Galatians 5:17
Verse
Context
Walking by the Spirit
16So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.17For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want.18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit - God still continues to strive with you, notwithstanding your apostasy, showing you whence you have fallen, and exciting you to return to him; but your own obstinacy renders all ineffectual; and through the influence of these different principles, you are kept in a state of self-opposition and self-distraction, so that you cannot do the things that ye would. You are convinced of what is right, and ye wish to do it; but, having abandoned the Gospel and the grace of Christ, the law and its ordinances which ye have chosen in their place afford you no power to conquer your evil propensities. It was on this ground that the apostle exhorted them, Gal 5:16, to walk in the Spirit, that they might not fulfill the lust of the flesh; as without the grace of God they could do nothing. Who can suppose that he speaks this of adult Christians?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--the reason why walking by the Spirit will exclude fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, namely, their mutual contrariety. the Spirit--not "lusteth," but "tendeth (or some such word is to be supplied) against the flesh." so that ye cannot do the things that ye would--The Spirit strives against the flesh and its evil influence; the flesh against the Spirit and His good influence, so that neither the one nor the other can be fully carried out into action. "But" (Gal 5:18) where "the Spirit" prevails, the issue of the struggle no longer continues doubtful (Rom 7:15-20) [BENGEL]. The Greek is, "that ye may not do the things that ye would." "The flesh and Spirit are contrary one to the other," so that you must distinguish what proceeds from the Spirit, and what from the flesh; and you must not fulfil what you desire according to the carnal self, but what the Spirit within you desires [NEANDER]. But the antithesis of Gal 5:18 ("But," &c.), where the conflict is decided, shows, I think, that here Gal 5:17 contemplates the inability both for fully accomplishing the good we "would," owing to the opposition of the flesh, and for doing the evil our flesh would desire, owing to the opposition of the Spirit in the awakened man (such as the Galatians are assumed to be), until we yield ourselves wholly by the Spirit to "walk by the Spirit" (Gal 5:16, Gal 5:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But if ye be led by the Spirit,.... That is, of God, who is the guide and leader of his people. It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind; as such are before conversion, and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not, and in paths they had not known: or from the leading of children, and teaching them to go; so the Spirit leads regenerate persons, and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ. This act of leading supposes life in the persons led, for dead men cannot be led; the Spirit is first a Spirit of life from Christ before he is a leader; and also it supposes some strength, though a good deal of weakness; were there no spiritual strength derived from Christ, they could not be led; and if there was no weakness, there would be no need of leading; it is an instance of powerful and efficacious grace upon them, yet not contrary to their wills, though they are led, they are not forced; they go freely, being led, as there is good reason for it; for the Spirit of God always leads for their profit and advantage, and for the spiritual delight, pleasure, and comfort of their souls; he leads out of the ways of sin, and so of ruin and destruction, and from Mount Sinai, and all dependence on a legal and moral righteousness; he leads to Christ, to his person, for shelter, safety, and salvation, to his blood, for pardon and cleansing, to his righteousness, for justification, and to his fulness, for every supply of grace; he leads into the presence of God, and to his house and ordinances; he leads into the covenant of grace, to the blessings, promises, and Mediator of it; he leads into all truth as it is in Jesus, in the ways of faith and truth, and in the paths of righteousness and holiness, and always in a right way, though sometimes in a rough one, to the city of their habitation; he leads from one degree of grace to another, and at last to glory: all which he does gradually; he leads by little and little into a man's sinfulness, and to see his interest in Christ, and by degrees into the doctrines of the Gospel, and the everlasting love of the three Persons; and proportionally to the strength he gives, and as they are able to bear: now such persons as these have nothing to fear from the law of God: ye are not under the law; such are not only delivered from the law in fact, but in their own apprehensions; they have the comfortable knowledge and experience of it; the law is no terrifying law to them; it works no wrath in them; they are delivered from the spirit of bondage to fear, by the Spirit of God, by whom they are led; nor are they under it, nor do they need it as a pressing forcing law to duty; they delight in it, and cheerfully serve it, being constrained by love, and not awed by fear; nor are its accusations and charges regarded, or to be regarded, by such who are led by the Spirit to Christ, the end of the law for righteousness; and they are entirely freed from its curse and condemnation, though they are under it, and desire to be under it, as held forth by Christ the King of saints; and, under the Spirit's influence and guidance, yield a cheerful and evangelical obedience to it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:17 We cannot simply decide to keep the law and not sin: A war rages between God’s Spirit and our sinful nature (see Rom 7:14-25; 1 Pet 2:11; cp. Gen 4:7). The answer is not human effort at law-keeping, but living by God’s Spirit. When we are resurrected, we will finally be freed from sin (see Rom 8:18-25).
