Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection:

Read Galatians 5.

Why do you think John Wesley asked the question of potential new pastors, “Have they fruit?” What kind of fruit was he looking for? What kind of fruit is in your life? Is there any fruit you don’t have, or would like more of?What are the three forms of grace in Wesleyan theology? What does each form represent? How does grace relate to freedom in Christ?In this week’s video Idleman says, “You have been set free to live differently.” What does he mean by that? How have we been set free, and from what? How are we to live differently as a result?Paul says in verse 6, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” Why do you think he said that? Do you agree? What does that look like in everyday life?In verse 13 Paul says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to befree. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” What does it mean to “indulge the flesh”? If we are not to do this, then in what way are we free?Read verse 15. In what way is that a necessary warning for our culture today, both in and out of the church?What does Paul mean in verse 17 when he describes the Spirit and the flesh as being in conflict with each other? In what ways do you experience this conflict in your own life? How can you resolve this conflict?Where does the transforming power of sanctification come from? What is your role in your own sanctification?What is the fruit of the Spirit described in verse 22? Why is “fruit” singular if there are nine attributes listed?

Prayer for the Week:

Almighty God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us live in true freedom in Christ. Forgive us for the times we abuse this freedom, living more by the flesh than by the Spirit. We invite you to crucify our flesh every day so that we may walk in step with your Spirit. Help us to express our faith in love every day by loving our neighbor as ourselves. Help us to share the Gospel of love with everyone around us at every opportunity we get, so that you will be glorified and your Kingdom advanced right here on earth. We love you, Lord, and we surrender our lives to you anew this day. We pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.