Galatians 5:17

KJV

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the flesh {G4561} lusteth {G1937} against {G2596} the Spirit {G4151}, and {G1161} the Spirit {G4151} against {G2596} the flesh {G4561}: and {G1161} these {G5023} are contrary {G480} the one to the other {G240}: so that {G2443} ye cannot {G3363} do {G4160} the things {G5023} that {G3739}{G302} ye would {G2309}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the old nature wants what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit wants what is contrary to the old nature. These oppose each other, so that you find yourselves unable to carry out your good intentions.

Berean Standard Bible

For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want.

American Standard Version

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Galatians 5:17 unveils the profound and ceaseless internal conflict within every believer: the sinful nature, or "flesh," wages war against the indwelling Holy Spirit, and vice versa. This inherent opposition between two fundamentally contrary forces creates a tension that prevents believers from perfectly accomplishing their righteous desires, highlighting the ongoing struggle for sanctification and the necessity of dependence on divine grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Galatians 5:17 is a pivotal verse situated within Paul's impassioned defense of Christian liberty and life in the Spirit, following his robust theological arguments for justification by faith alone in the earlier chapters of his letter to the churches in Galatia. Having established that believers are freed from the bondage of the Mosaic Law ([Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Freedom in Christ")), Paul then transitions to the practical implications of this freedom. He warns against using liberty as an excuse for licentiousness ([Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Liberty Not for the Flesh")) and immediately precedes verse 17 with the crucial command to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walking by the Spirit")). Verse 17 then provides the theological rationale for this command, explaining *why* walking in the Spirit is essential: because the flesh and the Spirit are in direct, constant opposition, making it impossible to live righteously without the Spirit's empowering presence. The verses that follow ([Galatians 5:18-26](/galatians/5-18-26 "Galatians 5:18-26 - Works of the Flesh and Fruit of the Spirit")) further elaborate on the manifestations of this conflict, contrasting the "works of the flesh" with the "fruit of the Spirit."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Galatian churches were facing a significant challenge from "Judaizers," Jewish Christians who insisted that Gentile converts must adhere to aspects of the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, in addition to faith in Christ for salvation and sanctification. This legalistic teaching threatened to undermine the core message of the gospel—salvation by grace through faith—and to enslave believers once again to a system from which Christ had liberated them. Paul's letter vigorously counters this error, emphasizing that true righteousness and spiritual growth come not from human effort or adherence to external rules, but from the indwelling Holy Spirit. In the broader Greco-Roman world, there were various philosophical schools that posited a dualism between the material body and the immaterial soul, often viewing the body as inherently evil or a prison for the soul. While Paul acknowledges a conflict, his concept of "flesh" (sárx) is not merely the physical body but the fallen human nature, prone to sin, which is distinct from a philosophical body-soul dualism. His teaching provides a uniquely Christian understanding of the internal struggle, rooted in the reality of sin and the power of the Holy Spirit, rather than a Gnostic-like disdain for the physical.
* **Key Themes:** Galatians 5:17 encapsulates several key themes central to Paul's theology and the Christian life. Foremost is the **Inherent Spiritual Conflict** within the believer, a battle between the old, fallen nature (the flesh) and the new, Spirit-empowered nature. This verse vividly portrays the **Opposing Desires** of these two forces, highlighting that the Christian life is not a passive state but an active, ongoing engagement against internal sin. This tension underscores the theme of **Sanctification**, the process by which believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ, which is a work of the Holy Spirit, not human effort or legalistic adherence. It reinforces the theme of **Christian Liberty**, emphasizing that true freedom is not license to sin but freedom *from* sin's dominion, enabled by the Spirit. The verse also implicitly highlights the **Necessity of the Holy Spirit** for Christian living, as it is only through yielding to and walking in the Spirit that believers can overcome the desires of the flesh and bear the fruit of righteousness, as outlined in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"). This internal struggle is a universal experience for believers, echoing the personal wrestling described by Paul in [Romans 7:14-25](/romans/7-14-25 "Romans 7:14-25 - The Struggle with Sin").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Flesh (Greek, _sárx'_):** G4561, from the base of σαρόω; flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties (physically or morally) and passions), or (specially), a human being (as such):--carnal(-ly, + -ly minded), flesh(-ly). In this context, "flesh" does not merely refer to the physical body, but rather to the unredeemed, fallen human nature, the sinful disposition that remains even in the regenerated believer. It is the seat of desires and impulses that are contrary to God's will and the Spirit's leading.
* **Lusteth (Greek, _epithyméō'_):** G1937, from ἐπί and θυμός; to set the heart upon, i.e. long for (rightfully or otherwise):--covet, desire, would fain, lust (after). This word denotes a strong desire or craving. While it can be used positively (e.g., to desire good things), in this context, when applied to the flesh, it carries the negative connotation of sinful craving or longing, emphasizing the intense, aggressive nature of the flesh's opposition to the Spirit.
* **Spirit (Greek, _pneûma'_):** G4151, from πνέω; a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit:--ghost, life, spirit(-ual, -ually), mind. Here, "Spirit" unequivocally refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who indwells every believer upon conversion. He is the divine power and presence that enables believers to live righteously and overcome the power of sin.
* **Contrary (Greek, _antíkeimai'_):** G480, from ἀντί and κεῖμαι; to lie opposite, i.e. be adverse (figuratively, repugnant) to:--adversary, be contrary, oppose. This term highlights the absolute and irreconcilable opposition between the flesh and the Spirit. They are not merely different; they are fundamentally at odds, constantly in conflict, seeking to thwart each other's aims.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit,"**: This clause introduces the primary antagonist in the believer's internal life. The "flesh," representing the fallen, unredeemed human nature, actively and intensely desires things that are opposed to God's will. This "lusting" is not passive but an aggressive craving, indicating a persistent inclination toward sin.
* **"and the Spirit against the flesh:"**: This parallel clause clarifies that the opposition is reciprocal. The Holy Spirit, indwelling the believer, also has desires and aims, and these are directly contrary to the sinful desires of the flesh. This signifies that the Spirit is not passive in this conflict but actively works within the believer to counter the influence of sin and to promote righteousness.
* **"and these are contrary the one to the other:"**: This statement explicitly defines the nature of the relationship between the flesh and the Spirit. They are fundamentally antithetical, incapable of coexistence in harmony. Their desires and objectives are diametrically opposed, leading to an inevitable and continuous struggle within the believer. This highlights the profound theological reality that a believer's life is a battlefield.
* **"so that ye cannot do the things that ye would."**: This concluding phrase describes the practical consequence of this internal warfare. Because of the constant tension and opposition between the flesh and the Spirit, believers find themselves unable to consistently and perfectly fulfill their righteous desires or the will of God, even when they genuinely want to. This does not imply an inability to choose good or obey God at all, but rather the difficulty in achieving perfect, unhindered obedience due to the persistent pull of the sinful nature. It explains the struggle Paul himself describes in [Romans 7:19](/romans/7-19 "Romans 7:19 - The Law and Sin").

