Galatians 5:23

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Meekness {G4236}, temperance {G1466}: against {G2596} such {G5108} there is {G2076} no {G3756} law {G3551}.

humility, self control. Nothing in the Torah stands against such things.

gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

meekness, self-control; against such there is no law.

Galatians 5:23 concludes the apostle Paul's enumeration of the "fruit of the Spirit," presenting the final two virtues: meekness and temperance, followed by the profound declaration, "against such there is no law." This verse encapsulates the essence of a life transformed and led by the Holy Spirit, offering a stark contrast to the self-indulgent "works of the flesh" previously detailed.

Context of Galatians 5:23

This verse is the culmination of a pivotal section in Paul's letter to the Galatians, where he passionately argues for freedom in Christ and warns against falling back into legalism. After outlining the destructive "works of the flesh" in Galatians 5:19-21, Paul introduces the nine manifestations of the "fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians 5:22-23. The entire chapter emphasizes the ongoing spiritual battle within believers and the call to "walk in the Spirit" rather than fulfilling the desires of the flesh.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Meekness (Gentleness): The Greek word for meekness is prautes (πραΰτης), which signifies not weakness or timidity, but rather strength under control. It's a humble and gentle disposition, especially in dealing with others, even those who oppose or offend. It's the opposite of self-assertiveness or arrogance. This quality is seen supremely in Christ Himself (Matthew 11:29) and is promised to those who possess it (Matthew 5:5).
  • Temperance (Self-Control): The Greek enkrateia (ἐγκράτεια) denotes mastery over one's own desires, passions, and impulses. It refers to a disciplined life, where the believer, empowered by the Spirit, is able to resist temptation and live according to God's will rather than being enslaved by worldly appetites. This spiritual discipline is vital for all aspects of Christian living, from speech and thoughts to physical desires and reactions. It's a quality that grows as believers mature (2 Peter 1:6).
  • Against Such There Is No Law: This powerful statement signifies that these spiritual qualities do not violate any law, nor do they require legalistic enforcement. The law is designed to expose sin and condemn wrongdoing (Romans 7:7), but virtues like meekness and temperance are inherently good and beneficial. A life characterized by the fruit of the Spirit transcends the need for external regulation because it is guided by an internal, divine principle. When one lives by the Spirit, the righteous requirements of the law are naturally fulfilled (Romans 8:4).

Practical Application and Significance

Galatians 5:23 reminds believers that spiritual growth is not merely about avoiding sin, but actively cultivating virtues that reflect the character of God. Meekness fosters healthy relationships and a teachable spirit, while temperance enables steadfastness and resilience in a challenging world. These qualities are not achieved through human effort alone but are the supernatural outgrowth of the Holy Spirit's work within those who yield to Him. Cultivating these fruits means daily surrender, prayer, and intentional choices to live in accordance with God's Word, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ in everyday life.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Timothy 1:9

    Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

  • Acts 24:25

    And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

  • Titus 2:2

    That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

  • Titus 1:8

    But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

  • 1 Corinthians 9:25

    And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
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