Week 12 – Walk by the Spirit
Galatians 5:16–26
In Galatians 5:16–26, Paul shows us what it looks like to live in the freedom Christ has provided. There is an ongoing conflict between the desires of our flesh and the desires of God’s Spirit. Paul makes the difference clear by showing us what each produces.
Walking by the Spirit means recognizing the war within us, examining what our lives are producing, and crucifying the flesh as we keep in step with God’s Spirit.
1. Recognize the War
Paul says, “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
The flesh and the Spirit are opposed to one another. The flesh desires a life centered on ourselves and our desires, while the Spirit leads us toward God and His desires.
There is no neutral ground. We walk by the Spirit when God is the supreme object of our love—when our appetites, culture, and the influence of others no longer lead us, but God leads us.
Questions:
Where do you most clearly experience the conflict between your flesh and God’s Spirit?
What desires or influences are most likely to lead you instead of God?
What does it practically look like for God to be the supreme object of your love?
2. Examine What Is Growing
Paul says “the works of the flesh are evident.” He contrasts sexual immorality, idolatry, jealousy, anger, division, envy, drunkenness and other works of the flesh with the fruit produced by God's Spirit.
The difference between works and fruit is important. The flesh works and strives to satisfy its desires, but spiritual fruit is produced in us because Christ has already accomplished the work and His Spirit is now at work within us.
Our lives become a type of garden where the things of God grow: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Questions:
When you examine your life right now, what seems to be growing?
Which work of the flesh do you most need God to expose and remove?
Which fruit of the Spirit do you most desire to see grow?
Why is it important that Paul calls these qualities the fruit of the Spirit rather than our works?
3. Crucify the Flesh and Follow the Spirit
Paul says, “those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
We are not called to manage, excuse, or peacefully coexist with our flesh. We are called to put it to death. Because we belong to Christ and His Spirit lives within us, we have been given new life and a new way to walk.
Paul concludes, “If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.”
Walking by the Spirit means allowing God to lead. We follow where He leads, surrender where He confronts us, and refuse to move in a direction contrary to Him.
If we live by the Spirit, we must also allow the Spirit to lead our lives.
Questions:
Is there something in your life you have been managing that God is calling you to crucify?
What makes us reluctant to put the desires of our flesh to death?
What does “keeping in step with the Spirit” look like in your everyday life?
Where is God’s Spirit calling you to surrender and follow Him this week?
Week 11 – Freedom, Love & Satisfaction
Galatians 5:13–15
In Galatians 5:13–15, Paul continues explaining what it means to live in the freedom Christ has provided. Christian freedom is not freedom to live however we want. We have been freed from sin and from striving to make ourselves right with God so that we can live according to God’s design.
We are called to use our freedom to love and serve others, and to remain satisfied in Christ rather than consuming others to satisfy ourselves.
1. Freedom Has a Purpose
Paul says, “Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
The flesh is life lived apart from and in opposition to God. Christian freedom is not freedom for ourselves—it is freedom to live for God.
We can take what Christ has accomplished and misuse it, treating freedom as permission to pursue our own desires rather than God's will.
Questions:
What are some ways we can misuse our freedom?
Where are you most tempted to use your freedom for yourself rather than for God?
2. Freedom Is Lived Through Love
Paul says, “through love serve one another.” He then explains that the whole law is fulfilled in loving our neighbor as ourselves.
We naturally think about ourselves—what we need, want, and desire. Paul calls us to take that natural concern for ourselves and use it as the measure for how we love others.
Christian freedom is not primarily about what I am free to do; it is about who I am now free to love and serve.
Questions:
What makes loving and serving others difficult?
What does “love your neighbor as yourself” look like practically?
Who is someone God may be calling you to love or serve right now?
What would change if you intentionally sought the good of others this week?
3. Freedom Is Sustained by Satisfaction in Christ
Paul warns that if we “bite and devour one another,” we may ultimately be consumed by one another.
When we are not satisfied, we begin looking for other ways to satisfy our desires. We can become selfish, controlling, jealous, angry, or demanding—even toward people in the church.
But God has provided everything we ultimately need in Christ. Jesus is the fullness of God's love, grace, kindness, and compassion.
