not the fruit of personal effort. When we live controlled by the Spirit, the Holy Spirit produces qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in our lives.

Paul identified nine qualities, known as the fruit of the Holy Spirit, which are produced in a believer’s life. These nine qualities can be divided into three groups: foundational fruit, relational fruit, and devotional fruit. All nine characteristics should be present in a believer’s life as proof of the Holy Spirit’s work within them.

Foundational Fruit

These are called foundational fruits because if you do not have Love, Joy or Peace, it will be very difficult to be able to give evidence of the others.

Love (ἀγάπη) – Paul begins with love, considering it fundamental to the development of all other fruit. The Greek term “agape” (ἀγάπη) denotes a form of divine love characterized by personal choice and intentional self-giving service, rather than mere pleasant emotions or feelings. This type of love is not contingent on the recipient’s worthiness but arises from grace, benefiting even those who may not merit it. According to Paul, this is the form of love that God demonstrates towards humanity ( John 3:16 ).

Joy (χαρά), identified as chara, represents the second aspect of the fruit of the Spirit. The term appears approximately 70 times in the New Testament, consistently referring to a sense of happiness rooted in spiritual truths. Joy is regarded as a profound and enduring sense of well-being that persists in individuals who are assured of their relationship with the Lord. This state does not arise from favorable external circumstances or simply from human emotions that have been divinely influenced. Sometimes our greatest times of Joy are when life’s circumstances are most painful and severe

Peace (εἰρήνη) can be understood as the tranquility of mind arising from a restored relationship with God, in contrast to joy, which is characterized by a sense of exhilaration stemming from this reconciliation. The verb form of “peace” refers to the concept of binding together; an idea echoed in the modern phrase “having it all together.” This suggests that peace embodies a state where all aspects are properly aligned and functioning as they should. Importantly, like joy, true peace does not depend on external circumstances; indeed, some of the most profound experiences of peace may occur during periods of significant difficulty or distress.

Relational Fruit

The next group of three are related to how we relate to others. These characteristics/attitudes undergird our relationships in life.

Patience. (μακροθυμία) The term “makrothumia” refers to a form of patience characterized by tolerance and the endurance of difficulties or injuries caused by others. It involves a composed willingness to accept circumstances that may be irritating or painful. Individuals demonstrating patience show understanding toward the shortcomings of others. In the same way that God is patient with humanity, God’s Spirit enables us to exhibit patience toward others (Romans 2:4; 3:25).

Kindness (χρηστότης), or chrēstotēs, denotes a genuine concern for others. It is not to be interpreted as weakness or indecision; rather, it signifies an individual’s earnest commitment to act with gentleness, mirroring the care exemplified by the Lord. The Apostle Paul illustrated this concept when he reminded the Thessalonians that, though he possessed apostolic authority, he “proved to be gentle among [them], as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children” (1 Thess. 2:6–7). Kindness entails consistently seeking to promote the wellbeing of others in all circumstances. As God demonstrates such care for His people, His Spirit likewise enables believers to extend kindness to others (Colossians 3:12).

Goodness. (ἀγαθωσύνη) The word “agathos” refers to moral and spiritual excellence, recognized by its gentleness and active helpfulness. Paul illustrated this virtue when he noted, “One will scarcely die for a righteous man; but perhaps someone might dare to die for a good man” (Rom. 5:7). Goodness extends the idea of kindness by turning positive attitudes into tangible actions. Empowered by the Spirit, people actively do good for others (Ephesians 5:9).

Devotional Fruit

This list concludes with three general characteristics that undergird all the believer’s actions.

Faithfulness. (Πίστις) Pistis (faithfulness) is the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit that pertains to loyalty and trustworthiness. Jeremiah declared that “the Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness” (Lam. 3:22). Faithfulness in this context communicates a willingness to practice without fail what one believes. As God has been devoted and persistent to fulfill the promises he has made, so also his Spirit empowers us to be persistently devoted. We must conduct ourselves just as faithfully as God. We are dependably loyal to our Lord and to our fellow believers. We even dependably love our enemies.

Gentleness. (πραυτης) Prautēs  (gentleness) includes the idea of gentleness but is usually better translated meekness. It is that humble and gentle attitude that is patiently submissive in every offense, while being free of any desire for revenge or retribution. The standard Greek lexicon explains it as “the quality of not being overly impressed by a sense of one’s self-importance.” It is the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, recognize your own vulnerability, and respond in a caring and compassionate manner,

Self-control. (ἐγκράτεια) Enkrateia (self-control) has reference to restraining passions and appetites. By concluding the list with self-control, Paul highlighted the importance of discipline and active submission of one’s will to the Holy Spirit in order to bear fruit. We also acknowledge our inability to produce the fruit of the Spirit on our own, regardless of how hard we try. Self-control is the ability to keep one’s desires in check. This was a characteristic widely admired in Paul’s time, but not widely practiced any more then than it is now. Coming at the end of Paul’s list, this term reminds us that with the Spirit’s many positive impulses, our desires no longer become the basis for selfish, destructive thoughts and actions (2 Peter 1:5–7).Self-control was one of the virtues most emphasized by philosophers and respected in Roman society. Philosophers often taught that the wise needed no law to regulate them, because their virtue itself was a law. Paul says that people of the Spirit fulfill the moral intent of the law (5:14) by means of the Spirit guiding their lives.

Application

Scripture presents Christ as the fulfillment of the law and the embodiment of grace, providing liberation from sin and death. According to Paul’s explanation in this chapter, His redemptive work empowers believers to lead lives guided by the Spirit. Through a clear understanding of our identity in Christ and by embracing the freedom He provides, we can achieve genuine spiritual growth and transformation, thereby enhancing our capacity to love and serve others effectively.

If you’ve been struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress, focus on cultivating peace through prayer. Dedicate a few moments each day to pray, lifting up your worries to God and inviting His peace into your life. Join a local community group or Bible study where you can find support, encouragement, and accountability from fellow believers to help you grow in your faith and walk closely with God.

Discussion Questions

How did Paul contrast legalists and true believers? (5:5)

What are the side effects of trying to be saved by keeping the Law?

What happens to a Christian who is under the control of the Holy Spirit? (5:22–23)

How much should we rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and power in our lives?

How can a person cultivate the character qualities of the Holy Spirit in his or her life?

What can you do this week to nurture the character of the Holy Spirit in your life?

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{Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture verses are taken from the English Standard Version}

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