14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. Galatians 6:14, 15
Chapter 6. Living the New Life
1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load. 6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 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. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Believers are given the freedom by God to respond to the Spirit or to the sinful nature.
If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Sprit should have supportive concern that accepts and loves while encouraging a commitment to righteousness. It is a burden to have immature Christians among us. But when we carry each other’s burdens by unconditional love, we fulfill the law of Christ.
It is important, however, to avoid excusing sin. Each of us should test our actions. A person who sins is not getting away with something, and thus mocking God. The believer who misuses his or her freedom, and lives by the impulses of the sinful nature, will experience alienation and the emptiness always associated with death. The person who seeks to please the Spirit will know the enriching gifts which are the mark of eternal life.
Man’s inner transformation is never accomplished suddenly. It involves growth. Thus the encouragement to not become weary in well doing is important.
New Creation
God has planted his new life within. As we live out our relationship with the Sprit of God, that new life will become full and strong.
11 See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!
12 Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. 14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to the Israel of God.
17 From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.
