Lutheran Lens Commentary: Galatians 5:22-23 (Fruit of the Spirit)

## Lutheran Lens Reading of Galatians 5:22-23 (Fruit of the Spirit)

### Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Galatians 5:22-23 through the lens of Law and Gospel, understanding the 'fruit of the Spirit' as the result of the Gospel's work in us, not as a new law to fulfill through our own efforts. This passage is Gospel because it declares what the Holy Spirit produces in us, not what we must produce for God. It assures us that, due to our justification by faith alone, the Holy Spirit is actively at work in us, transforming us despite our simul justus et peccator condition. In this way, it highlights sanctification as a natural outflow of justification, emphasizing the theology of the cross where God works through our weakness to manifest His strength.

### Key Language Decisions