Galatians 5:24 Meaning: Crucified But Still Struggling?

The Greek word translated 'have crucified' is estaurōsan, an aorist tense verb. That means it points to a single, completed action in the past with results that last into the present. When you gave your life to Christ, something real and decisive happened to your old sinful nature. It was put to death with Him.

But the 'flesh' here (sarx) is not your physical body. It is the part of you that wants to rebel against God, your selfish, self-centered nature. And the 'passions' and 'lusts' (pathēmasin and epithumiais) are not ordinary desires. They are the disordered cravings that try to run your life. The good news is that on the cross, Christ condemned that whole system. It has lost its death-grip on you. That is the truth this verse invites you to trust and live from.

Christians across traditions agree this verse announces a real break with sin's power. In the Wesleyan tradition, many read it as a promise of entire sanctification, the flesh can be so crucified that a believer is set free from inward sin. Reformed interpreters emphasize that the flesh is still present but dethroned; believers must daily put it to death by the Spirit, as Romans 8:13 makes clear. Catholic teaching sees this crucifixion as the start of a lifelong process of transformation through grace, worked out in cooperation with the Spirit. What unites them: union with Christ makes the decisive change possible, and living it out requires our ongoing trust and effort.

Some read 'have crucified' and conclude the flesh is dead forever, no more struggle with sin. In fact, the Greek aorist tense describes a past act with continuing effects, not an instant disappearance of all temptation. Paul himself tells the Romans, 'If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live' (Romans 8:13). The crucifixion of the flesh is a decisive blow at conversion, but the daily battle remains. Sin has lost its authority, not its voice.

This week, when a familiar sin tempts you, anger, envy, lust, pride, pause and remind yourself: that desire has already been crucified with Christ. It has no right to tell you what to do. You belong to a different kingdom now. Then take one concrete step to walk by the Spirit instead: step away from the situation, pray a simple cry for help, or call a friend who will encourage you. The battle feels real, but the decisive war has already been won. Live like someone who knows it.