What is the meaning of Galatians 5:18? But if - The word “But” points back to Galatians 5:17, where the flesh and the Spirit are described as being in conflict. Here Paul pivots, offering a hopeful alternative to the pull of the sinful nature. - “If” sets up a real, practical condition. It is not a remote possibility but an invitation: every believer can enter this Spirit-directed way of life (Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:5–6). - The statement signals that what follows is true whenever the condition is met—much like the promise in John 15:5, “If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit.” you are led - “Led” implies continual guidance rather than a one-time push. It is the picture of a shepherd going ahead and the sheep following (John 10:27). - This leadership is personal, relational, and active. It contrasts sharply with the impersonal demands of an external code (Romans 7:6). - Romans 8:14 confirms the same truth: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” Being led evidences true sonship. by the Spirit - The Holy Spirit Himself—not human effort—does the leading. Acts 13:2 shows the Spirit directing the church, while Ezekiel 36:27 foretold that God would put His Spirit within His people and “cause you to walk in My statutes.” - His leading involves: • Prompting our hearts to obey (Philippians 2:13). • Illuminating Scripture so we understand God’s will (1 Corinthians 2:12). • Producing character that matches Christ’s (Galatians 5:22-23). - Because the Spirit is God, His guidance never contradicts the written Word He inspired (2 Timothy 3:16). you are not under the law - “Under” suggests being beneath a weight or in the custody of something. Before faith, we were “held in custody under the law” (Galatians 3:23). - In Christ, believers have been released from the law’s condemning authority (Romans 6:14). The law still describes God’s moral standards, but it no longer stands over us as a judge. - Freedom from the law’s penalty does not license sin; rather, Spirit-led living fulfills the righteous requirement the law described (Romans 8:3-4). - Practical outworking: • We obey out of love, not fear (1 John 4:18-19). • Our focus shifts from rule-keeping to relationship-walking (Galatians 5:6). • The Spirit empowers what the law could only command (Hebrews 8:10). summary Galatians 5:18 promises that when believers yield to the Holy Spirit’s ongoing guidance, they experience a freedom the law could never provide. The Spirit leads, empowers, and transforms, liberating us from the law’s condemnation and enabling genuine, joyful obedience that reflects the heart of God. |
    |