Translations
Original
Notes
People who trust in Jesus share in his death on the cross through faith (compare 2:19–20; Romans 6). They become new people (Romans 6:1–2; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:5–15). They have left behind their sinful nature and the law (see Galatians 2:19; Romans 7:4–6; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Colossians 3:1–4).
passions and desires: Refer to 5:19–21.
A faith without laws will not cause moral ruin. The Holy Spirit guides people, changing their hearts to follow God's will and not sin (see Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10).
Paul explains that justification (being in right relationship with God) comes by faith alone. He then asks, "If we do not follow the law, what guides our behavior?" He answers that the Holy Spirit provides righteousness. The Judaizers (Jewish Christians who believed in following traditional Jewish laws) likely warned that Paul's message of freedom could lead believers to moral failure (5:1). Paul argues that freedom is not an excuse to sin because love guides Christians. We should use our freedom to serve each other with love (see also 2:20; 2 Corinthians 5:14–15).
Parallels
People
Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law Crucifixion Flesh Fruit of the Spirit Letter to the Galatians New Covenant Peter, Second Letter of
Topics
Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints Carnal Christians Crucifixion: Figurative Death to Self Dying to Self Holiness: General Scriptures Concerning Religion: True Righteous: Described Self Denial Self-Denial: General Scriptures Concerning Self-Denial: should be Exercised in Crucifying the Flesh Sins of the Flesh The Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints The Drunken Walking in the Spirit War: Over the Flesh Warfare of Saints: Victory In, Is: Over the Flesh Willful Sin