When Christ is enough, we don't need to consume others to satisfy ourselves.
Jesus says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” — Matthew 5:6
Questions:
What are you currently looking to for satisfaction?
How can dissatisfaction affect the way we treat others?
Where are you tempted to believe something other than Jesus will satisfy you?
What would it look like to hunger and thirst for Christ this week?"
Week 10 – Freedom Provided, Protected & Practiced
Galatians 5:1–6
In Galatians 5:1–6, Paul declares one of the great truths of the gospel: “For freedom Christ has set us free.” Biblical freedom is not simply the ability to do whatever we want. It is freedom from the slavery of sin and from striving to make ourselves right with God.
Christ provides our freedom, we are called to protect that freedom, and through the Spirit, by faith, and through love, we learn to practice that freedom.
1. Freedom Is Provided
Paul begins with what Christ has already accomplished: “Christ has set us free.” Our freedom is not something we purchase, accomplish, or achieve. Jesus lived the life we could not live, died the death we deserved, and rose again so that we could have new and eternal life with Him.
Questions:
How would you describe biblical freedom in your own words?
Why are we tempted to believe we need to earn or add something to what Christ has accomplished?
How does knowing that Christ has already provided our freedom change the way we relate to God?
2. Freedom Must Be Protected
Paul commands believers to “stand firm” and refuse to submit again to a yoke of slavery. We don't work in order to earn freedom—we stand firm because Christ has already made us free.
Following Jesus will not always feel natural or comfortable. There will be competing voices, desires, and beliefs attempting to pull us away from dependence upon Christ.
Questions:
What does it practically look like to “stand firm” in your faith?
What are some things that can pull Christians back toward slavery?
Where are you most tempted to look for something other than Christ to satisfy or justify you?
Why is protecting our freedom sometimes difficult or uncomfortable?
3. Freedom Is Practiced Through the Spirit and by Faith
Paul says, “through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.” The Christian life is not sustained by our own strength. God's Spirit works within us, reminding us of God's Word, convicting us, directing us, and teaching us how to walk in the freedom Christ has provided.
Our response is faith—trusting that Christ is enough and believing that His way is better.
Questions:
How does the Holy Spirit help us walk in freedom?
What does it look like to respond by faith when your desires are pulling you in another direction?
Where are you currently struggling to believe that Jesus is better?
What would trusting Christ in that area look like this week?
4. Freedom Is Practiced Through Love
Paul says what ultimately matters is “faith working through love.”
Love is a central motivator that moves us to action. What we love shapes what we pursue, what we sacrifice for, what we protect, and ultimately how we live.
The problem is not simply that we love bad things. Often, we love good things in the wrong order. Freedom comes as the Spirit reorders our desires so that we increasingly love God above everything else and begin wanting what we were created to want.
Questions:
What do your time, attention, money, and decisions reveal about what you love?
What good things are you tempted to love more than God?
Where might comfort, approval, money, pleasure, or self-interest be competing with obedience to God?
How does loving God first help us properly love ourselves and others?
Closing Thought
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”
— Galatians 5:1
Freedom is not finally getting to do whatever I want. Freedom is finally being free to want what I was created for.
Christ provides our freedom.
We protect our freedom by standing firm.
We practice our freedom through the Spirit, by faith, working through love.
The question is: What has your love—and is the Spirit reordering your loves around Christ?
Week 9 – Life Given, Life Lived
Galatians 4:21–31
In Galatians 4:21–31, Paul uses the story of Hagar and Sarah to illustrate two ways of living: life according to human effort and life according to God's promise. Ishmael represents what is produced by the flesh, while Isaac represents what God accomplishes through His promise.
This points us to the gospel: new life is not something we manufacture—it is something God gives through His grace in Christ. And because God gives us life, He is also the One who should lead how we live it.
1. Life Is Given, Not Manufactured
Isaac was the fulfillment of God's promise, not the product of human ability. In the same way, our new life in Christ comes through God's grace, not our accomplishments.
Questions:
Why do we tend to rely on our own efforts?
What does it mean to receive life rather than manufacture it?
How does grace change the way we view our relationship with God?
