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1. first, the greeting,
1:1
 
Chapter 1
1 Paul, an apostle, not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead:
2 And all the brethren who are with me: to the churches of Galatia.
3 Grace be to you, and peace from God the Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ,
4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present wicked world, according to the will of God and our Father:
5 To whom is glory for ever and ever. Amen.
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2. second, the setting forth of the epistle message
 
 
Chapter 1
6 I wonder that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel.
7 Which is not another: only there are some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema.
9 As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema.
10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
11 For I give you to understand, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man.
12 For neither did I receive it of man: nor did I learn it but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion: how that, beyond measure, I persecuted the church of God and wasted it.
14 And I made progress in the Jew’s religion above many of my equals in my own nation, being more abundantly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
15 But when it pleased him who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace,
16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the Gentiles: immediately I condescended not to flesh and blood.
17 Neither went I to Jerusalem, to the apostles who were before me: but I went into Arabia, and again I returned to Damascus.
18 Then, after three years, I went to Jerusalem to see Peter: and I tarried with him fifteen days.
19 But other of the apostles I saw none, saving James the brother of the Lord.
20 Now the things which I write to you, behold, before God, I lie not.
21 Afterwards, I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.
22 And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea, which were in Christ:
23 But they had heard only: He, who persecuted us in times past doth now preach the faith which once he impugned.
24 And they glorified God in me.
Chapter 2
1 Then, after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus also with me.
2 And I went up according to revelation and communicated to them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles: but apart to them who seemed to be some thing: lest perhaps I should run or had run in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Gentile, was compelled to be circumcised.
4 But because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privately to spy our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into servitude.
5 To whom we yielded not by subjection: no, not for an hour: that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
6 But of them who seemed to be some thing, (what they were some time it is nothing to me, God accepteth not the person of man): for to me they that seemed to be some thing added nothing.
7 But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.
8 (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)
9 And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision:
10 Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also I was careful to do.
11 But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that some came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them who were of the circumcision.
13 And to his dissimulation the rest of the Jews consented: so that Barnabas also was led by them into that dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly unto the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all: If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of the Gentiles and not as the Jews do, how dost thou compel the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
15 We by nature are Jews: and not of the Gentiles, sinners.
16 But knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we also believe in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law: because by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.
17 But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ then the minister of sin? God forbid!
18 For if I build up again the things which I have destroyed, I make myself a prevaricator.
19 For I, through the law, am dead to the law, that I may live to God; with Christ I am nailed to the cross.
20 And I live, now not I: but Christ liveth in me. And that I live now in the flesh: I live in the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and delivered himself for me.
21 I cast not away the grace of God. For if justice be by the law, then Christ died in vain.
Chapter 3
1 O senseless Galatians, who hath bewitched you that you should not obey the truth: before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been set forth, crucified among you?
2 This only would I learn of you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith?
3 Are you so foolish that, whereas you began in the Spirit, you would now be made perfect by the flesh?
4 Have you suffered so great things in vain? If it be yet in vain.
5 He therefore who giveth to you the Spirit and worketh miracles among you: doth he do it by the works of the law or by the hearing of the faith?
6 As it is written: Abraham believed God: and it was reputed to him unto justice.
7 Know ye, therefore, that they who are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God justifieth the Gentiles by faith, told unto Abraham before: In thee shall all nations be blessed.
9 Therefore, they that are of faith shall be blessed with faithful Abraham.
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse. For it is written: Cursed is every one that abideth, not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that in the law no man is justified with God, it is manifest: because the just man liveth by faith.
12 But the law is not of faith: but he that doth those things shall live in them.
13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us (for it is written: Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree).
14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus: that we may receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
15 Brethren (I speak after the manner of man), yet a man’s testament, if it be confirmed, no man despiseth nor addeth to it.
16 To Abraham were the promises made and to his seed. He saith not: And to his seeds as of many. But as of one: And to thy seed, which is Christ.
17 Now this I say: that the testament which was confirmed by God, the law which was made after four hundred and thirty years doth not disannul, to make the promise of no effect.
18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise. But God gave it to Abraham by promise.
19 Why then was the law? It was set because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom he made the promise, being ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
20 Now a mediator is not of one: but God is one.
21 Was the law then against the promises of God: God forbid! For if there had been a law given which could give life, verily justice should have been by the law.
22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise, by the faith of Jesus Christ, might be given to them that believe.
23 But before the faith came, we were kept under the law shut up, unto that faith which was to be revealed.
24 Wherefore the law was our pedagogue in Christ: that we might be justified by faith.
25 But after the faith is come, we are no longer under a pedagogue.
26 For you are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus.
27 For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek: there is neither bond nor free: there is neither male nor female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
29 And if you be Christ’s, then are you the seed of Abraham, heirs according to the promise.
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
Chapter 5
1 Stand fast and be not held again under the yoke of bondage.
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Chapter 6
1 Brethren, and if a man be overtaken in any fault, you, who are spiritual, instruct such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
2 Bear ye one another’s burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of Christ.
3 For if any man think himself to be some thing, whereas he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4 But let every one prove his own work: and so he shall have glory in himself only and not in another.
5 For every one shall bear his own burden.
6 And let him that is instructed in the word communicate to him that instructeth him, in all good things.
