Walking in the Spirit: Embracing Transformation and Assurance

Summary

Paul’s words in Galatians 5 remind us that the Christian life is a daily walk—a journey marked by the ongoing conflict between the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Spirit. This battle is not just theoretical; it’s real, personal, and persistent. The acts of the flesh are obvious, and Paul lists them not to shame us, but to help us recognize what must be crucified in our lives. Yet, the call is not simply to avoid sin, but to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—as the very foundation of our lives. These are not just virtues to admire, but evidence of the Spirit’s work within us, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.

It’s easy to become numb to our own sin, to justify or ignore it, but Scripture calls us to continual repentance—a posture of humility and openness before God. Repentance is not a one-time event, but a lifelong turning toward God, a willingness to let the Spirit expose and heal what is broken within us. The danger is not in struggling with sin, but in feeling nothing for it, in being able to rest comfortably while ignoring the Spirit’s conviction. True spiritual health is marked by a tender conscience, a heart that is broken by what breaks God’s heart.

Yet, this journey is not meant to be lived in fear. John reminds us that perfect love drives out fear. We are not left to wonder if we are “good enough” or if we have done enough to inherit the kingdom of God. Our confidence is not in our own performance, but in the love of God poured out through Christ and made real by the Spirit within us. The Spirit’s presence is the assurance that we belong to God, that we are being transformed, and that our inheritance is secure—not because of our perfection, but because of God’s faithfulness.

This assurance should fill us with joy and boldness, not only in our personal walk, but in our witness to the world. We are called to share the good news, to invite others into the family of God, and to live lives that reflect the beauty and power of the Spirit. The invitation is open: to repent, to receive, to walk in the Spirit, and to know—truly know—that eternal life is ours in Christ.

Key Takeaways

- The battle between flesh and Spirit is ongoing, but awareness and honest self-examination are essential. Recognizing the acts of the flesh in our own lives is not about condemnation, but about clarity—so that we can bring these things to God and allow the Spirit to transform us. Without this awareness, we risk drifting into spiritual numbness and missing the life God intends for us. [30:30]

- Repentance is not a one-time event, but a continual turning toward God. The call to repent is for everyone—leaders, long-time believers, and newcomers alike. True repentance involves a radical inward change, a willingness to let go of self-justification and to let God’s grace do its work in us, again and again. [39:32]

- Spiritual numbness is a dangerous place; if we can sin and feel nothing, we are in peril. A healthy spiritual life is marked by a tender conscience, a heart that is broken by sin and quick to seek God’s forgiveness. The Spirit’s conviction is a gift, drawing us back to God’s love and away from complacency. [47:39]

- Assurance of salvation is rooted in God’s love, not our performance. Perfect love casts out fear, and the Spirit’s presence within us is the guarantee that we belong to God. Even when we stumble, we can have confidence—not because we are flawless, but because God’s love is greater than our failures. [55:20]

- The fruit of the Spirit is both the evidence and the means of transformation. As we walk in the Spirit, these qualities become the foundation of our lives, shaping our relationships, our witness, and our hope. The more we step into God’s love and allow the Spirit to lead, the more the battle shifts from our own striving to God’s power at work in us. [36:16]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[30:30] - Reading Galatians 5: The Conflict of Flesh and Spirit
[31:30] - Prayer Request and Community Update
[32:23] - The Importance of Excitement in Christ
[33:10] - Evangelism at the Car Show: Seizing Opportunities
[34:09] - Our Mission: Share the Good News and Transform Lives
[35:47] - Building a Foundation: The Fruit of the Spirit
[37:12] - The World’s View: Living Out the Fruit
[38:17] - The Seriousness of Sin and the Call to Repentance
[41:14] - Repentance: A Lifelong Journey
[43:49] - The Inheritance: What Does It Mean to Inherit the Kingdom?
[47:39] - The Danger of Spiritual Numbness
[49:39] - Hope: Walking in the Spirit and Overcoming Fear
[52:03] - Assurance in 1 John: Knowing We Belong to God
[54:45] - Perfect Love Drives Out Fear
[57:00] - God’s Love Is Greater Than Our Flesh
[59:24] - Celebrating and Sharing God’s Love
[01:04:00] - Revelation 3: The Call to Be Earnest and Repent
[01:05:46] - Invitation: Jesus Stands at the Door

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Walking by the Spirit (Galatians 5)

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### Bible Reading

- Galatians 5:16-25
(The conflict between flesh and Spirit, the acts of the flesh, and the fruit of the Spirit)

- 1 John 4:13-18
(Assurance of God’s love, perfect love casting out fear)

- Revelation 3:19-21
(Jesus’ call to be earnest, repent, and open the door to Him)

---

### Observation Questions

1. In Galatians 5, what are some of the acts of the flesh that Paul lists, and what does he say about those who live like this?
[[30:44]]