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in Galatians 5:17 to vividly portray the internal struggle. **Personification** is evident as "the flesh" and "the Spirit" are depicted as active agents, each with desires ("lusteth") and engaging in a direct adversarial relationship ("against," "contrary"). This gives abstract concepts a dynamic, almost living quality, making the conflict tangible. The verse also heavily relies on **Antithesis**, presenting a stark and absolute opposition between two forces—flesh and Spirit—whose desires are mutually exclusive. This creates a dramatic tension that underscores the gravity of the internal battle. Furthermore, the concept of "lusting against" can be seen as a **Metaphor** for a spiritual battle or warfare, where two opposing armies (or principles) are locked in a struggle for dominance within the believer's soul. These devices collectively serve to emphasize the intensity, pervasiveness, and irreconcilable nature of the conflict, impressing upon the reader the reality of this spiritual dynamic.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Galatians 5:17 is a foundational text for understanding the dynamics of sanctification in the Christian life. It reveals that the believer's journey is not one of immediate perfection or effortless righteousness, but an ongoing process marked by an internal, spiritual conflict. The "flesh" represents the lingering power of sin, the old nature inherited from Adam, which continues to exert its influence even after conversion. The "Spirit," however, is the divine power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers the believer to resist sin and pursue righteousness. This verse teaches that this struggle is normal and expected for every Christian, not a sign of spiritual failure, but a testament to the presence of both the old and new natures. Victory in this conflict is not achieved through self-effort, legalistic rules, or suppression of the body, but by consciously choosing to yield to the Holy Spirit's leading and power, allowing Him to produce His fruit in one's life. This ongoing battle highlights the continuous need for God's grace and the Spirit's enablement in the believer's walk.