2. If God Gives Us Life, He Leads Our Lives
Paul says believers are “children of promise.” We don't live by the flesh, under the law, or according to our own abilities. We are fully dependent upon God and called to be led by Him.
Questions:
What does it look like to be led by God?
What voices or influences compete with God's authority in your life?
What area of your life do you struggle to surrender to Him?
3. What Has Access Has Authority
What we repeatedly watch, hear, consume, and give our attention to can begin shaping our lives. “If you give it access, you give it authority.”
Questions:
What currently has the most access to your life?
Is anything influencing you in a way that pulls you away from Christ?
What might you need to limit or remove?
4. Don't Fall to the First Defeat
Spiritual destruction often begins with something that seems small. We convince ourselves, “It won't go that far.” Paul challenges us to recognize those influences early and cut them off before they gain greater authority.
Questions:
Why are small compromises so dangerous?
What are some common “first defeats”?
Is there something you need to confront before it grows?
Closing Thought
“So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman.”
— Galatians 4:31
God gives us life. God leads our lives.
The question is: What are you allowing to influence the life God has given you?
Week 8 – A Pastor's Plea: Christ Formed in You
Galatians 4:12–20
In Galatians 4:12–20, Paul shifts from theological argument to heartfelt appeal. Having defended the gospel of grace, he now speaks as a loving pastor pleading with people he deeply loves. He reminds the Galatians of their close relationship, how they once received him with joy, and how quickly they had allowed false teachers to turn them away from the truth.
Paul's concern is not merely that they have adopted bad doctrine—it is that they are drifting from Christ Himself. The legalists had flattered them, appealed to their pride, and convinced them that God's favor could be earned through religious performance. Paul longs to see them return to the freedom of the gospel.
This passage ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. Christ did not die merely to make us religious. He died so that He might be formed in us. The Christian life is not about external rule-keeping, but inward transformation by the grace of God through the Holy Spirit.
1. Gospel Ministry Is Rooted in Loving Relationships
Paul reminds the Galatians how they once welcomed him with love and gratitude. Even during his physical weakness, they cared for him and received him as though he were Christ Himself.
Healthy gospel ministry is built on genuine love, humility, and relationships—not merely sharing information.
Questions:
Why do you think Paul begins this section by reminding the Galatians of their relationship?
How does genuine love strengthen our ability to speak difficult truths?
Why is relationship so important in discipleship?
Who has been a faithful spiritual influence in your life?
2. Truth Sometimes Makes Us Uncomfortable
Paul asks a painful question:
"Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?" (Galatians 4:16)
The false teachers made the Galatians feel important while leading them away from Christ. Paul loved them enough to tell them the truth, even when it risked damaging the relationship. Truth spoken in love is one of God's greatest gifts.
Questions:
Why do people often resist correction even when it is given in love?
Have you ever grown spiritually because someone lovingly confronted you?
What is the difference between harsh criticism and loving correction?
How can we become people who both speak and receive truth well?
3. Legalism Promises Life but Steals Joy
The false teachers were zealous—but for the wrong reasons. They desired followers for themselves rather than followers of Christ. Legalism shifts our focus from a relationship with Jesus to religious performance.
We are accepted because of Christ, not because of our ability to keep rules.
Questions:
What are some modern forms of legalism in the church?
Why is it tempting to measure spiritual maturity by outward behavior alone?
How can religious activity become a substitute for knowing Jesus?
What helps you keep your relationship with Christ at the center of your faith?
4. Christ Must Be Formed in Us
Paul describes himself as being "in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you." His greatest desire was not simply that the Galatians believe correct doctrine, but that they increasingly resemble Jesus.
This is God's goal for every believer. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, Christ is continually shaping us into His image. Spiritual maturity is not merely knowing more about Jesus—it is becoming more like Him.
Questions:
What does it mean for Christ to be formed in someone?
How is transformation different from simply trying harder to obey?
In what areas of your life do you see Christ shaping you today?
How can your small group encourage one another toward Christlikeness?
Week 7 – The God Who Saves
Galatians 4:1–7
In Galatians 4:1–7, Paul moves from the doctrine of sonship to the work of the Triune God in accomplishing our salvation. Last week we learned that through faith in Christ we have become sons and heirs. This week Paul explains how that became possible.
