Sermon text: Galatians 5:16 - 24

Series: Life in the Spirit

Theme: Walking in the Spirit

When children are baptised in our church the parents make a promise to show their children what it means to live as a Christian. This promise is more than just being a good citizen. When Paul writes to the churches in Galatia (modern day Turkey), he encourages them to walk in the Spirit. This means putting away the things of the sinful nature. Teaching children what holy living is, is also the promise parents make. We can teach this Bible passage to our children by encouraging them to talk about their feelings and showing them how God desires us to live according to the gifts of the Holy Spirit. When a child gets angry, for example, ask them why they are angry and if there is a better way to act according to the fruits of God’s Spirit. As our children mature, we can take this passage deeper by talking about some of the heavier themes raised by Paul. When we teach on areas like this we must always proclaim the gospel clearly; Jesus Christ forgives us for the times we ‘stuff up’ and he gives us the Holy Spirit to help us follow him. Include in your evening prayers this week a prayer for the Holy Spirit to help your family display the fruits of the Spirit.

Talk it over

How does our family walk by the Spirit? Where do we struggle?

What fruits of the Spirit are the most difficult for you to display in your life?

How can our family grow in one fruit this week?