Galatians 5:17
Walking by the Spirit
16So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.17For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want.18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Getting to Know the Holy Spirit
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Gathering in Jesus Name (Tamil)
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(Exodus) Exodus 17:8-12
By J. Vernon McGee3.6K04:08ExpositionalEXO 17:9EXO 17:11MAT 26:41ROM 8:13GAL 5:17EPH 6:181TH 5:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of the battle between the Israelites and the Amalekites, which represents the conflict between the flesh and the spirit. The Amalekites, descendants of Esau, symbolize the flesh, and the Israelites, inexperienced in warfare, struggle to overcome them. The preacher emphasizes that victory over the flesh can only be achieved through the power of the Holy Spirit. The battle is ultimately won through the prayer and intercession of Moses, as he holds up his hands with the rod of God.
(Genesis) Genesis 21:1-11
By J. Vernon McGee2.9K12:01GenesisGEN 21:2GEN 21:9MAT 6:33ROM 6:13ROM 7:22ROM 8:3GAL 5:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of believers having two natures - an old nature and a new nature. He explains that before conversion, the old nature controls a person's actions, often leading to unkind behavior. However, when someone is born again, they receive a new nature, which leads to a battle between the old and new natures. The preacher emphasizes the importance of making a decision to yield to the new nature and live a righteous life. He also mentions the story of Isaac and Ishmael as an illustration of the conflict between the two natures.
(Names of Jehovah) 3. Jehovah Nissi
By Roy Hession2.7K51:21Spiritual WarfareVictory in ChristJehovah NissiEXO 17:15PSA 60:4ISA 59:19JHN 16:33ROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 2:14GAL 5:171TH 5:23HEB 7:25Roy Hession explores the name Jehovah Nissi, emphasizing that God is our banner and source of victory in spiritual battles. He recounts the story of Israel's battle against Amalek, illustrating how Moses' intercession and the support of Aaron and Hur led to Israel's triumph. Hession highlights the internal conflict between the flesh and the spirit, urging believers to recognize and combat the flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit. He reassures that with Jehovah as our banner, we can overcome our struggles and experience God's provision and victory in all aspects of life. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to trust in Jehovah Nissi for their battles, both internal and external.
A Close Watch on Doctrine
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(Genesis) 46 - Jacob in the Crucible of Divine Discipline
By S. Lewis Johnson1.4K50:20Divine DisciplineGEN 30:1GEN 30:22MAT 6:33ROM 7:15GAL 5:17PHP 1:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Genesis chapter 30, which explores the story of Rachel and Leah and the fruit of polygamy. The chapter begins with Rachel's jealousy and envy towards her sister Leah because she was unable to bear children. The preacher highlights the negative consequences of jealousy and how it can trouble families and churches. The sermon also emphasizes the grace of God in using difficult and unpromising situations to demonstrate His power and love.
(Men God Made) Samson
By Willie Mullan1.3K51:01SamsonJDG 13:1MAT 6:33ROM 7:19ROM 7:24GAL 5:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Samson from the book of Judges. He emphasizes the theme of restoration and the grace of God. The preacher highlights how Samson, despite his flaws and mistakes, was restored by God and used mightily for His glory. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of learning from Samson's life and the consequences of giving in to the lusts of the flesh. The preacher encourages the audience to turn their eyes upon God and seek His deliverance and guidance in their own lives.
