QT 5 Dec 16, Gal 5:19-24, We need the Word of God to change the damage the flesh has done to us

Galatians 5:19–24 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,

20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,

21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

NOTE: Two lists, one with works of the flesh, the other with fruit of the Spirit. Modern culture would agree with most of the list being wrong actions, although would also disagree with some items on the list. In the extreme case, atheists would disagree with the term wrong or immoral, not believing that the term can be defined absolutely. But their disagreement and culture's disagreement, is because they are controlled by the flesh. They are blinded by sin and slaves to sin. They are in rebellion to God. Their thinking is corrupted and consequently, the don't even realize the extent. Although deep down, I think they do know something is not right. Even after years of hardening their hearts, there will always be a seed of morality which cries out against the pain of sin.

The works of the flesh are plural, meaning that there are many ways the flesh exerts itself--exerts its control. The fruit of the spirit is singular, despite a list of nine character qualities, meaning that when the Spirit is in control it works in all areas, not just a few. Walking in the Spirit is not just growing in patience, but it means growing in the total character.

Our flesh and Spirit are in conflict with each other, even though, for the believer, the flesh was crucified. It was put to death, but the remnants of its effects remain. Our body is affected by years of sin and patterns of behavior. We need a renewal and transformation of our body, mind, and heart. It starts with letting God change us through the power of the Holy Spirit and the word of God. There is no magic formula, but there is no change without the latter two.