2. According to Galatians 5, what are the qualities that make up the fruit of the Spirit?
[[31:15]]

3. In 1 John 4, what does John say is the evidence that God lives in us?
[[55:20]]

4. In Revelation 3, what does Jesus say to those He loves, and what is His invitation?
[[01:05:13]]

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says the battle between flesh and Spirit is “real, personal, and persistent.” Why is it important to recognize this battle in our daily lives, rather than ignore or justify our actions?
[[38:36]]

2. The pastor mentioned that repentance is not a one-time event but a continual turning toward God. What does it look like to live a lifestyle of ongoing repentance?
[[39:32]]

3. The sermon warns about “spiritual numbness”—being able to sin and feel nothing. Why is this considered so dangerous, and how does a tender conscience protect us?
[[47:39]]

4. According to 1 John 4, how does God’s love give us assurance and drive out fear about our salvation?
[[55:52]]

---

### Application Questions

1. The acts of the flesh are “obvious,” but sometimes we become numb or justify them. Is there an area in your life where you have become numb to sin or tend to make excuses? What would it look like to bring this honestly before God this week?
[[38:36]]

2. Repentance is described as a continual turning toward God, not just a one-time event. What is one practical way you can practice ongoing repentance in your daily routine? (For example, a daily prayer of self-examination, or asking a trusted friend to check in with you.)
[[39:32]]

3. The sermon says that a healthy spiritual life is marked by a “tender conscience.” When was the last time you felt truly broken over your sin? What helps you keep your heart soft toward God?
[[47:39]]

4. Assurance of salvation is rooted in God’s love, not our performance. Do you ever struggle with doubts about being “good enough” for God? How can you remind yourself this week that your confidence is in Christ, not in your own efforts?
[[55:52]]

5. The fruit of the Spirit is both evidence and the means of transformation. Choose one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control). What is one specific way you can intentionally cultivate this fruit in a relationship or situation this week?
[[36:16]]

6. The sermon calls us to share the good news and invite others into God’s family. Who is one person in your life who needs to experience the love and assurance of Christ? What is one step you can take to reach out to them this week?
[[34:09]]

7. Jesus says in Revelation 3 that He stands at the door and knocks. Is there an area of your life where you sense Jesus is inviting you to open the door more fully to Him? What is holding you back, and what would it look like to say “yes” to His invitation?
[[01:05:13]]

---

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for a tender conscience, for the Spirit’s help in ongoing repentance, and for boldness to share the assurance of God’s love with others.

Devotional

Day 1: The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit
Every believer faces a daily conflict between the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Spirit. This struggle is not a sign of failure but a reality of life in Christ, where the Spirit empowers us to resist the pull of our sinful nature. Recognizing this battle is essential, as it calls us to be vigilant, honest about our weaknesses, and dependent on the Spirit’s guidance. When we walk by the Spirit, we are not left to our own strength but are given the power to overcome and live in a way that pleases God. [30:30]

Galatians 5:16-18 (ESV)
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Reflection: Where in your life do you most feel the pull between your flesh and the Spirit, and how can you invite the Spirit to lead you in that area today?

Day 2: The Call to Ongoing Repentance
Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual turning away from sin and toward God. Jesus’ first command was to repent, and this call remains for all who follow Him. True repentance involves recognizing the depth of our need, being honest about our sin, and allowing God’s grace to continually cleanse and renew us. This ongoing process keeps our hearts soft, humble, and open to transformation, ensuring that we do not become complacent or numb to the seriousness of sin. [39:32]

Mark 1:15 (ESV)
And saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to practice ongoing repentance, and how can you bring this honestly before God today?

Day 3: Assurance in God’s Perfect Love
God’s perfect love casts out fear and gives us confidence in our salvation. When we live in God’s love, we do not have to be paralyzed by fear of judgment or uncertainty about our standing with Him. Instead, we can rest in the assurance that, through Christ, we are fully known, fully loved, and secure in our inheritance as children of God. This love not only transforms our relationship with God but also empowers us to love others deeply and authentically. [54:45]

1 John 4:13-18 (ESV)
By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

Reflection: In what ways do you struggle with fear or doubt about God’s love for you, and how can you choose to rest in His perfect love today?

Day 4: The Danger of Spiritual Lukewarmness
A lukewarm faith—neither hot nor cold—leads to spiritual complacency and distance from God. Jesus warns that such indifference is distasteful and calls us to earnestness, repentance, and wholehearted devotion. He stands at the door, inviting us into deeper fellowship and promising that those who are victorious will share in His glory. This is a call to examine our hearts, rekindle our passion for Christ, and respond to His loving discipline with sincerity and zeal. [01:04:23]

Revelation 3:19-21 (ESV)
Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.

Reflection: Are there areas in your spiritual life where you have grown lukewarm? What step can you take today to open the door to deeper fellowship with Jesus?

