Galatians 5:15
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye bite and devour one another - These Churches seem to have been in a state of great distraction; there were continual altercations among them. They had fallen from the grace of the Gospel; and, as Christ no longer dwelt in their hearts by faith, pride, anger, ill-will, and all unkind and uncharitable tempers, took possession of their souls, and they were in consequence alternately destroying each other. Nothing is so destructive to the peace of man, and to the peace of the soul, as religious disputes; where they prevail, religion in general has little place.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
bite--backbite the character. devour--the substance by injuring, extortion, &c. (Hab 1:13; Mat 23:14; Co2 11:20). consumed, &c.--Strength of soul, health of body, character, and resources, are all consumed by broils [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
This I say then, walk in the Spirit,.... The advice the apostle thinks fit to give, and which he would have observed, is, to "walk in the Spirit", that is, either after the Spirit of God; making the word inspired by him the rule of behaviour, which as it is the standard of faith, so of practice, and is the lamp unto our feet, and the light unto our path; taking him himself for a guide, who not only guides into all truth, but in the way of holiness and righteousness unto the land of uprightness; and depending upon his grace and strength for assistance throughout the whole of our walk and conversation: or in the exercise of the graces of the Spirit of God; as in the exercise of faith upon the person and grace of Christ, of which the Spirit is the author; and in love to God, Christ, and one another, which is a fruit of the Spirit; and in humility, lowliness of mind, meekness and condescension; all which is to walk in the Spirit, or spiritually, and strengthens the argument for love the apostle is upon: and this he encourages to by observing, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh; he does not say there shall be no flesh, nor any lust of the flesh in them if they walk spiritually; or that the flesh should not act and operate in them; or that they should do no sinful action; all which is only true of Christ; and the contrary is to be found and observed in all true Christians, though ever so spiritual; but that they should not fulfil or perfect the lust of the flesh; should not give up themselves entirely to the power and dictates of the flesh, so as to be under it and at its command, and be obedient servants and slaves unto it; for, in this sense only, such that are spiritual do not, commit sin, they do not make a trade of it, it is not their constant employ or course of conversation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:15 The opposite of love is biting and devouring one another (cp. Ps 35:25; Prov 30:14; Jer 8:17). People who do not love are characterized by strife and bitterness. They will end up destroying one another. By contrast, love gives life to others (John 3:16; 15:12-13).
Galatians 5:15
Freedom in Christ
14The entire law is fulfilled in a single decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”15But if you keep on biting and devouring one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Divided Heart
By C.H. Spurgeon17K41:19Spiritual UnityDividedDivided HeartPSA 86:11PRO 4:23HOS 10:2MAT 6:241CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2JAS 1:81JN 1:8C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of a divided heart, emphasizing that such a condition leads to spiritual faultiness both individually and within the church. He warns that a divided heart is a grievous disease that affects the whole person, causing unhappiness, inconsistency, and hypocrisy. Spurgeon illustrates that this division not only hinders personal faith but also weakens the church's collective strength against evil. He calls for unity of heart in serving God, urging listeners to examine their own hearts and seek true devotion. Ultimately, he offers hope for those with broken hearts, inviting them to trust in Christ for healing and salvation.
Taranaki Bible Conference January 19-2012 - 3 of 5 Sermons
By Keith Daniel1.0K1:14:34Bible ConferenceDEU 27:16PRO 15:17PRO 19:13PRO 19:26MAT 12:25ROM 1:30GAL 5:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of finding Christ in a home. He emphasizes the importance of free will and how it can affect one's relationship with God. The preacher quotes various Bible verses to support his points, including Romans 1:30 which condemns disobedient children. He also shares personal experiences of witnessing the destructive behavior of defiant and cruel individuals, cautioning against disregarding the authority of parents. The sermon concludes with a reference to John Wesley and how his converts were labeled as "new heretics" by the unsaved.
Love the Sinner; Hate the Sin
By Shane Idleman71448:25PSA 51:17HOS 6:6MAT 9:13JHN 4:23ROM 3:23ROM 6:23GAL 5:151TI 1:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance and following Jesus wholeheartedly. It challenges the audience to recognize their need for God's mercy and to prioritize a genuine relationship with Him over religious rituals. The message highlights the significance of worship as a time to connect with God and experience transformation in the heart.
