The law doesn’t have power to deal with the sin (flesh) within us. It is only the power of Christ in the Gospel, brought into our souls through the Spirit that enables us to defeat sin within (the flesh) (v16).

The entrance of the Spirit into the believer at conversion, begins a conflict between the Spirit and the flesh (sin) within (v17). The works of the flesh are outlined (v19-21) and these belong to a life of sin and eternal death.

By contrast the fruit of the Spirit outlined in verses 22-23, leads to freedom and eternal life. The law doesn’t put to death the ways of sin, only the Gospel with the power of the cross can do this (v24). The power of the cross becomes real in our lives through the Holy Spirit. We must seek to keep In step with how He wants to lead us and not with the ways of sin (v25-26).

Do you know the power of the Christ real in your life through the Spirit, helping you to have victory over sin and to live a life of loving obedience?