Paul has continually pleaded with the Galatians not to live under the slavery of the Law but to embrace the freedom of the gospel and this week we see another reason why he cares so much about this. If we live under the Law we are tempted to view other people who get caught in sin as inferior. Maybe we are even tempted to profit of their sinfulness by letting it justify our own sin, “at least I’m not that bad” or magnify our victories, “I have mastered what other people failed”. But Paul says to live by the Spirit means that when a brother or sister stumbles in sin our heart should reflect something very different than spiteful pride.
Galatians 5:25-6:5
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.