Key Features of Walking in the Spirit
Walking in the Spirit differs from the legalistic approach to the Christian life in several ways:
FOUNDATIONAL UNDERSTANDING
The first difference has to do with the person’s understanding of the Gospel and their identity in Christ. The legalist approaches God on a works basis - seeking to earn approval by good behavior. However, the person walking in the Spirit approaches God on a Gospel basis – understanding that they have been rescued by God in His grace. They also understand that they have a secure identity in Christ – as God’s child fully accepted by Him.
FOUNDATIONAL UNDERSTANDING
The first difference has to do with the person’s understanding of the Gospel and their identity in Christ. The legalist approaches God on a works basis - seeking to earn approval by good behavior. However, the person walking in the Spirit approaches God on a Gospel basis – understanding that they have been rescued by God in His grace. They also understand that they have a secure identity in Christ – as God’s child fully accepted by Him.
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Legalism
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Walking in the Spirit
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FOCUS
The second difference is the focus. With legalism the focus is on the law – trying to measure up to a set of moral standards. God is perceived as a “Boss” for whom we need to perform. When walking in the Spirit, the focus is on God Himself, who is perceived as a gracious and loving heavenly Father.
The second difference is the focus. With legalism the focus is on the law – trying to measure up to a set of moral standards. God is perceived as a “Boss” for whom we need to perform. When walking in the Spirit, the focus is on God Himself, who is perceived as a gracious and loving heavenly Father.
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Legalism
Focus = Law |
Walking in the Spirit
Focus = Christ |
things of the spirit
One key verse that clearly describes “walking in the Spirit” is Romans 8:5-6:
”For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
So what are “things of the Spirit” that we are to set our minds on? There’s two basic categories: God’s Word and God’s creation. Like musical notes, there are countless ways to enjoy and express these. Here’s a few ways to set your mind on things of the Spirit:
”For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
So what are “things of the Spirit” that we are to set our minds on? There’s two basic categories: God’s Word and God’s creation. Like musical notes, there are countless ways to enjoy and express these. Here’s a few ways to set your mind on things of the Spirit:
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God’s Word
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God’s Creation
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When we set our minds on things of the Spirit by filling our lives with ways to get close to God we are feeding our new nature. It becomes stronger and we enjoy the fruits of the Spirit more and more. This is eternal life – life lived as it was meant to be, in relationship with God.
process it
