Key Truth
Walking does not give us life; it demonstrates the life we have received.
Galatians 5:25
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”
Living and Walking Together
Living Answers:
- Have I received spiritual life from Christ?
- Am I born again?
- Do I belong to Christ?
- Has God made me alive through His Spirit?
Walking Answers:
- Am I obeying God’s leading today?
- Am I growing in Christlikeness?
- Am I keeping in step with the Holy Spirit?
- Is the fruit of the Spirit evident in my life?
A Simple Illustration
Living
- A baby is born.
- Life is received.
Walking
- The child learns to walk.
- Growth and development follow.
Likewise:
- Living in the Spirit is receiving new life through Christ.
- Walking in the Spirit is learning to follow Christ day by day.
Summary Statement
Living in the Spirit is the gift of salvation.
Walking in the Spirit is the practice of discipleship.
Living is our position in Christ; walking is our daily progression with Christ.
The Failure of Formation
Formation fails when we focus on outward activity without inward transformation.
1. We Learn Christianity Without Following Christ
A person may:
- Know doctrine
- Attend church
- Serve in ministry
- Speak Christian language
Yet still fail to follow the Spirit.