Christian Freedom

 

After Jesus’ death on the cross and subsequent resurrection, many still held fast to the Old Testament laws. In Galatians chapter 5, Paul is telling his listeners that there is no longer a need to be justified by the law since Jesus’ death is sufficient for our salvation.

This great news, however, does come with new instructions.

Our freedom does not mean we are free to do whatever we want and indulge ourselves in whatever we desire. We are given this freedom to serve and lift up each other in love and humility. Paul summarises the commandments into one: Love your neighbor as yourself.

Galatians 5:16 comes right after this summary and his advice to us. In our freedom, we will always be tempted to sin and indulge ourselves instead of serving each other. By walking in the Spirit, we have the empowerment to make wise and spiritual decisions. Living a Spirit-filled life results in an increasing measure of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as fruit of the Spirit (vv. 22-23).

Are you about to do something or make a decision that is unloving? Consider Paul’s words and let the Holy Spirit lead instead, and enabling you to love your neighbor as yourself. For more information about the Spirit-filled life, read and act on this article by Dr Bill Bright, the late co-founder of Campus Crusade for Christ.