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 Read Galatians 6.

In chapter five, we are told that believers are free from the Old Testament Law.  However, our freedom is not a mere state of being.  It is to be displayed in our actions toward one another.  "Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.  For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" (5:13-14)  The key to this new way of life is to be filled with (controlled by) the Holy Spirit (5:16).

But some in Galatia were not behaving in the Spirit (5:25). 

Genuine followers of Christ are not perfect people without problems.  They are forgiven people who are learning how to respond to their problems in a godly way.  Our correct responses are proofs we are filled with the Spirit.

The question, then, comes, how should we respond to a fellow believer when they yield to sin?

Here, Paul implements the instructions of Jesus from Matthew 18:15-20.  The correction is to be done gently with the sole purpose of restoration.  Those taking the initiative are to be certain that the Holy Spirit is in control and manifesting the description of such from 5:22-24.  When we love others enough to help them mature in their faith like this we are not being legalistic.  We are fulfilling "the law of Christ" (6:2).

Why does this not take place more often?  Some who claim they are Christians do not attend a local church.  Some who do attend do not join the church family and become connected.  Some who do attend regularly do not let others know about them and they do not get to know others on a personal level.  Without the benefit of a mutually caring group of other believers, we rob ourselves of spiritual growth and we rob others of our ministry to them.

This provides another reason why a person who is not building relationships in a local church will stunt their spiritual growth.  Repeatedly in Scripture, we are admonished that each of us needs the reciprocating love, care, and accountability of other committed believers in Jesus.