7 Be not deceived: God is not mocked.
8 For what things a man shall sow, those also shall he reap. For he that soweth in his flesh of the flesh also shall reap corruption. But he that soweth in the spirit of the spirit shall reap life everlasting.
9 And in doing good, let us not fail. For in due time we shall reap, not failing.
10 Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work good to all men, but especially to those who are of the household of the faith.
11 See what a letter I have written to you with my own hand.
12 For as many as desire to please in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer the persecution of the cross of Christ.
13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law: but they will have you to be circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.
15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but a new creature.
16 And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on them and mercy: and upon the Israel of God.
17 From henceforth let no man be troublesome to me: for I bear the marks of the Lord Jesus in my body.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.
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1. first, the apostle refutes their error
1:6
16
Chapter 1
6 I wonder that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel.
7 Which is not another: only there are some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema.
9 As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema.
10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
11 For I give you to understand, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man.
12 For neither did I receive it of man: nor did I learn it but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion: how that, beyond measure, I persecuted the church of God and wasted it.
14 And I made progress in the Jew’s religion above many of my equals in my own nation, being more abundantly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
15 But when it pleased him who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace,
16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the Gentiles: immediately I condescended not to flesh and blood.
17 Neither went I to Jerusalem, to the apostles who were before me: but I went into Arabia, and again I returned to Damascus.
18 Then, after three years, I went to Jerusalem to see Peter: and I tarried with him fifteen days.
19 But other of the apostles I saw none, saving James the brother of the Lord.
20 Now the things which I write to you, behold, before God, I lie not.
21 Afterwards, I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.
22 And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea, which were in Christ:
23 But they had heard only: He, who persecuted us in times past doth now preach the faith which once he impugned.
24 And they glorified God in me.
Chapter 2
1 Then, after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus also with me.
2 And I went up according to revelation and communicated to them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles: but apart to them who seemed to be some thing: lest perhaps I should run or had run in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Gentile, was compelled to be circumcised.
4 But because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privately to spy our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into servitude.
5 To whom we yielded not by subjection: no, not for an hour: that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
6 But of them who seemed to be some thing, (what they were some time it is nothing to me, God accepteth not the person of man): for to me they that seemed to be some thing added nothing.
7 But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.
8 (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)
9 And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision:
10 Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also I was careful to do.
11 But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that some came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them who were of the circumcision.
13 And to his dissimulation the rest of the Jews consented: so that Barnabas also was led by them into that dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly unto the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all: If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of the Gentiles and not as the Jews do, how dost thou compel the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
15 We by nature are Jews: and not of the Gentiles, sinners.
16 But knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we also believe in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law: because by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.
17 But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ then the minister of sin? God forbid!
18 For if I build up again the things which I have destroyed, I make myself a prevaricator.
19 For I, through the law, am dead to the law, that I may live to God; with Christ I am nailed to the cross.
20 And I live, now not I: but Christ liveth in me. And that I live now in the flesh: I live in the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and delivered himself for me.
21 I cast not away the grace of God. For if justice be by the law, then Christ died in vain.
Chapter 3
1 O senseless Galatians, who hath bewitched you that you should not obey the truth: before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been set forth, crucified among you?
2 This only would I learn of you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith?
3 Are you so foolish that, whereas you began in the Spirit, you would now be made perfect by the flesh?
4 Have you suffered so great things in vain? If it be yet in vain.
5 He therefore who giveth to you the Spirit and worketh miracles among you: doth he do it by the works of the law or by the hearing of the faith?
6 As it is written: Abraham believed God: and it was reputed to him unto justice.
7 Know ye, therefore, that they who are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God justifieth the Gentiles by faith, told unto Abraham before: In thee shall all nations be blessed.
9 Therefore, they that are of faith shall be blessed with faithful Abraham.
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse. For it is written: Cursed is every one that abideth, not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that in the law no man is justified with God, it is manifest: because the just man liveth by faith.
12 But the law is not of faith: but he that doth those things shall live in them.
13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us (for it is written: Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree).
14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus: that we may receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
15 Brethren (I speak after the manner of man), yet a man’s testament, if it be confirmed, no man despiseth nor addeth to it.
16 To Abraham were the promises made and to his seed. He saith not: And to his seeds as of many. But as of one: And to thy seed, which is Christ.
17 Now this I say: that the testament which was confirmed by God, the law which was made after four hundred and thirty years doth not disannul, to make the promise of no effect.
18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise. But God gave it to Abraham by promise.
19 Why then was the law? It was set because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom he made the promise, being ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
20 Now a mediator is not of one: but God is one.
21 Was the law then against the promises of God: God forbid! For if there had been a law given which could give life, verily justice should have been by the law.
22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise, by the faith of Jesus Christ, might be given to them that believe.
23 But before the faith came, we were kept under the law shut up, unto that faith which was to be revealed.
24 Wherefore the law was our pedagogue in Christ: that we might be justified by faith.
25 But after the faith is come, we are no longer under a pedagogue.
26 For you are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus.
27 For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek: there is neither bond nor free: there is neither male nor female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
29 And if you be Christ’s, then are you the seed of Abraham, heirs according to the promise.
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
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1. first, he refutes their error on the authority of the gospel message
 
