As I dig into the book of Galatians, I find that Galatians 5 and 6 says just so much but often we notice so little about it. We often keep referring to the famous verses relating to the fruit of the spirit, reaping a harvest if we do not give up, but in the discussion on circumcision which really is the context of these famous verses there is so much that is revealed.
Galatians 5:5-6
For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.
Circumcision is primarily a ritual, associated with the old covenant and keeping the Law, associated with the works instead of grace. Hence even though we do not see circumcision practiced among Christians nowadays, the words here still remain highly relavant in our modern day context. The rituals and all the traditions and works don't count for anything, but only faith working through love.
Galatians 6:13-15
For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.
To further emphasize the point, and to discuss about the outward facade of circumcision versus the inward renewal in the form of a new creation. It is not enough to live an outwardly appealing Christian life, for it is the cross that matters. Far be it from me to boast except in the cross.
Galatians 5:16-17
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.
The key to overcoming our fleshly desires, our sin, is not to sin less, but to walk in the spirit. It is not to occupy yourself with trying to not sin but to focus on God. We put off our old self and not just that, we put on our new selves in replacement, for we shall never overcome if we leave but a void behind.
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