The Dangers of Self Deception Part 1 - an Unbridled Tongue
By Phil Beach Jr.341:29:49Self-DeceptionDeceptionThe Power of TruthPSA 141:3PRO 18:21ISA 53:5MAT 7:1JHN 8:31GAL 5:15EPH 4:25EPH 4:29JAS 1:26REV 3:14Phil Beach Jr. addresses the critical issue of self-deception in the church, emphasizing that one of the most significant dangers believers face is the unbridled tongue, which reflects a lack of restraint and truth. He highlights the importance of recognizing our vulnerability to deception and the necessity of continuing in God's Word to avoid falling into self-deception, as exemplified by the Corinthians and the Laodiceans. The sermon calls for believers to examine their words, actions, attitudes, and associations, urging them to seek deliverance through the application of truth. Beach stresses that truth is the only means to freedom from self-deception, and he encourages a deep, honest engagement with God's Word to expose and address these issues. Ultimately, he invites the congregation to cry out for God's help in overcoming self-deception and to embrace the transformative power of truth.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part 3
By Mike Bickle2347:08RestorationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 4:23MAT 5:23MAT 18:15ROM 12:18GAL 5:15EPH 4:31PHP 2:3COL 3:13JAS 3:13Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility in restoring wounded relationships, drawing from Matthew 5 and 18, which instruct believers to initiate reconciliation regardless of their role in the conflict. He highlights James 3, which delves deeper into the motives behind our actions, urging individuals to recognize how their responses contribute to their own bitterness. Bickle explains that while we may be victims of mistreatment, we also act as agents of our own wounding through jealousy and selfish ambition. He encourages believers to adopt a heavenly perspective, focusing on their own contributions to conflicts rather than solely on the injustices they face. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to respond with gentleness and wisdom to foster healing and peace in relationships.
A Desperate Plea for Unity
By Shane Idleman1348:38Unity in the ChurchOvercoming DivisionPRO 6:16MAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8Shane Idleman passionately addresses the urgent need for unity within the church, drawing from the teachings of 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes that believers, while called to be saints, often struggle with sin and disunity, which can hinder the work of God. Idleman warns against the divisive nature of arguments and debates over non-essential issues, urging the congregation to focus on the essentials of faith and to fight for unity. He highlights that true unity is not about uniformity in opinion but about being united in purpose and love for Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to examine our hearts and attitudes, especially regarding how we treat one another within the body of Christ.
Letters on Revival--No. 19.*
By Charles Finney0Overcoming SectarianismUnity in the ChurchJHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14JAS 3:161PE 3:81JN 4:20Charles Finney addresses the detrimental effects of growing sectarianism within the church, emphasizing that this division hinders the spirit of revival. He warns that ministers and Christians often fail to recognize their own sectarian attitudes, which lead to strife and prejudice rather than unity and love. Finney argues that true revival cannot flourish amidst such discord and urges the church to prioritize brotherly love and the conversion of souls over sectarian disputes. He calls for a self-examination among ministers and believers to ensure they are not contributing to this decline in spiritual fervor. Ultimately, he stresses the need for open-mindedness and a commitment to truth to restore the church's power and communion with God.
Watchman or Gossip? Contentiously Contending - 7
By Anton Bosch0DEU 17:6MAL 1:4MAT 18:16ROM 8:271CO 13:6GAL 5:151TI 5:19REV 12:10Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of reacting to the fall of the wicked with mourning and intercession, rather than delighting in scandal or spreading rumors. He emphasizes the difference between being a watchman who warns of danger and a gossip who enjoys sharing stories of sin and failure. Bosch warns against rushing to accuse and execute others based on rumors, highlighting the need for multiple witnesses and factual evidence before making judgments.
Gathering or Scattering
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Call to GatherUnity in ChristMAT 12:30JHN 11:52JHN 17:21ACT 17:26ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3HEB 10:24JAS 3:18G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the critical choice every individual faces: to gather with Christ or scatter against Him. He reflects on the dangers of indifference in a tolerant society, contrasting the purity of the persecuted Church with the compromises of a patronized Church. Morgan asserts that Jesus' mission was to gather the scattered children of God, and he challenges listeners to evaluate their influence—whether they are contributing to unity or division. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to actively participate in Christ's work of gathering, urging believers to take sides and live out their faith in a way that draws others to Him.
Unity
By K.P. Yohannan0Spiritual WarfareUnityMAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:181CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 6:12PHP 2:2COL 3:13HEB 12:141PE 4:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of unity in serving God, acknowledging that initial excitement can fade as we encounter conflicts and challenges with others. He warns against losing sight of the true battle, which is not against fellow believers but against spiritual forces. The sermon encourages believers to arm themselves with the mindset of Christ, who suffered for us, to maintain unity and perseverance in service. Yohannan reminds us that our struggles often stem from forgetting our true enemy and the spiritual nature of our battles. Ultimately, he calls for a return to a heart of service and unity, grounded in Christ's example.
Defiling the Temple of God
By William MacDonald0Holiness of the AssemblyUnity in the ChurchPRO 6:16MAT 18:15ROM 16:171CO 3:171CO 6:19GAL 5:15EPH 4:31TH 5:11HEB 10:251PE 2:5William MacDonald emphasizes the seriousness of defiling the temple of God, which refers to the local assembly of believers. He explains that Paul warns against those who destroy the unity and holiness of the church, as such actions lead to God's judgment. The sermon highlights the dangers of gossip, factionalism, and personal conflicts within the church, which can lead to its downfall. MacDonald reminds the congregation that both individual believers and the collective assembly are sacred, and tampering with them is a grave offense. Ultimately, he calls for unity and purity within the church to honor its divine purpose.