 
Chapter 1
6 I wonder that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel.
7 Which is not another: only there are some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema.
9 As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema.
10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
11 For I give you to understand, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man.
12 For neither did I receive it of man: nor did I learn it but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion: how that, beyond measure, I persecuted the church of God and wasted it.
14 And I made progress in the Jew’s religion above many of my equals in my own nation, being more abundantly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
15 But when it pleased him who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace,
16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the Gentiles: immediately I condescended not to flesh and blood.
17 Neither went I to Jerusalem, to the apostles who were before me: but I went into Arabia, and again I returned to Damascus.
18 Then, after three years, I went to Jerusalem to see Peter: and I tarried with him fifteen days.
19 But other of the apostles I saw none, saving James the brother of the Lord.
20 Now the things which I write to you, behold, before God, I lie not.
21 Afterwards, I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.
22 And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea, which were in Christ:
23 But they had heard only: He, who persecuted us in times past doth now preach the faith which once he impugned.
24 And they glorified God in me.
Chapter 2
1 Then, after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus also with me.
2 And I went up according to revelation and communicated to them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles: but apart to them who seemed to be some thing: lest perhaps I should run or had run in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Gentile, was compelled to be circumcised.
4 But because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privately to spy our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into servitude.
5 To whom we yielded not by subjection: no, not for an hour: that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
6 But of them who seemed to be some thing, (what they were some time it is nothing to me, God accepteth not the person of man): for to me they that seemed to be some thing added nothing.
7 But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.
8 (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)
9 And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision:
10 Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also I was careful to do.
11 But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that some came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them who were of the circumcision.
13 And to his dissimulation the rest of the Jews consented: so that Barnabas also was led by them into that dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly unto the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all: If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of the Gentiles and not as the Jews do, how dost thou compel the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
15 We by nature are Jews: and not of the Gentiles, sinners.
16 But knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we also believe in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law: because by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.
17 But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ then the minister of sin? God forbid!
18 For if I build up again the things which I have destroyed, I make myself a prevaricator.
19 For I, through the law, am dead to the law, that I may live to God; with Christ I am nailed to the cross.
20 And I live, now not I: but Christ liveth in me. And that I live now in the flesh: I live in the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and delivered himself for me.
21 I cast not away the grace of God. For if justice be by the law, then Christ died in vain.
*
1. first, by showing their fickleness in lightly dismissing the gospel teaching
 
 
>
2. second, by commending the authority or dignity of the gospel teaching, as he intimates that in view of the precious value of that which they so lightly regard, their error is seen to be so much the greater
1:11
 
