What does Galatians 5:17 mean?

Explanation

Galatians 5:17 speaks to the internal conflict between the desires of the flesh, meaning the sinful or selfish nature, and the desires of the Spirit, representing the way of life guided by the Holy Spirit, which aligns with God's will.

The verse suggests that these two forces are not only in opposition but are fundamentally incompatible. As a result, a Christian might find themselves caught in a struggle, unable to easily do what they know to be right because of the contrary desires of their human nature.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Galatians to address issues afflicting the Galatian church.

Some members were teaching that Gentile believers must adhere to Jewish law, particularly circumcision, to be fully accepted by God.

Paul's letter emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law (Galatians 2:16).

Galatians 5:17 should be seen in the context of this larger argument, highlighting the internal struggle between following the Spirit and adhering to the desires of the flesh, which would include trying to justify oneself through legalistic observance of the law.

Theological Insights

Different theological traditions interpret this verse in varying ways.

Classic Protestant theology often sees it as a proof of the doctrine of original sin, affirming the constant presence of sin in human nature.

Roman Catholic teaching might emphasize the importance of grace to overcome this struggle.

In Pentecostal theology, this verse could underscore the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to overcome the flesh.

Eastern Orthodoxy might focus on the process of theosis, where believers become more like Christ through participation with the Holy Spirit.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Galatians 5:17 encourages self-reflection and acknowledgment of the inner conflict that believers experience.

Christians are invited to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in their decision-making, submitting their will to God's.

It is also a call to cultivate spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, and reading Scripture to foster the influence of the Spirit over the flesh.

Cross-References

• Romans 7:18-25 – Paul describes the struggle with sin and the law within himself.
• Romans 8:5-6 – Discusses the mindset on the flesh versus the mindset on the Spirit.
• 1 Peter 2:11 – Urges believers to abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul.
• James 4:1 – Describes conflicts and quarrels that come from passions at war within.

Language Study

In Galatians 5:17, the term "flesh" (Greek: σάρξ, sarx) refers not simply to the physical body but to the sinful nature of humans. The "Spirit" (Greek: πνεῦμα, pneuma) refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity.

The phrase "lusteth against" (Greek: ἐπιθυμεῖ, epithumei) indicates a strong desire or longing typically in a negative sense.

The word "contrary" (Greek: ἀντίκειται, antikeitai) expresses opposition or antagonism.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The motif of an internal struggle between dual natures can be found in various philosophical and religious traditions. For instance, in Zoroastrianism, there is a conflict between the forces of good and evil. In Plato's philosophy, the appetitive and rational parts of the soul are often at odds.

However, the specifics of these inner conflicts vary, and the Christian concept is uniquely framed by the work and influence of the Holy Spirit.

Scientific Perspectives

The internal conflict described in Galatians 5:17 can be considered through the lens of psychology, which recognizes the complexity of human behavior and motivation.

There is acknowledgment in psychological models of behavior that humans have competing drives and desires, which lead to conflicts in decision-making.

These models, while not directly addressing the concept of sin and the Holy Spirit, can provide insights into the nature of internal struggle and self-control.

commentaries

Biblical scholars often agree that Paul is describing a universal human experience.

John Stott, in his commentary "The Message of Galatians," sees this verse as describing the ongoing war between the Spirit and the flesh, suggesting that it is a daily struggle for believers.

N.T.

Wright, in his work "Paul for Everyone: Galatians and Thessalonians," interprets the conflict as evidence that Christians are not yet fully transformed and are in constant need of the Spirit's power.

Similarly, traditional commentaries like those from Matthew Henry highlight the perpetual nature of the struggle and the necessity of divine aid to lead a spiritual life.