It’s not clear exactly what Paul meant with this phrase. Some argue that he is emphasizing the fact that godly qualities (fruits
) come from the Spirit and not the law itself (see Galatians 3:21).1 More likely, he is making a comparison between the fruits of the Spirit and the works of the flesh. Where societies often attempt to restrain the works of the flesh through various laws (see 1 Timothy 1:9),2 there are no laws that seek to limit the fruit of the Spirit. Indeed, the fruit of the Spirit are virtues to be pursued (see 2 Peter 1:4–8).3 The kind of conduct Paul has in mind is such that all lawmakers everywhere want to promote.4
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.