The Law Of Christ (Galatians 6)

Should we treat each other gently, with the undeserved kindness that we have received from God? Is the law of Christ fulfilled when we bear each other’s burdens? Let’s see.

How should we try to restore a wayward friend?

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. (Galatians 6:1 ESV)

Is the law of Christ different to the law of Moses? How can we fulfill it?

Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2 HCSB)

What about those who think they are better than others, too good to fall into sin?

For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. (Galatians 6:3 KJV)

Is comparing ourselves to others wise?

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct. (Galatians 6:4-5 NLT)

Should we share with our teachers?

The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him. (Galatians 6:6 NASB)

What is sowing to the Spirit?

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 6:7-10 NIV)

Is there a possible clue to Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” here (2 Corinthians 12:7)?

See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand! (Galatians 6:11 NKJV)

What particular part of the law was Paul wrestling with in Galatia? Where does the cross fit in?

All who want to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they want to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh. (Galatians 6:12-13 NASB)

What did Paul want to boast about?

But as for me, God forbid that I should boast about anything except for the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The world has been crucified to me through him, and I have been crucified to the world. (Galatians 6:14 CEB)

What really matters?

It doesn't matter if you are circumcised or not. All that matters is that you are a new person. If you follow this rule, you will belong to God's true people. God will treat you with undeserved kindness and will bless you with peace. (Galatians 6:15-16 CEV)

Had Paul had quite enough of such talk?

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. (Galatians 6:17-18 ESV)

Let’s treat each other gently, with the undeserved kindness that we have received from God. Should we bear each other’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ? You decide!

Conclusion to Galatians

Paul was an apostle, recognized by the other apostles and his writings were recognized by the church as inspired scripture (2 Peter 3:15-16). The gospel he preached he received by revelation from Jesus Christ. We don’t receive the Holy Spirit by doing the works of the Law but by believing what we heard. As Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness,” so the spiritual children of Abraham, are those who put their faith in God. We are all God’s children through faith in Christ Jesus. People who are trying to be made righteous by the Law have been estranged from Christ. They have fallen away from grace! Are we imprisoned in legalism, the letter of the law or do we live freed in grace? You decide!