Galatians 5:24

Commentary on Galatians 5:24 (NKJV)

Galatians 5:24 (NKJV): “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”

Context and Insights

Galatians 5 is a chapter that contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. The Apostle Paul addresses the Galatian church, emphasising the importance of living by the Spirit rather than indulging in the sinful nature. The chapter begins by urging believers to stand firm in the freedom that Christ has given them and not to be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Galatians 5:1). Paul then lists the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21) and the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), culminating in the declaration of Galatians 5:24.

Theological Teaching

Galatians 5:24 is understood as a call to sanctification and the mortification of sin. The verse teaches that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh, meaning they have decisively broken with their sinful nature. This crucifixion is both a past event, accomplished through union with Christ in His death, and a continuous process of resisting sinful desires.

Key Points:

Union with Christ: Believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. This union signifies that the power of sin has been broken, and believers are no longer slaves to sin (Romans 6:6–7).

Mortification of Sin: The concept of mortification, as taught by theologians like John Owen, involves actively putting to death the deeds of the body through the Spirit (Romans 8:13). It is a lifelong process of battling sin and growing in holiness.

Living by the Spirit: Galatians 5:24 is closely linked to the preceding verses that describe the fruit of the Spirit. Believers are called to walk by the Spirit, producing the fruit of love, joy, peace, and other virtues that reflect Christ’s character (Galatians 5:22–23).

Application to Modern Christian Living

For modern Christians, Galatians 5:24 serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against sin and the need for daily reliance on the Holy Spirit. It encourages believers to:

Examine their lives: Regularly assess areas where sinful desires may still have influence and seek God’s help in overcoming them.

Cultivate spiritual disciplines: Engage in practices such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers to strengthen their walk with Christ.