Galatians 5:16

Commentary on Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)

Galatians 5:16 (NKJV) states:

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

This verse is part of a broader passage where the Apostle Paul exhorts the Galatians to live by the Spirit, contrasting the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:13–26). The context of the letter addresses the issues of legalism and the liberty found in Christ, urging believers to maintain their freedom by living a Spirit-led life.

Theological Insights and Teaching

Walking in the Spirit:

“Walking in the Spirit” signifies a life guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This is an essential aspect of sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ. John Calvin, emphasised the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in leading believers to live according to God’s will (Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book III, Chapter 3).

Lust of the Flesh:

The “lust of the flesh” refers to sinful desires that are contrary to God’s commands. Jonathan Edwards recognises the pervasive nature of sin and the need for divine grace to overcome it (Edwards, Religious Affections). Walking by the Spirit enables believers to resist these sinful tendencies.

Liberty in Christ:

Paul’s message to the Galatians underscores the liberty that believers have in Christ. This liberty is not a license to sin but a freedom to serve God and others in love (Galatians 5:13). True freedom is found in submission to God’s will and being led by the Spirit (Calvin, Commentary on Galatians).

Practical Application:

For modern Christian living, Galatians 5:16 calls believers to rely on the Holy Spirit daily. This involves prayer, reading Scripture, and being part of a faith community that encourages spiritual growth. Such practices enable them to live a life that reflects Christ’s character and counters the influence of sinful desires.

Galatians 5:16 teaches that living by the Spirit is key to overcoming sinful desires and living a life pleasing to God. This principle remains foundational, emphasising reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and empowerment in the believer’s daily life.