What does it mean to live by the Spirit? In Galatians 6, Paul describes Spirit-led living to the Galatians, emphasizing that it is neither isolated nor self-focused. Life in the Spirit is outwardly directed toward others, with an inward reflection marked by humility.

Paul opens Chapter 6 by encouraging the Galatians to restore those who have fallen into sin. Although the exact situation in Galatia isn’t clear, Paul hints (perhaps from 5:26) that living by the Spirit involves actively pursuing those who have been “caught” in any transgression. The Greek word prolambanō, translated here as “caught,” means to be overtaken or caught off guard. Christians who aren’t vigilant in their battle with sin can be overtaken by it, as sin continually seeks to disrupt and destroy. Spirit-filled believers, therefore, have a responsibility to pursu ...