At the fullness of time, God the Father sent His Son into the world to redeem those under the Law so that we might receive adoption as sons. Then, because we are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, enabling us to cry, "Abba! Father!"
This passage reveals both the beauty of the gospel and the beauty of our God. The Father planned our redemption, the Son accomplished it, and the Holy Spirit applies it to our hearts. Through Christ we are no longer slaves but sons—and if sons, then heirs through God.
1. The Triune God Accomplishes Our Salvation
Paul reveals the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the work of redemption. The Father sends, the Son redeems, and the Spirit dwells within believers. Salvation is not the work of one Person of the Trinity acting independently, but the unified work of the one true God.
The Father planned redemption before the foundation of the world. The Son willingly entered history to accomplish the Father's will. The Spirit applies Christ's finished work to the hearts of God's people.
Our salvation is entirely God's work from beginning to end.
Questions:
What does this passage teach us about the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
Why is it significant that Paul emphasizes that God sent both the Son and the Spirit?
How does seeing salvation as the work of the Triune God strengthen your confidence in the gospel?
Which Person of the Trinity do you tend to think about least? How does this passage encourage a fuller understanding of God?
2. God's Redemption Happens According to His Perfect Timing
Paul begins with the words, "But when the fullness of time had come..."
Nothing in God's plan happens by accident or delay. Christ came exactly when the Father determined. His birth, His obedience under the Law, His redeeming death, our adoption into God's family, and the giving of the Holy Spirit all unfold according to God's perfect purpose and timing.
God's plan is never late and never early.
Because He rules over time, believers can trust Him even when His timing differs from their own expectations.
Questions:
What does Paul mean by "the fullness of time"?
How does God's perfect timing encourage you during seasons of waiting?
Why is it often difficult to trust God's timing instead of our own?
Can you think of a time when you later recognized God's perfect timing in your life?
3. We Have Been Redeemed and Adopted as Sons
Christ was born under the Law so that He could redeem those who were under the Law.
Redemption means Christ paid the price necessary to set sinners free from slavery to sin and condemnation. But God did not stop at our freedom. Through Christ He welcomed us into His own family through adoption.
Paul intentionally uses the language of sons because, in the Roman world, sons possessed the full legal rights and inheritance of the family. Through faith in Christ, every believer—male and female alike—receives the complete privileges of God's household.
We are not merely forgiven servants; we are beloved sons and heirs.
Questions:
What is the difference between being redeemed and being adopted?
Why do you think Paul moves from freedom to family?
How does knowing you have been adopted change the way you relate to God?
What areas of your life still reveal a "slave mentality" instead of the confidence of a son or daughter?
4. The Spirit Assures Us That We Belong to God
Because we are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"
The Holy Spirit does more than teach us facts about God. He awakens our hearts to know, love, trust, and delight in our heavenly Father. He assures believers that they belong to God and produces within them an intimate confidence to approach Him.
Our relationship with God is not merely intellectual—it is personal.
The Spirit continually reminds us that we are no longer slaves living in fear, but beloved children who belong to the Father.
Questions:
What does it mean to cry, "Abba! Father"?
How does the Holy Spirit help believers experience their relationship with God?
How is knowing about God different from personally knowing Him?
In what ways have you experienced God's presence and faithfulness in everyday life?
5. We No Longer Live as Slaves but as Heirs
Paul concludes with one of the greatest declarations of the gospel:
"So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God."
Because of Christ, our identity has completely changed. We are no longer defined by guilt, fear, performance, or the condemnation of the Law. We belong to God's family and possess an eternal inheritance that can never be taken away.
The Christian life is no longer lived trying to earn God's acceptance but resting in the finished work of Christ while joyfully walking with our Father.
Questions:
According to Paul, what has changed about our identity?
What does it mean to live like an heir instead of a slave?
How should our identity as God's sons and daughters shape our daily decisions?
What truth from this passage most encourages you this week?
Week 6 – From Guardian to Son
Galatians 3:23–29
In Galatians 3:23–29, Paul explains the purpose of God's Law in His plan of redemption. Before Christ came, the Law served as a guardian over Israel. It protected, instructed, and prepared God's people until the promised Messiah would arrive.
