The Works of the Flesh

¹⁶ Live by the Spirit, I say, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh.^{(A) 17} For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit desires is opposed to the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you want.^{(B) 18} But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law.^{(C) 19} Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery,^{(D) 20} idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, ²¹ envy,^[a] drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.^(E)

The Fruit of the Spirit

²² By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness,^{(F) 23} gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. ²⁴ And those who belong to Christ^[b] have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.^{(G) 25} If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. ²⁶ Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another.

Bear One Another’s Burdens

6 My brothers and sisters, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. ² Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill^[c] the law of Christ.^{(H) 3} For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves.^{(I) 4} All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride.^{(J) 5} For all must carry their own loads.