Christian freedom is what we are made for - we are to enjoy it! We have been released from being slaves to those who are not gods.
Paul clearly demonstrates his pastoral concern and worries - he pleads with them & argues his case clearly. Paul uses Genesis 16 as allegory, using Hagar as the enslaving one, whilst Sarah is the free one. He reminds of the joy of freedom and also the danger of the law, by using Isaiah 54:1 & Gen 21:10-12
5:2-12 The four results of taking the way of the law:
Christ will be of no value to you
You are required to obey the whole law
You are alienated from Christ
You have fallen away from grace
v13-15 The Christian should use their freedom not to indulge the sinful nature, but to serve one another in love.
v16-24 The flesh and the Spirit are at war. The Christian should be living to produce the fruit of the Spirit. We belong to Christ and so seek to keep in step with the Spirit.
Living by the Spirit affects our social relationships, such that we want to live for others.
Don't be conceited, provoking or envying others. Restore others gently. Carry others' burdens. Test your own actions. Carry your own load. Don't become weary in doing good. Do good to all people, especially the family of believers.
The core of Christianity is simply boasting in the cross of Jesus - we must die to all.
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