Lukewarm No More - Part 5
By George Verwer91607:55LukewarmGAL 5:17REV 3:15In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of lukewarmness among believers and emphasizes the importance of being passionate and committed to Jesus. He highlights the motivation of Jesus, who was moved with compassion and actively engaged with people. The speaker suggests that the greatest problems in the world are actually within the church, specifically the problem of lukewarmness. He argues that if believers were filled with the Spirit and fully surrendered to God, it would have a powerful impact on society. The speaker concludes by stating that the first priority for God is the condition of our hearts.
Discipleship or Survivalship: Survival for Strugglers
By George Verwer90255:14DiscipleshipMAT 6:33ROM 7:152CO 12:8GAL 5:17PHP 3:14HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of breaking his foot while kicking boxes. He emphasizes the importance of not becoming discouraged when growth in our Christian life is not immediate. The speaker mentions six concepts that are important for believers to understand, including the reality of praise and thanksgiving, living in the rest of faith, and learning how to be hurt. The sermon also includes a discussion about the need for discipline in order to live for God and the challenges of adjusting to a different lifestyle during a storm. The speaker encourages the audience to develop a disciplined life and make necessary changes in order to survive and thrive in their faith.
Hunger and Thirst
By Anton Bosch84633:37RighteousnessPSA 17:15PSA 42:1PSA 51:10MAT 5:6MAT 6:33GAL 5:172TI 2:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of hunger and thirst for righteousness. He compares these desires to the basic needs of food and water, stating that without them, we lack the essentials of life. The speaker encourages listeners to pursue righteousness with the same intensity and single-mindedness as people pursue fame and fortune. He also highlights the story of the prodigal son, noting that true hunger for righteousness only arises when we are desperate and unsatisfied with the things of the world. The speaker urges listeners to seek a deep and continual longing for the Lord Jesus and his righteousness.
Foundations - Divine Life
By Stephen Kaung71451:48GEN 2:7JHN 3:6ROM 7:15GAL 5:17This sermon delves into the creation of man, the purpose of God in creating humanity, the struggle between the spirit and the soul, the importance of living for Christ, and the ultimate victory over the enemy through the life of Christ within believers. It emphasizes the choice between living for oneself or living for God, highlighting the need to surrender to Christ and allow His life to grow within, leading to maturity and victory over sin.
Holiness Movement & Phoebe Palmer, Part Ii
By Michael Haykin69449:57ROM 12:1GAL 5:171JN 3:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Galatians 5:17, which states that the flesh and the spirit are in constant conflict with each other. The preacher acknowledges the difficulty in understanding and interpreting this passage, attributing it to the linguistic and cultural differences between the original Greek text and modern translations. The sermon also touches on the concept of power, particularly in relation to living for Christ and being a witness for Him. The preacher briefly mentions the historical context of America in the 19th century, highlighting the concern among evangelicals regarding the issue of power. Additionally, the sermon briefly mentions the personal experience of Phoebe Palmer, who faced the tragic death of her child but found solace and strength through the Holy Spirit.
Testimony of Om
By George Verwer6821:02:38PSA 119:9PSA 119:11GAL 5:17HEB 13:4JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses his personal journey of becoming a follower of Jesus Christ. He initially lived a lazy and pleasure-seeking lifestyle, but after reading the gospel of God, he began to understand the message of Jesus Christ. Inspired by evangelist Billy Graham, he decided to attend a sports event where Graham was speaking. It was during this event that he made a commitment to the Lord and experienced a transformation in his life. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of not just believing with the head, but also with the heart and living a life dedicated to following Christ.
