Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
Several quick observations of this incredible verse are: God commands us to walk in the Spirit. If it is commanded, it must be possible. If commanded and possible, then it is part of the normal Christian life and not the domain of a super class of saints. While walking in the Spirit sinning seems near impossible. Since a possibility of walking in the Spirit exists, the converse is also possible… walking in the flesh, or yielding to the prompting of the sin nature.
This is one of those verses we like reading and memorizing, but understanding and applying it often eludes us. Within its scope is a concept of sanctification so radical some would dare not even dream of it. However, it is a simple notion, visible throughout the writings of Paul, as clearly presented in Romans 6 & 8. It is the notion of the proactive (walking in the Spirit) rather than the reactive (sin and confess). It is preventative verses remedial sanctification. It is more mindful of the indwelling nature of God rather than indwelling sin. It beholds the “glory of the Lord” rather than the stench of the “old man.” Perhaps John was thinking about this when he said, “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin” (1John 2:1).
Several quick observations of this incredible verse are: God commands us to walk in the Spirit. If it is commanded, it must be possible. If commanded and possible, then it is part of the normal Christian life and not the domain of a super class of saints. While walking in the Spirit sinning seems near impossible. Since a possibility of walking in the Spirit exists, the converse is also possible… walking in the flesh, or yielding to the prompting of the sin nature.
This is one of those verses we like reading and memorizing, but understanding and applying it often eludes us. Within its scope is a concept of sanctification so radical some would dare not even dream of it. However, it is a simple notion, visible throughout the writings of Paul, as clearly presented in Romans 6 & 8. It is the notion of the proactive (walking in the Spirit) rather than the reactive (sin and confess). It is preventative verses remedial sanctification. It is more mindful of the indwelling nature of God rather than indwelling sin. It beholds the “glory of the Lord” rather than the stench of the “old man.” Perhaps John was thinking about this when he said, “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin” (1John 2:1).
2 comments:
Awesome and Amen!
I love BRIAN RUUD!! He was an amazing preacher!! I miss him and wish he would start preaching again. There was no one as great as him. Completely changed my life. I don't think I would be in the ministry if it weren't for him. God bless him!
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