But now Christ has come.
Those who place their faith in Jesus are no longer under the guardian because they have become sons of God through faith. Through Christ we receive a new identity, are clothed in Him through faith, and become heirs of God's promise to Abraham.
This passage ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. The Law was never meant to save God's people—it was given to preserve them, prepare them, and point them to Christ. Now that Christ has come, we no longer live under the guardian, but as sons and daughters who belong to the family of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
1. The Law Was Given to Protect and Prepare
Before faith in Christ was revealed, God's people were held under the Law. Paul describes the Law as a guardian (paidagōgos)—an authorized overseer responsible for protecting, disciplining, and training a child until maturity.
The Law was never God's final plan of salvation. It was His gracious provision to preserve Israel, prepare them for the coming Messiah, and reveal their need for a Savior.
The guardian gives way to Christ.
Questions:
What does Paul mean when he calls the Law a "guardian"?
How did the Law protect and prepare Israel for the coming of Christ?
Why is it important to understand that the Law was not given as a means of salvation?
How does the Old Testament help us better understand the person and work of Jesus?
2. Christ Brings Us Into God's Family
When Christ came, the role of the guardian was complete. We are no longer under the Law as our guardian because we have become sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul's use of "sons" is not about biological gender but about inheritance and status. In Christ, every believer—male and female alike—receives the full privileges of God's family and becomes a co-heir with Christ.
Our identity is no longer rooted in our accomplishments, but in Christ's finished work.
Questions:
What changed when Christ came?
Why does Paul emphasize "sons of God" instead of simply "children of God"?
How does knowing you belong to God's family change the way you view yourself?
In what ways are you tempted to find your identity somewhere other than Christ?
3. In Christ We Receive a New Identity
Paul reminds believers that those who have been baptized into Christ have "put on Christ." Just as baptism symbolizes being completely covered by the waters, believers are completely covered by Christ.
Because we belong to Christ, our primary identity is no longer found in our nationality, occupation, social status, gender, or accomplishments. Those are good gifts from God, but they all live beneath the greater reality that we belong to Jesus.
Our relationship with Christ shapes every other part of our lives.
Questions:
What does it mean to "put on Christ"?
Why does Paul list distinctions such as Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female?
How should our identity in Christ shape the way we view our careers, families, politics, and personal ambitions?
Is there an area of your life where another identity has become more important than your identity in Christ?
4. We Live as Heirs of God's Promise
Paul concludes by reminding believers that those who belong to Christ are Abraham's offspring and heirs according to the promise.
God's covenant with Abraham has been fulfilled through Jesus Christ. By faith, believers become part of God's family and receive the inheritance He promised—not because of obedience to the Law, but because of Christ's obedience on our behalf.
As heirs of God's kingdom, we now live beneath the banner of our belonging to Him, trusting His Spirit to lead us and shape us into the image of Christ.
Questions:
What does it mean to be an heir according to God's promise?
How does belonging to Christ unite believers from every background?
What responsibilities come with being members of God's family?
How can remembering your eternal inheritance encourage you during difficult seasons of life?
Week 5 – From Curse to Blessing
Galatians 3:10–14
In Galatians 3:10–14, Paul contrasts two vastly different ways of approaching God. One is through the Law, where every failure places us under God's righteous curse. The other is through Jesus Christ, who bore that curse in our place so that we might receive the blessing promised to Abraham.
The Law reveals God's holiness and exposes humanity's inability to achieve righteousness. Left to ourselves, we stand condemned because none of us has perfectly obeyed God's commands. But God, in His mercy, did not leave us beneath the curse. Christ willingly became our substitute, bearing the judgment we deserved so that we might receive the righteousness we could never earn.
Through Christ's atoning work, believers are not only forgiven but welcomed into the covenant promises of God. Having been redeemed from the curse, we receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith—the very presence of God dwelling within His people.
Ultimately, this passage points us to Jesus Christ. He became the curse we deserved so that we might receive the blessing we could never earn.