Providence Mission Conference 99 Session 1
By George Verwer60657:08EZK 33:6MAT 6:33JHN 4:241CO 10:13GAL 5:171PE 5:8In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of a man named Jimmy Baker who had a scandalous downfall due to his involvement with prostitutes. The speaker emphasizes the importance of learning from the Word of God rather than making mistakes in order to avoid such situations. He also highlights the impact of movies on society and praises Christian films for their role in bringing people to Jesus. The speaker encourages the audience to not only evangelize the world but also to be aware of the books available for their spiritual growth.
A Divided Allegiance
By Shane Idleman1649:40IdolatryDivided AllegianceDEU 30:19MAT 6:24LUK 9:23ROM 12:21CO 10:14GAL 5:17HEB 12:1JAS 1:81PE 2:111JN 2:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical nature of allegiance in the Christian life, illustrating that one cannot serve both God and the world. He warns against divided loyalties, using examples from scripture and personal anecdotes to highlight the dangers of idolatry and the necessity of full surrender to Christ. Idleman calls for a return to extreme Christianity, where believers actively flee from anything that draws them away from God, and he challenges the congregation to examine their priorities and commitments. He stresses that true joy and fulfillment come from a complete allegiance to Jesus, urging listeners to choose their side in the ongoing spiritual battle.
Set Free From Slavery
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Fasting - the Good, Bad, and Hungry
By Shane Idleman1244:11Spiritual DisciplineFastingISA 58:6MAT 6:18MAT 26:41GAL 5:17Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline that helps believers overcome the weakness of the flesh and grow closer to God. He explains that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but is a means to starve the flesh and be filled with the Holy Spirit, leading to spiritual insight, power, and victory. Idleman highlights the historical importance of fasting in the lives of early church leaders and encourages the congregation to embrace fasting as a way to deepen their relationship with God and experience His presence more fully.
Fasting - They Found the Secret
By Shane Idleman1048:27Spiritual DisciplineFastingISA 58:6MAT 6:18MAT 26:41GAL 5:17Shane Idleman emphasizes the transformative power of fasting in his sermon 'Fasting - They Found the Secret.' He explains that while the spirit is willing, the flesh is weak, and fasting serves as a means to strengthen the spirit by denying the flesh. Idleman highlights the historical significance of fasting in the church and its benefits, including spiritual insight, power, and healing. He encourages believers to embrace fasting as a way to humble themselves before God, seek His guidance, and break free from the burdens of sin and addiction. Ultimately, fasting is presented as a vital spiritual discipline that can lead to a deeper relationship with God and a renewed sense of purpose.
Studies in Esther - Part 1
By Major Ian Thomas531:40Conflict of the Flesh and SpiritUnderstanding Biblical ExegesisGEN 25:29EXO 17:8MAL 1:2JHN 16:13ROM 8:71CO 10:32CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 6:121JN 5:4Major Ian Thomas explores the Book of Esther, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation in biblical exegesis. He introduces key characters: King Ahasuerus representing human personality, Haman symbolizing the flesh, and Mordecai embodying the Holy Spirit. Thomas highlights the conflict between the flesh and the spirit, illustrating that true victory over sin is a divine gift rather than a human effort. He draws parallels between the story of Esther and the broader biblical narrative, particularly the enmity between God's people and the flesh, represented by Haman, an Amalekite. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding spiritual constants in scripture to accurately interpret and apply biblical truths.
Four Characteristics of the Carnal Life.
By F.B. Meyer2Spiritual GrowthDiscernmentMAT 5:14JHN 15:5ROM 8:71CO 1:121CO 3:2GAL 5:17EPH 4:14PHP 2:13HEB 5:141PE 2:2F.B. Meyer discusses the four characteristics of the carnal life, emphasizing that a carnal Christian remains in a state of spiritual infancy, relying on others for spiritual nourishment instead of growing in their own understanding of God and the Bible. He warns against sectarianism, where believers identify more with their denominational labels than with the universal Church of Christ. Meyer also highlights the inability of carnal Christians to discern good from evil, likening their spiritual immaturity to a lack of sensitivity to moral issues. He calls for self-examination to determine whether one is living a Christ-centered life or a flesh-centered existence, ultimately urging believers to depend on God rather than themselves.
