Today we’re reading Galatians 5 together. Let’s take a look at it:
- Paul begins this chapter by very plainly saying that Jesus set us free so we could live in freedom. This is why Paul so strongly tells the Galatians not to return to the law (see Galatians 3 for more on this topic).
- Then Paul starts talking about circumcision and how if someone is circumcised they are obligated to obey the law again. Paul is referring to circumcision as the religious act that Jews perform. Remember Paul is talking to non-Jews who were deciding to take on forms of Jewish law (such as the act of circumcision) to gain favor with God. So Paul’s words do not apply to a medical practice today. Paul’s words in verse 6 do apply; “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”
- In verse 14 Paul shows how the law regarding how we live with each other can be summed up in the following statement: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus said the entire law can be summed up in two commands: “Love God and Love People.”
- Paul ends with saying we should live by the spirit. This may sound obscure but what he is saying is to live by following God and his guidance.
Do you live in the freedom you’ve gained by following Jesus? Do you use that freedom to do whatever you want without regard to how it offends God or others? If so then ask for forgiveness of both God and whoever else you’ve offended. Does your life reflect the two commands Jesus gave us; Love God and Love People? A good test for that is to examine your life for each of the following; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Work on just one of these each day for the next 9 days.
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