* [Romans 7:14-25](/romans/7-14-25 "Romans 7:14-25 - The Struggle with Sin")
* [Romans 8:5-8](/romans/8-5-8 "Romans 8:5-8 - Mind Set on the Spirit vs. Flesh")
* [1 Peter 2:11](/1_peter/2-11 "1 Peter 2:11 - Abstain from Fleshly Lusts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Galatians 5:17 offers profound comfort and practical guidance for every believer navigating the complexities of the Christian life. It normalizes the internal struggle with sin, assuring us that the persistent pull of the flesh is a universal experience, not an indication of a deficient faith. This understanding liberates us from the condemnation of feeling like we are "failing" when we encounter inner conflict, instead reframing it as an expected part of the spiritual journey. The verse powerfully reminds us that victory over the flesh is not achieved through sheer willpower, self-discipline, or adherence to external rules, but through dependence on the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. Our daily walk becomes a conscious choice to "walk in the Spirit" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walking by the Spirit")), yielding to His promptings, immersing ourselves in God's Word, engaging in prayer, and cultivating spiritual disciplines that strengthen our connection to Him. It encourages us to embrace humility, recognizing our continued need for grace, and to press forward in sanctification, knowing that the Spirit within us is greater than the sinful desires that assail us. This verse calls us to a life of active reliance on God, fostering a deeper intimacy with the Spirit as our source of strength and guidance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the conflict between the flesh and the Spirit impact your view of your own struggles with sin?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "walk in the Spirit" and yield to His desires daily, especially in areas where you feel the tension of the flesh most acutely?**
* **In what ways does the truth of Galatians 5:17 encourage you to rely more fully on God's grace and the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own efforts?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean believers are incapable of doing good or obeying God?**

Answer: No, Galatians 5:17 does not imply a complete inability to do good or obey God. Rather, it describes the *tension* and *difficulty* in consistently and perfectly fulfilling one's righteous desires due to the persistent opposition of the flesh. The phrase "so that ye cannot do the things that ye would" highlights the internal friction that prevents unhindered, perfect obedience. It means that the flesh's desires are so strong and contrary to the Spirit's that a believer cannot flawlessly or effortlessly live out their regenerated will. This struggle underscores the need to actively "walk by the Spirit" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walking by the Spirit")), which is the means by which believers *can* overcome the flesh and bear spiritual fruit.

**What is the "flesh" in this context? Is it just the physical body?**

Answer: In Galatians 5:17 and much of Paul's writings, "flesh" (Greek: _sárx_) is far more than just the physical body. It refers to the fallen, unregenerate human nature, the sinful disposition that remains even in a believer after conversion. It represents humanity's inherent inclination towards sin and rebellion against God, apart from the empowering influence of the Holy Spirit. While the body can be an instrument of the flesh's desires, the "flesh" itself is a comprehensive term for the sinful principle that operates within us, encompassing our sinful thoughts, desires, and actions, as opposed to the Spirit-led life.

**How does this verse relate to "walking in the Spirit" from the previous verse?**

Answer: Galatians 5:17 provides the crucial explanation for the command given in [Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walking by the Spirit"): "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." Verse 17 explains *why* this command is necessary and *why* it is a constant challenge. Because the flesh and the Spirit are in direct opposition, there is an ongoing war within the believer. Therefore, to avoid gratifying the desires of the flesh, one must actively and intentionally choose to "walk by the Spirit"—to yield to His guidance, power, and desires. Verse 17 clarifies the nature of the battle that necessitates the Spirit-filled walk.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Galatians 5:17, while describing an ongoing internal conflict, finds its ultimate resolution and hope in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very reason this struggle exists is because Christ, through His atoning death, broke the dominion of sin and the flesh, and through His resurrection, inaugurated a new life in the Spirit. Before Christ, humanity was wholly enslaved to the flesh, unable to "do the things that they would" because there was no Spirit to empower them against their fallen nature. But Christ's sacrifice on the cross condemned sin in the flesh ([Romans 8:3](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3 - God Condemned Sin in the Flesh")), providing the means for believers to be set free from its power. Moreover, Christ, having ascended, sent the Holy Spirit to indwell believers ([John 16:7](/john/16-7 "John 16:7 - The Helper Will Come")), making the conflict described in Galatians 5:17 possible. The Spirit's presence signifies that the believer is no longer merely "in the flesh" but "in the Spirit" ([Romans 8:9](/romans/8-9 "Romans 8:9 - You Are in the Spirit")). The ongoing battle, therefore, is not a sign of defeat but a testament to the Spirit's active work of sanctification, progressively conforming believers to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")). While the tension remains in this life, the believer's victory is assured in Christ, who empowers them through His Spirit to "put to death the deeds of the body" ([Romans 8:13](/romans/8-13 "Romans 8:13 - Living by the Spirit")) and live a life where "it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me" ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Christ Lives in Me")). The ultimate fulfillment of this struggle awaits the believer's glorification, when the flesh will be fully vanquished, and they will be perfectly conformed to Christ's likeness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 8:13

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

John 3:6

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Romans 8:5

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Romans 8:8

So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Matthew 26:41

Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak.

Psalms 119:20

¶ My soul breaketh for the longing [that it hath] unto thy judgments at all times.

Ecclesiastes 7:20

For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.