Self-Control (Archived)
Galatians 5 – Freedom in Christ
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Galatians Chapter 5 begins with the powerful declaration: “For freedom, Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1).
Paul emphasizes in verse 2 that accepting circumcision will render Christ of no value, because it obligates individuals to keep the entire law. In fact, those who seek justification through the law are severed from Christ and have fallen from grace. “For through the Spirit by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.” (Galatians 5:5).
Paul continues to explain that in Christ, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters, but only faith working through love (Galatians 5:6). He addresses those who were once faithful, asking, “Who hindered you from obeying the truth?” (Galatians 5:7). The apostle affirms that the persuasion to follow legalistic practices does not come from God, and warns that a little leaven (sin) can corrupt the whole lump (Galatians 5:9).
Paul remains confident that those who are troubling the Galatians will face punishment, but if he still preached circumcision, why would he face persecution? If he did, the offense of the cross would no longer exist (Galatians 5:11).
Paul uses strong language to defend the Gospel, wishing those who unsettle others would take drastic action to understand the weight of their legalistic views (Galatians 5:12).
In verse 13, Paul reminds believers that freedom in Christ should not be used as an opportunity for the flesh, but to serve one another through love. “For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:14). However, he warns against divisions and destructive behavior, urging them to walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:15-16).
