Throw Away the Rules - Galatians 5:16-26

Too often we make a list of rules to live by that make us feel like we're doing ok as Christians. This passage is an appeal to throw away the rules and instead live by the Spirit of God. If you do, certain attitudes will become characteristic of your life. It's a little bit harder work, but it's so much more rewarding than a list of rules.

Galatians 5:16-26
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Questions
1. What rules do you think some "religious" people have that aren't biblical?
2. What sounds like more fun - rule living or Spirit living?
3. What fruits of the Spirit do you see in your life?
4. Do you see anything from the bad list in your life?
5. What part of the passage will you take with you today?

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