*
1. first, he commends the authority of the gospel teaching itself
 
 
*
2. second, he commends the authority of the gospel teaching on the part both of the other apostles and himself, at then after fourteen years
2:1
 
V
>
2. second, by reason of the Old Testament; by reason and authority he proves the same thing, namely that the works of the law must not be observed
3:1
113
Chapter 3
1 O senseless Galatians, who hath bewitched you that you should not obey the truth: before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been set forth, crucified among you?
2 This only would I learn of you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith?
3 Are you so foolish that, whereas you began in the Spirit, you would now be made perfect by the flesh?
4 Have you suffered so great things in vain? If it be yet in vain.
5 He therefore who giveth to you the Spirit and worketh miracles among you: doth he do it by the works of the law or by the hearing of the faith?
6 As it is written: Abraham believed God: and it was reputed to him unto justice.
7 Know ye, therefore, that they who are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God justifieth the Gentiles by faith, told unto Abraham before: In thee shall all nations be blessed.
9 Therefore, they that are of faith shall be blessed with faithful Abraham.
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse. For it is written: Cursed is every one that abideth, not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that in the law no man is justified with God, it is manifest: because the just man liveth by faith.
12 But the law is not of faith: but he that doth those things shall live in them.
13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us (for it is written: Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree).
14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus: that we may receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
15 Brethren (I speak after the manner of man), yet a man’s testament, if it be confirmed, no man despiseth nor addeth to it.
16 To Abraham were the promises made and to his seed. He saith not: And to his seeds as of many. But as of one: And to thy seed, which is Christ.
17 Now this I say: that the testament which was confirmed by God, the law which was made after four hundred and thirty years doth not disannul, to make the promise of no effect.
18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise. But God gave it to Abraham by promise.
19 Why then was the law? It was set because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom he made the promise, being ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
20 Now a mediator is not of one: but God is one.
21 Was the law then against the promises of God: God forbid! For if there had been a law given which could give life, verily justice should have been by the law.
22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise, by the faith of Jesus Christ, might be given to them that believe.
23 But before the faith came, we were kept under the law shut up, unto that faith which was to be revealed.
24 Wherefore the law was our pedagogue in Christ: that we might be justified by faith.
25 But after the faith is come, we are no longer under a pedagogue.
26 For you are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus.
27 For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek: there is neither bond nor free: there is neither male nor female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
29 And if you be Christ’s, then are you the seed of Abraham, heirs according to the promise.
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
>
1. first, from the insufficiency of the law
 
 
*
1. first, he utters the rebuke
 
 
*
2. second, he begins his proof, at this only would I learn
3:2
 
V
>
2. second, from the dignity of those who have been converted to Christ; he shows here the dignity of grace
4:1
191
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
V
>
1. first, with a human example
 
 
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
V
>
1. first, he shows the pre-eminence of grace over the primitive state of the old law by a simile taken from human law
 
 
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
V
>
1. first, he lays down the simile, and he touches upon four things in the simile
 
192
Chapter 4
1 As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father.
V
>
1. first, eminence, because he speaks not of a servant but of an heir
 
 
Chapter 4
1a As long as the heir is a child,
*
1. first, this applies to the Jews
 
 
*
2. second, to Christ
 
 
V
>
2. second, smallness
 
193
Chapter 4
1a2 is a child,
>
1. first, because the Jews were children according to the state of the law
 
 
*
1. first, because the Jews were children according to the state of the law
 
 
*
2. second, who shall raise up Jacob, for he is a little one? (Amos 7:5)
 
 
*
2. second, Christ too was a child through the incarnation; for a child is born to us and a son is given to us (Isa 9:6)
 
 
>
3. third, but note that the Apostle sometimes compares the state of the law
 
 
>
1. first, to a child, as he does here
 
 
*
1. first, the reason for this is that the state of the old law, because of the imperfection of knowledge, is as a child
 
 
*
2. second, compared to the state of grace and truth which came through Christ
 
 
>
2. second, and sometimes to the state of the present life: when I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child (1 Cor 13:11)
 
 
*
1. first, in like manner, the state of the present life, in which we see through a mirror in a dark manner, is as a child
 
 
*
2. second, compared to the state of the future life, in which there is perfect knowledge of God, because he is seen as he is
 
