Gems in Galatians Part Four - So what is the problem : The Third Issue? by Ps Michael Podhaczky

So, what is the problem?

In this last blog, I will look at the last of the three fundamental issues that, living the life of a Christ follower does not include the self-effort of keeping the Law; rather it is obeying the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is to be a life of faith, hope and revelation in Jesus Christ, not one of legalism, drudgery and guilt.

So, the third issue that Paul dealt with was that the Galatians were to live their lives as Christ followers under the continual influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. There was no room for self-effort in trying to keep the Law. Instead, they were to remain firm, standing in the freedom that they had already received; no longer bound by the Law of Moses. There was not room for a mix of Jesus Christ and the Law. It was not to be a life of Jesus Christ, plus any self-appeasing effort on their part.

Paul clearly pointed out that the only law that was and still is relevant is the law of love, in which the Law of Moses had been fulfilled (Gal 5:14). James also picked up on this matter in his letter and calling it the “royal law” (Jas 2:8), and “law of freedom,” or “the law that sets you free” (Jas 2:12). Therefore, the Law of Moses only cultivated the lust of the flesh with all of its fruit flowing from sin of (Gal 5:13–21). Instead, they were to walk in the power of the Spirit, bearing spiritual and God-glorifying fruit (Gal 5:22-26). In the letter, Paul contrasted the Spirit and the flesh (Gal 4:29; 5:16, 19-22; 6:8).

Pause in His presence for a moment and think this over.