聖經是我們獨一無二的標準 - 生命.. 結晶.. 啓示

Meaning

Paul indicates that “walking by the Spirit” is not abstract or theoretical but can be verified through three things: whether we are vainglorious, provoking one another, or envying one another. To overcome these shows we are truly walking by the Spirit.

Reason

Vainglory belongs to the flesh and is the root of provoking and envy (Gal. 5:26). From Paul’s practical experience in church and family life, he saw that these issues destroy fellowship, relationships, and peace. Thus, they are reliable tests of our walk by the Spirit.

Examples

1. In brothers’ or sisters’ houses: someone desires to lead, causing strife.
2. In meetings: after one sister gives a rich testimony, another envies and determines to give a “better” one next time.
3. In marriage: a brother becomes jealous when his wife receives praise and he does not.
4. In service: a brother is jealous when a younger one is appointed as an elder.

Application

1. In church life: deal with vainglory to avoid rivalry and maintain peace.
2. In family life: put aside vainglory for genuine mutual submission and respect.
3. In daily life: examine ourselves whether vainglory, provoking, or envy are present.
4. In spiritual pursuit: focus on terminating vainglory rather than superficially addressing envy or provoking.

Related Scriptures

- Gal. 3:26: “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.”
- Phil. 2:3: “Do nothing by rivalry nor by vainglory, but in humility of mind considering one another more excellent than yourselves.”
- James 3:16: “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil practice.”