 
V
>
3. third, subjection
 
194
Chapter 4
1b he differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all,
2a But is under tutors and governors
*
1. first, some Jews were servants really, but others were living like servants but actually lords
 
 
*
2. second, Christ too was like a servant
 
 
V
>
4. fourth, correspondence of time
 
196
Chapter 4
2b until the time appointed by the father.
*
1. first, there was a fixed time for the Jews to be under the law
 
 
*
2. second, there was a fixed time for Christ not to do miracles
 
 
V
>
2. second, he adapts it to his proposition, at so we also, when we were children
4:3
 
Chapter 4
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
V
>
1. first, he applies it regarding the Jews
4:3
 
Chapter 4
3 So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements of the world.
*
1. first, under the law which promised temporal things and threatened temporal punishments
 
 
*
2. second, or
 
 
*
3. third, or
 
 
V
>
2. second, regarding Christ
4:4
199
Chapter 4
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
V
>
1. first, he makes the application to Christ
 
 
Chapter 4
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law:
V
>
1. first, correspondence of time, at but when the fullness of the time was come
 
 
Chapter 4
4a But when the fulness of the time was come,
>
1. first, it should be noted
 
 
*
1. first, that above, in the simile he proposed, there were four items pointed out in order, as has been said
 
 
*
2. second, but now, in applying them to Christ, he begins with the last, namely, the fixing of a time; the reason for this is that the time in which Christ was humiliated and in which the faithful were exalted turns out to be the same
 
 
*
3. third, hence he says: but, when the fullness of the time was come, i.e., after the time fixed by God the Father for sending his Son had been accomplished; and this is how it is taken in Luke: her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered (Luke 2:6)
 
 
>
2. second, the meaning of fullness
 
200
*
1. first, it's called full because of the fullness of the graces that are given in it
 
 
*
2. second, it's called full because of the fulfillment of the figures
 
 
*
3. third, it's called full because of the fulfillment of the promises
 
 
>
3. third, two reasons are given why that time was pre-ordained for the coming of Christ
 
201
>
1. first, one is taken from his greatness
 
 
*
1. first, for since he that was to come was great, it was fitting that men be made ready for his coming by many indications and many preparations
 
 
*
2. second, God, who, at sundry times and in diverse manners, spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, last of all in these days has spoken to us by his Son (Heb 1:1)
 
 
>
2. second, the other is taken from the role of the one coming
 
 
>
1. first, for since a physician was to come, it was fitting that before his coming, men should be keenly aware of their infirmity
 
 
*
1. first, both as to their lack of knowledge during the law of nature
 
 
*
2. second, and as to their lack of virtue during the written law
 
 
>
2. second, therefore it was fitting that both precede the coming of Christ
 
 
*
1. first, namely, the law of nature
 
 
*
2. second, and the written law
 
 
V
*
2. second, he applies it as to his dignity as heir
 
202
Chapter 4
4b God sent his Son,
V
*
3. third, he applies it as to smallness
 
203
Chapter 4
4c made of a woman,
V
*
4. fourth, he applies it as to its aspect of subjection, at made under the law
 
208
Chapter 4
4d made under the law:
V
>
2. second, he discloses the purpose of the reality that corresponds to the simile, at that he might redeem those who were under the law
4:5
 
Chapter 4
5 That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons.
*
1. first, the fruit of freedom as against subjection
 
 
*
2. second, the fruit of being made great inasmuch as we are adopted as sons of God by receiving the Spirit of Christ and being conformed to him
 
 
V
>
2. second, he shows that they have been made partakers of this pre-eminence through faith, and above, the apostle revealed the gift bestowed on the Jews; here he shows that this gift pertains also to the gentiles, at and because you are sons of God
4:6
210
Chapter 4
6 And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
V
>
1. first, he mentions the gift
 
211
Chapter 4
6a And because you are sons,
*
1. first, he says therefore that the gift of adoption of sons pertains not only to those who were under the law but to the gentiles as well
 
 
*
2. second, hence he says: because you are sons of God, i.e., you are the sons of God
 
 
*
3. third, because not only the Jews but all others who believe in the Son of God are adopted as sons: he gave them power to be made sons of God, to them that believe in his name (John 1:12)
 
 
V
>
2. second, the means of obtaining it, at God has sent the Spirit
4:6b
212
Chapter 4
6b God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.
>
1. first, the manner in which that gift is obtained is by the sending of the Spirit of the Son of God into your hearts
 