1. The Curse Reveals Our Need for Christ
Paul begins by reminding the Galatians that everyone who relies upon the Law for righteousness stands under a curse because no one perfectly keeps God's commands. Rather than saving us, the Law exposes our sin and demonstrates our desperate need for a Savior.
The problem is not that God's Law is flawed—the problem is that we are.
The Law serves as a mirror, revealing our guilt and showing us that we cannot save ourselves.
Questions:
Why can the Law never justify a sinner before God?
How does God's holiness make our sin more evident?
Why do people naturally believe they can earn God's acceptance?
How has the Law helped you better understand your need for Christ?
2. Christ Became the Curse in Our Place
Paul declares that Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us.
At the cross, Jesus willingly bore the judgment our sins deserved. Though He was perfectly righteous, He took upon Himself the curse reserved for guilty sinners so that God's justice would be satisfied and His mercy freely extended to all who believe.
The cross displays both the holiness of God and the love of God.
Questions:
What does it mean that Christ "became a curse for us"?
Why was substitution necessary for our salvation?
How does the cross reveal both God's justice and His mercy?
How should Christ's sacrifice shape the way we view our own sin?
3. The Blessing Comes Through Faith Alone
Because Christ bore the curse, believers receive the blessing promised to Abraham.
This blessing is not earned by obedience to the Law but received through faith in Christ alone. Through faith, God declares sinners righteous, welcomes them into His covenant family, and fulfills His promise to bless all nations through Abraham's offspring—Jesus Christ.
Salvation has always been by grace through faith.
Questions:
What is the "blessing of Abraham" that Paul describes?
Why is justification by faith central to the gospel?
How does God's promise to Abraham find its fulfillment in Christ?
Why is it important to remember that salvation is received, not achieved?
4. The Spirit Is the Gift of the Gospel
Paul concludes by saying that through Christ we receive "the promised Spirit through faith."
The blessing of the gospel is not merely forgiveness, eternal life, or freedom from judgment—though all of those are gloriously true. The climax of redemption is that God gives His own Spirit to dwell within His people.
Through the Holy Spirit, believers know God as Father, are assured of His love, empowered for obedience, and brought into communion with Him.
Everything the curse separated us from has been restored in Christ.
Questions:
Why does Paul identify the Holy Spirit as part of Abraham's promised blessing?
How does the Holy Spirit help us know and enjoy God?
What difference is there between knowing about God and knowing God personally?
How does the Spirit empower believers to live in the freedom Christ purchased?
Week 4 – Life in the Spirit
Galatians 3:1–6
In Galatians 3:1–6, Paul confronts the Galatian believers for turning away from the sufficiency of Jesus Christ and beginning to rely on their own efforts. Although they had received the Holy Spirit through faith, they were being persuaded that spiritual maturity could now be accomplished through human works.
Paul reminds them that the Christian life begins with the work of God's Spirit and continues through the work of God's Spirit. Just as we are saved by grace through faith, we are also sanctified by grace through faith. Believers are not called to depend upon themselves but to continually depend upon Christ through the Holy Spirit.
Ultimately, this passage points us to Jesus Christ. Through His death, resurrection, and the gift of His Spirit, Christ not only saves His people but continues His work in them as they walk by faith.
1. Begun by the Spirit
Paul reminds the Galatians that they received the Holy Spirit not by keeping the Law but by hearing the gospel and responding in faith. Their salvation was entirely God's work from beginning to end.
The same Spirit who brought them from death to life now dwells within every believer, making God known, transforming them into the image of Christ, and empowering them to live for His glory.
Questions:
What does Paul mean when he asks, "Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith?"
Why is it important to remember that salvation is God's work rather than our own?
How does understanding the ministry of the Holy Spirit give us confidence in our walk with Christ?
In what ways are you tempted to take credit for what only God can accomplish?
2. Depending on the Spirit
Paul asks, "Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?"
The Christian life is not sustained by human effort but by continual dependence upon God's Spirit. While believers are called to pursue holiness with discipline and obedience, our growth is never produced by self-reliance. Sanctification is the ongoing work of God as we daily trust and follow Him.
Whenever we begin depending upon ourselves instead of the Spirit, we begin living according to the flesh.
Questions:
What does Paul mean by "the flesh" in this passage?