1 John 3:12
By John Gill0Brotherly LoveHatred and EnvyGEN 4:8MAT 5:22JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:31HEB 11:4JAS 1:201JN 3:121JN 3:15John Gill emphasizes the importance of brotherly love by contrasting it with the hatred exemplified by Cain, who, influenced by evil, murdered his brother Abel out of envy. Gill explains that Cain's actions stemmed from his own wickedness and the acceptance of Abel's righteous sacrifice by God, which incited Cain's jealousy. He warns against allowing such hatred to take root in our hearts, as it leads to destructive actions and a separation from God. The sermon highlights the need for self-examination of our motives and the importance of faith in our works. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to embody love and righteousness, avoiding the path of Cain.
Self-Renunciation and Self-Aggrandizement
By A.B. Simpson0Self-AggrandizementSelf-RenunciationJDG 8:22GAL 2:20GAL 5:15A.B. Simpson's sermon 'Self-Renunciation and Self-Aggrandizement' emphasizes the contrast between self-renunciation, exemplified by Gideon, and self-aggrandizement, represented by his son Abimelech. Simpson illustrates how true greatness in the Christian life comes from serving others rather than seeking personal glory, warning against the dangers of pride and ambition that can corrupt even noble endeavors. He draws parallels between the destructive nature of selfishness and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, urging believers to embrace a life of selfless love and service. The sermon concludes with a call to allow Christ to live through us, transforming our lives from self-centeredness to selflessness.
When Interests Collide
By A.W. Tozer0Conflict ResolutionThe Nature of SinPRO 16:7MAT 5:9ROM 12:18GAL 5:15JAS 4:1A.W. Tozer discusses how personal interests dictate relationships between individuals and nations, emphasizing that harmony exists only when interests align. He argues that human society is structured to serve the majority's interests, and conflicts arise when these interests clash, leading to hostility and war. Tozer highlights that all wars stem from a collision of interests, which he identifies as a manifestation of sin, referencing the biblical inquiry from James about the origins of conflicts.
The Church Grieves the Spirit
By D.L. Moody0Grieving the Holy SpiritUnity in the ChurchPSA 133:1MAT 12:25JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8D.L. Moody emphasizes the detrimental effects of division within the Church, asserting that such schisms and unsound doctrines grieve the Spirit of God. He observes that the Holy Spirit cannot work effectively in a divided congregation and calls for immediate efforts towards unity among believers. Moody suggests that if a minister cannot foster unity, it may be time for them to step aside, as a divided church cannot bear spiritual fruit. He urges the Church to prioritize reconciliation and harmony to allow the Spirit to move freely among them.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye bite and devour one another - These Churches seem to have been in a state of great distraction; there were continual altercations among them. They had fallen from the grace of the Gospel; and, as Christ no longer dwelt in their hearts by faith, pride, anger, ill-will, and all unkind and uncharitable tempers, took possession of their souls, and they were in consequence alternately destroying each other. Nothing is so destructive to the peace of man, and to the peace of the soul, as religious disputes; where they prevail, religion in general has little place.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
bite--backbite the character. devour--the substance by injuring, extortion, &c. (Hab 1:13; Mat 23:14; Co2 11:20). consumed, &c.--Strength of soul, health of body, character, and resources, are all consumed by broils [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
This I say then, walk in the Spirit,.... The advice the apostle thinks fit to give, and which he would have observed, is, to "walk in the Spirit", that is, either after the Spirit of God; making the word inspired by him the rule of behaviour, which as it is the standard of faith, so of practice, and is the lamp unto our feet, and the light unto our path; taking him himself for a guide, who not only guides into all truth, but in the way of holiness and righteousness unto the land of uprightness; and depending upon his grace and strength for assistance throughout the whole of our walk and conversation: or in the exercise of the graces of the Spirit of God; as in the exercise of faith upon the person and grace of Christ, of which the Spirit is the author; and in love to God, Christ, and one another, which is a fruit of the Spirit; and in humility, lowliness of mind, meekness and condescension; all which is to walk in the Spirit, or spiritually, and strengthens the argument for love the apostle is upon: and this he encourages to by observing, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh; he does not say there shall be no flesh, nor any lust of the flesh in them if they walk spiritually; or that the flesh should not act and operate in them; or that they should do no sinful action; all which is only true of Christ; and the contrary is to be found and observed in all true Christians, though ever so spiritual; but that they should not fulfil or perfect the lust of the flesh; should not give up themselves entirely to the power and dictates of the flesh, so as to be under it and at its command, and be obedient servants and slaves unto it; for, in this sense only, such that are spiritual do not, commit sin, they do not make a trade of it, it is not their constant employ or course of conversation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:15 The opposite of love is biting and devouring one another (cp. Ps 35:25; Prov 30:14; Jer 8:17). People who do not love are characterized by strife and bitterness. They will end up destroying one another. By contrast, love gives life to others (John 3:16; 15:12-13).