Galatians 5:16-26
Battles in the Christian life are not won by willpower,
but by reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Introduction:
If we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, He will transform our character, enabling us to
truly mirror Jesus in the way we treat others, resist temptation, and serve those around us.
Starting Out:
When it comes to getting work done, are you one who “works harder” or one who “works smarter”?
Following up:
What did you do to serve your oikos this week?
Galatians 5:16-26:
1. How do we live out our freedom in a way that denies the flesh instead of succumbing to it? (v.16)
2. How would you define the term “sinful nature” and how is it different from
“walking by the Spirit”? (v.17)
3. What is the difference between “work” and “fruit”?
4. Take a few minutes to contrast the “acts of the flesh” (v.19-21) and the “fruit of the Spirit” (v.22-23)
5. What 2 attributes of Christ-followers does Paul highlight in verses 24 & 25?
Taking It Home:
6. Why do you think God chooses to give us freedom to do what we want with our lives?
7. Which list best describes your life: “works of the flesh” or “fruit of the Spirit?
8. Whenever you see a list like the “works of the flesh” in the Bible do you feel a need to “work harder”
or do you understand the need to further rely on God?
9. How would your life change if you fully relied on the Spirit to produce fruit rather than trying to
work on your own?
Emphasis on Oikos:
10. Are you relying on the Holy Spirit to transform the people in your Oikos?
Other Scriptures to engage with this week:
1 Corinthians 6:12-20 • Proverbs 20 • Ephesians 6:10-20 • John 14:5-14 • Nehemiah 8:1-10 • Psalm 104:1-18