Galatians 5:23

• Gentleness is the opposite of the bad behaviors in 5:20 and requires strength (see Proverbs 15:1, 4; Matthew 11:28–29; Ephesians 4:2).

• Self-control: The Holy Spirit does not allow immoral behavior but helps people avoid sin (compare Galatians 5:13; Romans 6:14–18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–7; 1 Peter 2:16; see also Acts 24:25; Titus 1:8).

• Against such things there is no law: Paul explains what is already obvious, that those led by the Holy Spirit do not need laws to guide them.

These two lists compare life controlled by sinful desires (5:19–21) with life guided by the Holy Spirit (5:22–26). Living by the Spirit means following a higher moral standard than the law can provide.

A faith without laws will not cause moral ruin. The Holy Spirit guides people, changing their hearts to follow God's will and not sin (see Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10).

Paul explains that justification (being in right relationship with God) comes by faith alone. He then asks, "If we do not follow the law, what guides our behavior?" He answers that the Holy Spirit provides righteousness. The Judaizers (Jewish Christians who believed in following traditional Jewish laws) likely warned that Paul's message of freedom could lead believers to moral failure (5:1). Paul argues that freedom is not an excuse to sin because love guides Christians. We should use our freedom to serve each other with love (see also 2:20; 2 Corinthians 5:14–15).