 
>
1. first, Augustine says, however, that Christ, existing in the flesh, preached in a principal manner to the Jews
 
 
*
1. first, but to the gentiles as a matter of course: for I say that Christ Jesus was minister of the circumcision for the truth of God to confirm the promises made unto the fathers (Rom 15:8)
 
 
*
2. second, accordingly, whatever pertains to the condition of the Jews is fittingly adapted to Christ
 
 
>
2. second, and because they might have said that the Galatians had not been adopted as sons of God, since Christ did not assume flesh from them or preach to them
 
 
>
1. first, for that reason the Apostle, elucidating the manner of this adoption
 
 
*
1. first, says that although they were not related to Christ according to the flesh, i.e., according to race, or by reason of preaching
 
 
*
2. second, yet they were united to him through the Spirit and thereby adopted and made sons of God
 
 
>
2. second, hence the conversion of the gentiles is in a special way attributed to the Holy Spirit
 
 
*
1. first, consequently, Peter, when he was blamed by the Jews for going to preach to the gentiles
 
 
*
2. second, he excused himself through the Holy Spirit, saying that he could not resist the Holy Spirit by whose inspiration he had done this (Acts 11)
 
 
*
3. third, and so, because God the Father sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, i.e., the hearts of the Jews and gentiles, we are united to Christ and by that fact are adopted as sons of God
 
 
>
2. second, but he says, into your hearts, because there is a twofold generation
 
214
*
1. first, one is carnal and comes about through fleshly seed sent to the place of generation; this seed, small as it is, contains in effect the whole
 
 
>
2. second, the other is spiritual, which comes about by spiritual seed transmitted to the place of spiritual generation, i.e., man’s mind or heart, because they are born sons of God through a renewal of the mind
 
 
*
1. first, furthermore, the spiritual seed is the grace of the Holy Spirit: whoever is born of God does not sin: but the generation of God preserves him and the wicked one does not touch him (1 John 5:18)
 
 
>
2. second, this seed contains, in effect, the whole perfection of beatitude
 
 
*
1. first, hence it is called the pledge and deposit of beatitude (Eph 1:14)
 
 
*
2. second, I will put a new spirit within you (Ezek 36:26)
 
 
>
3. third, crying, i.e., making us cry, Abba, Father, not with a loudness of voice but with a great fervor of love
 
 
*
1. first, for we cry, Abba, Father, when our affections are kindled by the warmth of the Holy Spirit to desire God: you have not received the spirit of bondage again in fear; but you have received the Spirit of adoption of sons, whereby we cry: Abba, Father (Rom 8:15)
 
 
*
2. second, abba in Hebrew and patir in Greek both have the same meaning; and he makes mention of both to show that the grace of the Holy Spirit, as such, is related in a common way to both
 
 
V
>
3. third, he discloses the fruit of this gift, at therefore now he is not a servant
4:7
216
Chapter 4
7 Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an heir also through God.
V
>
1. first, as to removing all evil, from which we are freed through adoption by the Holy Spirit
4:7a
 
Chapter 4
7a Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son.
V
>
1. first, this is freedom from bondage
 
 
Chapter 4
7a Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son.
V
*
1. first, with respect to this he says: therefore, i.e., because the Spirit cries Father in us
 
 
Chapter 4
7a1 Therefore,
V
*
2. second, now, from the time of grace
 
 
Chapter 4
7a2 now
V
*
3. third, he, i.e., each one of us who believes in Christ
 
 
Chapter 4
7a3 he
V
>
4. fourth, is not a servant, i.e., serving in fear
 
 
Chapter 4
7a4 is not a servant,
V
*
1. first, I will not now call you servants but friends (John 15:15)
 
 
Chapter 4
7a4 is not a servant,
V
*
2. second, you have not received the spirit of bondage again in fear: but you have received the Spirit of adoption of sons (Rom 8:15)
 
 
Chapter 4
7a4 is not a servant,
V
*
5. fifth, but a son: for the Spirit himself gives testimony to our spirit that we are the sons of God (Rom 8:16)
 
 
Chapter 4
7a5 but a son.
>
2. second, for although we be in the condition of servants, because it is said in Luke: when you shall have done all these things that are commanded you, say: we are unprofitable servants (Luke 17:10)
 