The Fallacy of "Insignificant Sin"
By A.W. Tozer1SinForgivenessISA 59:2MAT 5:28LUK 13:3JHN 8:34ROM 3:231CO 10:12GAL 5:17EPH 2:1JAS 2:101JN 1:9A.W. Tozer addresses the misconception that minor sins are insignificant and can be overlooked by God. He emphasizes that a person's standing before God is determined not by the severity of their sins but by whether they have been forgiven and their allegiance to God or the devil. Tozer illustrates this with the analogy of a soldier who, by merely siding with rebels, is guilty of mutiny regardless of his actions. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of sin and the necessity of repentance and forgiveness.
Freedom From Self
By Ernest O'Neill1MRK 7:21JHN 14:16ACT 15:9ROM 6:6ROM 8:71CO 12:8GAL 5:17GAL 5:22Ernest O'Neill preaches on the search for blessedness and the struggle with inward sin that hinders our spiritual growth. He emphasizes the need for honesty in examining our hearts and the gradual decline in zeal and devotion that many Christians experience over time. O'Neill highlights the distinction between outward sins and inward sin, pointing to the importance of surrendering our 'old self' to God for complete sanctification and freedom from self. He encourages believers to have faith in God's work in their lives and to fully consecrate themselves, allowing the Holy Spirit to cleanse their hearts and guide them into a deeper relationship with God.
Evil Thoughts, Unbidden and Hated
By John Nelson Darby0Overcoming Evil ThoughtsDeliverance from SelfPSA 119:11ISA 26:3MAT 6:33ROM 6:22CO 12:9GAL 5:17PHP 4:8JAS 4:71PE 5:71JN 1:9John Nelson Darby addresses the struggle with unbidden and hated evil thoughts that arise even when one is focused on the Lord. He emphasizes the need for deliverance from the flesh and encourages believers to recognize that these thoughts do not define them. Instead of stopping to confess these thoughts, Darby advises to ignore them and continue in communion with God, as acknowledging them only gives power to the flesh. He reassures that this experience is common among believers and encourages a focus on God's strength in moments of weakness.
The Glory of Israel Fades Away
By George Warnock0Spiritual WarfareObedience to GodEXO 34:29JDG 3:11SA 2:29ISA 43:19ROM 8:132CO 3:7GAL 5:17HEB 12:11JN 2:15REV 3:15George Warnock discusses the decline of Israel's glory after they settled in Canaan, emphasizing their failure to fully obey God's command to destroy the idolatrous nations. This coexistence with their enemies led to spiritual defeat, as the subdued became their masters. Warnock highlights the fading glory of the Tabernacle and the negligence of Eli, who prioritized his sons over God's commands, warning that similar complacency exists in the Church today. He reassures that God is preparing a 'Samuel' people to rise from the decay of the old religious order, bringing forth a new and vibrant movement. The sermon calls for a return to earnest obedience and a longing for the abundant life in the Spirit.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit - God still continues to strive with you, notwithstanding your apostasy, showing you whence you have fallen, and exciting you to return to him; but your own obstinacy renders all ineffectual; and through the influence of these different principles, you are kept in a state of self-opposition and self-distraction, so that you cannot do the things that ye would. You are convinced of what is right, and ye wish to do it; but, having abandoned the Gospel and the grace of Christ, the law and its ordinances which ye have chosen in their place afford you no power to conquer your evil propensities. It was on this ground that the apostle exhorted them, Gal 5:16, to walk in the Spirit, that they might not fulfill the lust of the flesh; as without the grace of God they could do nothing. Who can suppose that he speaks this of adult Christians?