SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

FOR OUR STUDY IN GALATIANS CHAPTER FIVE

Paul will now apply practically what he has taught doctrinally. The Bible gives us doctrine (teaching), but is also profitable for criticism, for correction, for coaching in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

The Bible is both doctrinal and practical. This balance is very crucial in the life of believers. Paul desires for the churches of Galatia to rid themselves of the legalistic teachings of the Judaizers and walk in the freedom they possess in Christ. The last word of Chapter 4 is “free.” The Christian is free! We are free from the power of Satan, the dominion of Satan, and the fleshly allurements of the world. • 2 Corinthians 3:17 declares “…and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.”

 We have been freed by the Spirit. This freedom is not a license to sin. To the contrary, it is freedom to be changed by the Spirit of the Lord into the image of Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:18 Instead of the outward oppression of a law system that we cannot keep, we have the inward working of God’s Spirit that bears Christ-like fruit through us.

• The law brings bondage and condemnation. Acts 15:10
• God’s Spirit brings glory as He works in the believer. 2 Corinthians 3:18 6.

These are the truths that Paul will emphasize in Chapter Five.