Why is self-reliance such a danger for followers of Jesus?
What is the difference between spiritual discipline and trying to earn God's approval?
Where do you find yourself relying more on your own strength than upon God's Spirit?
3. Continuing by Faith
Paul concludes by reminding the Galatians that everything God has done among them—including giving His Spirit and working miracles—has come through faith rather than works. He then points to Abraham, who "believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness."
From the beginning, God's people have always been made right with Him through faith. The Christian life begins by faith, continues by faith, and will one day be completed by God's faithfulness.
Our confidence is never in our own obedience but in the finished work of Jesus Christ and the continuing work of His Spirit.
Questions:
Why does Paul point to Abraham as an example of faith?
What does it look like to live by faith every day rather than relying on yourself?
What are some ways Christians today can subtly begin trusting in their own performance instead of Christ?
How can our group encourage one another to remain dependent upon God's Spirit this week?
Week 3 – Union with Christ
Galatians 2:20–21
In Galatians 2:20–21, Paul gives one of the clearest descriptions of the Christian life found anywhere in Scripture. Through faith, believers are united with Jesus Christ in His death and resurrection. The old life ruled by sin has been crucified with Christ, and a new life has begun—one in which Christ Himself lives within His people.
Paul reminds the Galatians that salvation is not found through human effort or obedience to the Law, but through faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. Because we are united to Christ, we are no longer defined by our past, our failures, or our accomplishments. Our identity, purpose, and hope are found in Him alone.
Ultimately, this passage points us to Jesus Christ. Through His death, resurrection, and abiding presence, Christ gives believers both a new identity and a new life.
1. Crucified with Christ
Paul begins by declaring, "I have been crucified with Christ." Through faith, believers are united with Christ in His death. His sacrifice on the cross was not merely an event we observe, but a work in which we participate through union with Him.
Because Christ died for our sin, our old self—the life enslaved to sin—has been put to death. The cross reminds us both of the seriousness of our sin and the greatness of God's love.
Questions:
What does Paul mean when he says, "I have been crucified with Christ"?
Why is it important to understand that Jesus willingly died for our sin?
In what ways does the cross reveal both the seriousness of sin and the greatness of God's grace?
How should our union with Christ shape the way we view our old life?
2. Christ Lives in Me
Paul continues, "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me."
Through our oneness with Christ, believers have both a new calling and a new capacity to live in obedience to God. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, enabling us to turn from sin and pursue righteousness.
The Christian life is not lived by our own strength, but by the life of Christ at work within us.
Questions:
What does it mean that Christ lives in every believer?
How does union with Christ give us victory over the power of sin?
Why is the Christian life impossible apart from the work of Christ in us?
What area of your life is God calling you to surrender more fully to Him?
3. Living by Faith in the Son of God
Paul concludes by saying, "The life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
The Christian life begins by faith, continues by faith, and ends by faith. Our confidence is not in our own righteousness, but in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Paul closes this section by warning that if righteousness could be obtained through the Law, then Christ died for no purpose. To seek acceptance with God through anything other than Christ is to reject the grace of God.
Questions:
What does it mean to live by faith every day?
How does remembering that Christ loved you and gave Himself for you encourage your walk with God?
What are some ways people are tempted to find their identity or righteousness apart from Christ?
How can we guard against "nullifying the grace of God" by trusting in our own efforts instead of Christ?
Week 2 – A Gospel from God
Galatians 1:11–24
In Galatians 1:11–24, Paul defends the gospel by declaring that it did not originate with man, but came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. Paul's own life bears witness to the power of this gospel. Once a persecutor of the church, he was transformed by the grace of God and became a preacher of the faith he once tried to destroy.
This passage reminds us that salvation is not the result of human effort or religious achievement. God has revealed Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ, and through Christ we are brought into relationship with God.
Ultimately, this text points us to Jesus. The gospel is God's gospel. Christ reveals Himself, changes lives by His grace, and receives all the glory.
1. The Gospel Comes from God, Not Man
Paul makes it clear that the gospel he preached was not invented or taught by men. It came directly through the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Because the gospel belongs to God, it cannot be improved, completed, or replaced by human ideas or religious systems.
