1. Galatians 5:18 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What does it mean to be led by the Spirit?

Galatians 5:18 (ESV)

18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

To be led by the Spirit means that one no longer belongs to the era of the old covenant.1 We are now living in the time where Jeremiah’s prophetic word has been fulfilled (see Hebrews 8:8–12). The guidance provided by the Spirit is not so much about daily decision making but direction in moral living.2 The constant and beneficial influence that he exercises in the hearts of God’s children is to direct them more and more to fight against their sinful desires, and cheerfully walk in the way of God’s commandments.3 In response to this influence, the believer is called to make a conscious commitment and effort to follow the Spirit’s lead.4