Day 5: Living as Witnesses of God’s Transforming Love
Our mission as followers of Christ is to share the good news and allow God’s love to transform lives—beginning with our own. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—should be evident in us, drawing others to Christ. As we live by the Spirit and keep in step with Him, our lives become a testimony to the world of God’s grace and power to change hearts. Let us be bold, excited, and intentional in living out and sharing this transforming love. [34:09]

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

Reflection: Who is one person you can intentionally share God’s love with this week, and what practical step will you take to do so?

Quotes

We need to be excited about who we are in Christ, what we have together in Christ as a family and and how that affects us. Uh, and hopefully that is something that that carries over into the rest of our lives. And yes, even at a car show yesterday, I would hope that people if they knew where we were from, then they would see the excitement that we were hosting our community um for the the not just the cause of the community, but for the cause of Christ. [00:32:45]

One of the things that need to be in this foundation are these these this fruit of the spirit. Uh the things that the world should see in us, the things that uh for the most part um maybe we don't see it as often as we should. And it's those nine things that are listed in verse 22 and 23. Uh the love, joy, the peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. [00:36:08]

Those things need to be part of the foundation. And yes, they they need to be uh seen in us, but they also need to be things that are always underneath being continually cultivated in us as we grow in that, as we change in that. [00:36:30]

The reality of knowing these is so important. And being able to identify these things in our lives is extremely important to know what what the flesh is, what the sinful nature is. Uh and then understanding that where we're going today, the last part of this verse in verse 21 says, "Those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." [00:37:47]

If I'm not aware of what my flesh is involved in and and I tend to to kind of cover it and I tend to shove it under the carpet or I don't deal with it or I pretend like it's not going on in my flesh or if in some way I figure out how to justify what I'm doing even though deep down I know it's wrong, I this scares me. [00:38:32]

Jesus when he first starts his ministry specifically in Mark and Matthew early on we get this statement where he says repent and believe the good news or repent for the kingdom of heaven is near. And so he calls people on a regular basis to repentance uh in Luke chapter 10. [00:39:35]

I don't believe there are five steps of salvation. I believe there are aspects of of those things that are a part of our salvation. But I don't just repent one time. And and I don't just confess one time. I don't just hear the word one time. I don't just believe the word. I continue to hear and believe. and repent and confess. [00:40:22]

Salvation, while yeah, Christ is in control of that and and and he is the one who gives us that, the reality is we are still those who need to live, as Paul writes in Ephesians 4, a a life worthy of the calling that we've received. We've all been called to follow Christ. And so repentance is important. [00:40:55]

The first command of Jesus's public ministry was repent." And he spoke this command indiscriminately to anyone who would listen. It was a call for radical inward change toward God and man. A and so again, looking at that idea of repenting of our sinful nature and and allowing ourselves to realize the depth of what we deal with, we need to understand our sin so that we know what we're repenting of. [00:41:17]

We are tempted when we are dragged away by our own evil desire. I I heard a gentleman the other day uh say and I I'm not sure if I agree with this yet, so I'm just going to throw this out there. I'm I'm I'm still mauling this over. He said, and he was he was preaching. He says, "I am not good. You are not good. There is no one in here that is good." [00:42:18]

But again, no in Galatians 5:17 says that that the flesh and the spirit are in conflict and we have this ongoing battle. Yes, this is a bit of a review, but I think it's important for us to grasp this again to understand where I'm going today. [00:43:40]

Inheritance implies that that we be are able to receive something that's not ours that's given to us because we are in the family. John chapter 1 says those who believe God gave the right to become children of God. And so I've talked about being heirs joints in the kingdom and understanding what that means. [00:44:31]

The riches are go of God are so much deeper than anything we can ever put value to here on earth. And so understanding what we inherit, my personal opinion is that I'm not going to understand what I inherit because I live for God until I step into his kingdom. when this all this whole earth comes to an end, that's when I'll understand the greatness of God's kingdom and inheriting that kingdom of God. [00:46:00]

If you can sin and sleep, you're in a dangerous place. If you can do evil to people and sleep, you're in a dangerous place. If you can do wickedness and rest, you are in a dangerous place. So, the last two weeks I've I've kind of laid this out and in some respects I I I think we're all in a we we are all have been or are in a dangerous place because we don't deal directly with our sin. [00:48:24]

But the reality is we can we can walk in the spirit. Amen. And so the reality is this this not getting or inheriting the kingdom of God. It doesn't have to be that way. There there is a way out. We we can get beyond being afraid and worrying about whether or not we're going to inherit the kingdom of God because scripture tells us we can. [00:49:59]

The love of God is much stronger and can go deeper in me than my flesh and the desires of my flesh ever can. Because in the when you go back to the beginning, God made male and female in how? in his image which means that deep within me and because I'm his I'm created in his image and I have his love in me that not only I can celebrate because he loves me so much but first John is also big on when you love God you are going to love your neighbor and so it changes the way we look at the world and so it it kind of comes in because God made us that way and then it goes out because we can't help but share share the love of God. [00:56:44]

Chatbot

What are the fruits of the Spirit?

How does love drive out fear?

What does inheriting the kingdom of God mean?