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Galatians 5:16-26

Summary: In Galatians 5:16-26, the apostle Paul contrasts the desires of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, emphasizing the importance of walking by the Spirit and not gratifying the desires of the sinful nature.

Application: This passage provides guidance on how to overcome the fleshly desires and live a life led by the Spirit. It encourages believers to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in their lives, resulting in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Teaching: The teaching in this sermon centers on the battle between the flesh and the Spirit in the Christian life, highlighting the need for intentional choices to feed the Spirit and deny the flesh. It emphasizes the transformative power of the Spirit in producing godly character.

How this passage could point to Christ: Jesus Christ, through His death and resurrection, provides believers with the power to overcome the works of the flesh and walk in the Spirit. He exemplified perfect obedience to God and enables believers to follow His example through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Big Idea: By fueling the spirit and cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, believers can overcome the works of the flesh and live a life that glorifies God, empowered by the Spirit through the saving work of Christ.

Recommended Study: For a deeper understanding of the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:16-26, explore the lexical meanings of the Greek words used in this passage using Logos Bible software. Additionally, study the cultural context of the Galatian church to grasp the specific struggles they faced in relation to walking by the Spirit. Delve into commentaries by N.T. Wright and F.F. Bruce for insights into Paul's theological teaching on the battle between the flesh and the Spirit.

1. Choosing Spirit-Led Steps

Galatians 5:16-18

Perhaps start the sermon by highlighting how walking by the Spirit means surrendering daily to God’s lead, contrasting it with the works of the flesh. This can demonstrate the foundational step in overcoming the flesh—choosing the Spirit's guidance over our natural inclinations.

2. Quenching Fire with Faith

Galatians 5:19-21

You could explore the works of the flesh listed in these verses, not just as sins to avoid, but as indicators of what fuels the 'fire' within. Discuss how each act directly opposes the character and work of Christ, underlining the necessity of relying on the Spirit to extinguish these flames.

3. Cultivating Christlike Character

Galatians 5:22-23

Maybe focus on the fruit of the Spirit as evidence of a life transformed by Christ. This part can provide practical ways to cultivate each aspect of the fruit in one's life, demonstrating how these characteristics are both the method and outcome of overcoming the flesh through Christ.

4. Walking Wisely in the Word

Galatians 5:24-26

Consider concluding the sermon by emphasizing that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. You might suggest ways to live in step with the Spirit, avoiding arrogance and provocation, and thus, embody the humility and selflessness of Jesus.