Galatians: 5:13-26
The Story: Paul brings his argument to the crux of the matter. We have been born for freedom, that's God's design. However, that freedom is not a license to feed our own desires or the desires of the flesh. When confronted with an area of sin, people may say that we should not forget grace. True, but grace is not a "way out" so that we can continue in a pattern of sinfulness.
How do we identify the sinful nature? In Galatians 5:16-21 we see that without a commitment to follow the Spirit we easily fall into a pattern that desires the flesh. To be clear, Paul provides a partial list (Galatians 5:19-21) of attitudes and actions of the sinful nature.
The Key Truth: Galatians 5:16 - Live by the Spirit and you will not carry out the sins of the flesh.
The Application: Rather than using grace as a license to sin, embrace it as your guide and teacher (Titus 2:11-12) to behave in accordance to the Spirit. What's at stake? Paul describes the serious of the matter in Galatians 5:21 in that those who live in accordance to the flesh do not inherit the kingdom of God. Do not excuse your sinful actions and lifestyle away by showing your "grace" card. In a final warning, Paul looks to the self-righteous and warns them not to be pious or arrogant and don't be jealous of others. The point being that we should keep our focus on our own faith journey.
Romans 8 - Outline