We are free Sons of God. What does it mean to be free and how do we express that.
1. Two desires. (v16-18) Battle between our natural nature (please self), and the desire of God's Spirit (who lives within the Christian). The Spirit puts a new desire in our heart - I am going to stop doing the wrong not because of the rules, but because we want to please God. (John 16:14). But currently the battle goes on. This may cause us to doubt our faith - rather if we hate our sin it is a sign that we are changed. The unsaved are not aware of the motivation of the Spirit.
2. The acts of the sinful nature (v19-21). Sexual, superstition and social sins. They are what I desire - centred on me, and opposed to God. For those who live habitually this way, (v21) the end result is terrible. All sin is dangerous, so fight against it led by the Holy Spirit.
3. The fruit of the Spirit (v22,23). The 'fruit' grows gradually over time. We get all these fruits as a package, making us more like Christ. It is the 'lifestyle'. More than natural character traits.
4. How is it that we grow? (v24,25). Three ways: (a) Remember we belong to Christ. (b) We have crucified our sinful nature. (Mark 8:34) (Detest our sinful nature). Can be painful and takes time. (c) Keep in step with the Spirit. We respond to the Spirit, and follow the path He maps out for us.
