Galatians 5:16-26 (NKJV)
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who PRACTICE such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
CG Discussion Points
- Explain how we can have peace with God and not in fear when we face the righteous God with reference to the law and Jesus. Discuss the truths about God that can help us keep the peace that rules in our heart. (Rom 5:1; 1 John 4:18; John 14:26-27; 2 Pet 1:2-3)
- What does the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds mean for you when you are troubled with fear or anxiety? Discuss how God wants us to prosper over flesh by pursuing peace in our lifestyle practices and relationship with people. (Phil 4:6-8; 3 John 1:2; Gal 5:19-26)\
- Discuss how it is within our ability and power to have peaceful relationship with people who may have done wrong to us, in the family, at work, or in church. Explain why spiritual maturity should be measured by the fruit of the Holy Spirit we exhibit rather than the spiritual gifts. (Rom 12:17-19; 2 Cor 6:14; Heb 13:17; Rom 13:1-3)