Putting the Sinful Nature to Death. Galatians 5:24-26.
Dear Apple of God’s Eye,
We bring the discussion about the law on the one side and faith on the other with Paul’s reiteration of his earlier statement (2:20). This time though, Paul wants it to be the personal position of every believer.
Crucifixion (v. 24). Coming to Christ requires total surrender. One is either all in Christ or not at all. It is akin to crucifying one’s old self. The Spirit of God who lives in every believer is not going to be comfortable with the sinful passions that we were captive to before.
Control (v. 25).In the place of all sinful passions, we ought to now walk in the Spirit, meaning that our thoughts, intentions, speech, and actions ought to be controlled by the Spirit. You ask how? Go back to verses 22-23 for the fruit of the Spirit.
Conceit (v. 26).In the midst of the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, the enemy will always try to disrupt God’s plan. This often takes the form of pride, which then presents in unfair treatment of others, often provoking them to anger. Do not do the devil’s work for him. Yield to the Spirit and let him produce the fruit of Christlikeness in you.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.