Questions:
Why is it important that the gospel originates with God and not man?
Why are people naturally tempted to add something to Christ?
What are some modern examples of man-made religion competing with the gospel?
How does knowing that salvation is God's work bring confidence and assurance?
2. The Grace of God Changes Everything
Paul's testimony demonstrates the power of God's grace. The persecutor became a preacher. The enemy of the church became one of its greatest servants.
Paul did not find Jesus; Jesus found Paul.
Jesus is not merely an addition to our lives—He changes everything. The gospel transforms our desires, priorities, relationships, and ultimately the direction of our lives.
Questions:
Why is Paul's testimony such a powerful example of God's grace?
How does Paul's story give hope to people who seem far from God?
In what ways has the gospel changed your life?
Is there an area of your life where Christ is calling you to deeper obedience?
3. God Receives the Glory
The churches in Judea had never met Paul personally. They simply heard:
"He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy."
And they glorified God.
The purpose of salvation is ultimately the glory of God. Our lives are testimonies meant to point others to Him.
Questions:
Why did the churches glorify God instead of Paul?
What does your testimony reveal about the grace of God?
How can we be tempted to seek glory for ourselves rather than giving glory to God?
How can your life help others worship Christ?
Week 1 – Set Free to Live Free
Galatians 1:1–10
In Galatians 1:1–10, Paul begins his letter by reminding the churches of Galatia that the gospel he preached did not originate with man, but with Jesus Christ Himself. God had rescued His people through the death and resurrection of Christ, setting them free from sin and from the present evil age.
Yet shortly after receiving the gospel, the Galatians were turning away from Christ and embracing a distorted message. False teachers had convinced them that faith in Jesus was not enough—that obedience to the law must be added to the finished work of Christ.
Paul responds with astonishment and urgency. There is not another gospel. Salvation is found in Christ alone.
This passage ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Christ has set us free. We are not set free from obedience, but set free to obey—not in order to be accepted by God, but because we have already been accepted through faith in Christ.
1. The Gospel Comes From God, Not Man
Paul begins by defending his apostleship and reminding the Galatians that the gospel he proclaimed was not invented by men. The risen Christ Himself called Paul and commissioned him to preach the good news.
The gospel is God's message, not man's message.
Questions:
Why is it important that the gospel originates with God and not human wisdom?
How does Paul's conversion in Acts 9 demonstrate the grace and power of God?
Why do people often prefer a religion they can control rather than a gospel they must receive?
How does remembering God's grace toward Paul encourage us in our own walk with Christ?
2. Christ Has Set Us Free
Paul reminds the Galatians that Jesus gave Himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age.
Through Christ, believers have been set free. But Christian freedom is not freedom from obedience—it is freedom to obey.
We obey because we are already accepted by God, not in order to earn His acceptance.
Questions:
What kinds of slavery does Christ free His people from?
Why is there a difference between obeying to be accepted and obeying because we are accepted?
How can religious performance become a form of bondage?
In what ways have you experienced the freedom that comes through the gospel?
3. Adding to the Gospel Leads Us Away from Christ
Paul is astonished that the Galatians are turning away from Christ so quickly. To add anything to Jesus as the basis of salvation is to abandon the gospel itself.
Jesus plus anything is no longer the gospel.
Faith plus works, Jesus plus morality, Jesus plus tradition, or Jesus plus personal achievement all distort the good news.
Questions:
Why do you think people are naturally drawn toward adding something to the gospel?
What are some modern examples of "Jesus plus ______"?
Why is Paul so strong in his response to false teaching?
How can we guard our hearts from drifting away from the simplicity of Christ?
4. The Gospel Calls Us to Live for God's Approval, Not Man's
Paul concludes by asking whether he seeks the approval of man or the approval of God. A servant of Christ cannot make pleasing people the ultimate goal.
The gospel frees us from living for the acceptance and approval of others.
Because we belong to Christ, we are free to live for Him.
Questions:
Why is it so easy to seek the approval of people?
How can the fear of man distort our faith and obedience?
What would change in your life if pleasing Christ became your highest priority?
Is there an area of your life where you need to stand firm in the freedom Christ has given you?