The Works of the Flesh

INTRODUCTION

Galatians 5 illustrates a profound contrast between two distinct paths of living. One path follows the flesh, manifesting in the sinful behaviors listed in verses 19-21. The other path follows the Spirit, yielding the beautiful virtues outlined in verses 22-23.

As descendants of Adam, we inherit a sinful earthly nature; yet as born- again believers, we receive a new divine nature through Christ. This new nature doesn't eliminate the old one—rather, both natures coexist within us, creating an internal battlefield where opposing desires compete for control of our choices and actions.

Our fleshly nature draws us toward the sinful behaviors listed in Galatians 5:19-21, while our spiritual nature leads us toward the fruit of the Spirit. This conflict creates a deeper, more intense spiritual struggle than we experienced before salvation.