The problem in the Galatian church was two-fold. As we’ve already outlined, the Jewish Christians were loading laws on top of grace. However, this was causing a huge divide in the church. Here in Galatians 6, Paul addresses this divide by focusing on both the corporate and individual responsibility of believers.
1. corporate: restore him gently2. individual: watch yourself3. corporate: carry each other’s burdens4. individual: each one should test his own actions… each one should carry his own load5. corporate: share all good things with his instructor6. individual: do not be deceived… a man reaps what he sows7. corporate: do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers(IVP New Testament Commentary)
This is a message to those who are filled with the Spirit. They are ones who must pave the way toward reconciliation, accountability, and restoration. It is often said the church should be a hospital, not a country club. It can’t be a hospital without doctors. True Spirit-led believers must pave the way for spiritual maturity and the equipping for service. This cannot be done until reconciliation takes place.
Gentleness, humility, self-control is the key. So many who attempt to correct others lead with arrogance and anger. This is exactly why the Galatian church was struggling with “biting and devouring one another.”
Another key element of this chapter is Paul’s focus on the responsibility of every Spirit-led believer. In many churches today, the majority of the responsibilities fall upon leadership or a small percentage of the congregation. Paul makes the point that every believer who is filled with the Spirit has a responsibility to serve and exercise their gifts. However, on top of this, every believer must examine themselves to make sure they are walking in the Spirit.