If a person has spiritual freedom, what is their incentive to obey God?  That question was a concern in the early church.  And it is one of the reasons that the early Christians were attracted to false teachers who emphasized following the law of Moses as a requirement for salvation.  If you have always lived with strict routines throughout the day, weeks and seasons, it is unsettling to have freedom. Much like a person who has served in the military for years, struggles with the adjustment to civilian life.  Or a person who has been in prison who is suddenly released to freedom.  The answer involves personal responsibility and mutual accountability. 

In Galatians 6:7-10, we learn that the issues within this church involved leaders who were arrogant and encouraged the comparison of righteousness between each other, the mistreatment of teachers, and dealing with public sin among other believers.   This divisiveness tempted Christians to respond in a manner that did not match the themes of love, grace and mercy.  You can only imagine the anger, finger pointing, and grandstanding that was happening within the church. 

It leads me to think about our current culture and how people respond to perceived offenses.  People seem to believe that if you are on the morally right side, you should respond with aggressive and hostile behavior toward those you disagree with. (Of course, we can debate which side is following God’s morality.)  That behavior only makes matters worse and does not lead to a successful resolution.  Instead, we are to react in a manner that reflects love for others, regardless of their faith.  So, as you get upset about what others are doing wrong, make sure it does not lead you into sinful behavior.  Remember, other believers are watching you.  But more importantly, God is watching you.  Your works do not earn your salvation, but your works should be pleasing to God and reflect your Christian faith. 

Read Galatians 6