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--the reason why walking by the Spirit will exclude fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, namely, their mutual contrariety. the Spirit--not "lusteth," but "tendeth (or some such word is to be supplied) against the flesh." so that ye cannot do the things that ye would--The Spirit strives against the flesh and its evil influence; the flesh against the Spirit and His good influence, so that neither the one nor the other can be fully carried out into action. "But" (Gal 5:18) where "the Spirit" prevails, the issue of the struggle no longer continues doubtful (Rom 7:15-20) [BENGEL]. The Greek is, "that ye may not do the things that ye would." "The flesh and Spirit are contrary one to the other," so that you must distinguish what proceeds from the Spirit, and what from the flesh; and you must not fulfil what you desire according to the carnal self, but what the Spirit within you desires [NEANDER]. But the antithesis of Gal 5:18 ("But," &c.), where the conflict is decided, shows, I think, that here Gal 5:17 contemplates the inability both for fully accomplishing the good we "would," owing to the opposition of the flesh, and for doing the evil our flesh would desire, owing to the opposition of the Spirit in the awakened man (such as the Galatians are assumed to be), until we yield ourselves wholly by the Spirit to "walk by the Spirit" (Gal 5:16, Gal 5:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But if ye be led by the Spirit,.... That is, of God, who is the guide and leader of his people. It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind; as such are before conversion, and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not, and in paths they had not known: or from the leading of children, and teaching them to go; so the Spirit leads regenerate persons, and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ. This act of leading supposes life in the persons led, for dead men cannot be led; the Spirit is first a Spirit of life from Christ before he is a leader; and also it supposes some strength, though a good deal of weakness; were there no spiritual strength derived from Christ, they could not be led; and if there was no weakness, there would be no need of leading; it is an instance of powerful and efficacious grace upon them, yet not contrary to their wills, though they are led, they are not forced; they go freely, being led, as there is good reason for it; for the Spirit of God always leads for their profit and advantage, and for the spiritual delight, pleasure, and comfort of their souls; he leads out of the ways of sin, and so of ruin and destruction, and from Mount Sinai, and all dependence on a legal and moral righteousness; he leads to Christ, to his person, for shelter, safety, and salvation, to his blood, for pardon and cleansing, to his righteousness, for justification, and to his fulness, for every supply of grace; he leads into the presence of God, and to his house and ordinances; he leads into the covenant of grace, to the blessings, promises, and Mediator of it; he leads into all truth as it is in Jesus, in the ways of faith and truth, and in the paths of righteousness and holiness, and always in a right way, though sometimes in a rough one, to the city of their habitation; he leads from one degree of grace to another, and at last to glory: all which he does gradually; he leads by little and little into a man's sinfulness, and to see his interest in Christ, and by degrees into the doctrines of the Gospel, and the everlasting love of the three Persons; and proportionally to the strength he gives, and as they are able to bear: now such persons as these have nothing to fear from the law of God: ye are not under the law; such are not only delivered from the law in fact, but in their own apprehensions; they have the comfortable knowledge and experience of it; the law is no terrifying law to them; it works no wrath in them; they are delivered from the spirit of bondage to fear, by the Spirit of God, by whom they are led; nor are they under it, nor do they need it as a pressing forcing law to duty; they delight in it, and cheerfully serve it, being constrained by love, and not awed by fear; nor are its accusations and charges regarded, or to be regarded, by such who are led by the Spirit to Christ, the end of the law for righteousness; and they are entirely freed from its curse and condemnation, though they are under it, and desire to be under it, as held forth by Christ the King of saints; and, under the Spirit's influence and guidance, yield a cheerful and evangelical obedience to it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:17 We cannot simply decide to keep the law and not sin: A war rages between God’s Spirit and our sinful nature (see Rom 7:14-25; 1 Pet 2:11; cp. Gen 4:7). The answer is not human effort at law-keeping, but living by God’s Spirit. When we are resurrected, we will finally be freed from sin (see Rom 8:18-25).