 
*
1. first, we are not ill-disposed servants, i.e., serving in fear
 
 
*
2. second, for such a servant is deserving of torture and chains
 
 
>
3. third, but we are good and faithful servants, serving out of love
 
 
*
1. first, for that reason we obtain freedom through the Son
 
 
*
2. second, if, therefore, the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed (John 8:36)
 
 
V
>
2. second, he mentions the fruit as to its effect of attaining every good
4:7b
217
Chapter 4
7b And if a son, an heir also through God.
V
*
1. first, with regard to this he says: and, if a son, an heir also through God: and if sons, heirs also: heirs indeed of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17)
 
 
Chapter 4
7b1 And if a son, an heir also
V
>
2. second, now this inheritance is the fullness of all good, for it is nothing other than God himself
 
 
Chapter 4
7b1 And if a son, an heir also
*
1. first, according to a psalm: the Lord is the portion of my inheritance (Ps 16:5)
 
 
*
2. second, he said to Abraham: I am your reward, exceedingly great (Gen 15:1)
 
 
V
>
3. third, he says, through God
 
 
Chapter 4
7b2 through God.
>
1. first, because as the Jews obtained the inheritance through the promise and justice of God
 
 
*
1. first, so the gentiles too received it through God, i.e., through the mercy of God
 
 
*
2. second, but the gentiles are to glorify God for his mercy (Rom 15:9)
 
 
*
2. second, or, through God, i.e., through the working of God: you have wrought all our works for us, O Lord (Isa 26:12)
 
 
V
*
3. third, he censures them for disdaining this preeminence, at but then indeed, not knowing God
4:8
 
Chapter 4
8 But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature, are not gods.
9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire to serve again?
10 You observe days and months and times, and years.
11 I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among you.
12 Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You have not injured me at all.
13 And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh
14 You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
15 Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would have given them to me.
16 Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?
17 They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them.
18 But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you.
19 My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be formed in you.
20 And I would willingly be present with you now and change my voice: because I am ashamed for you.
V
>
2. second, with an example from scripture, at tell me, you who desire to be under the law
4:21
247
Chapter 4
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
V
>
1. first, he proposes a fact
 
 
Chapter 4
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
V
*
1. first, he elicits their attention
 
248
Chapter 4
21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read the law?
V
>
2. second, he sets forth his intention, saying: the reason I ask whether you have read the law is that it contains certain things which clearly indicate that the law must not be retained; and the apostle mentions specifically the two sons of Abraham; at for it is written
4:22
249
Chapter 4
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
V
>
1. first, he states one point in which they are alike
 
 
Chapter 4
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
>
1. first, they are alike in having the same father
 
 
V
*
1. first, for the Jews are the children of Abraham according to the flesh
 
 
Chapter 4
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
V
*
2. second, but the gentiles, by imitating him in faith
 
 
Chapter 4
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman and the other by a free woman.
*
2. second, or of God, who is the father of all
 
 
V
>
2. second, two points in which they differ
 
250
Chapter 4
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
V
*
1. first, in the condition of their mother
 
 
Chapter 4
23a But he who was of the bondwoman
V
>
2. second, they differ in the manner of procreation
 
 
Chapter 4
23b was born according to the flesh: but he of the free woman was by promise.
V
*
1. first, Ishmael
 
 
Chapter 4
23b1 was born according to the flesh:
V
*
2. second, Isaac
 
 
Chapter 4
23b2 but he of the free woman was by promise.
>
3. and two errors must be avoided
 
251
*
1. first, lest we understand born according to the flesh as though flesh refers here to an act of sin
 
 
>
2. second, lest we suppose, when it is said, by promise, that Isaac was not born according to the flesh, i.e., through a carnal union, but by the Holy Spirit
 
 
*
1. first, it must be said that Ishmael was born according to the flesh, i.e., according to the nature of the flesh. For it is natural among men that from a fertile young woman, such as Hagar was, and from a man advanced in years, a son be born
 
 
*
2. second, but that Isaac be born according to promise is beyond the nature of the flesh: for the nature of the flesh cannot achieve that a son be born of an old man and a barren old woman, as Sarah was
 
 
>
4. fourth, how we should consider these terms
 
 
*
1. first, in Ishmael are signified the Jewish people, who were born according to the flesh
 
 
*
2. second, in Isaac are signified the gentiles, who were born according to the promise, in which Abraham was promised that he would be the father of many nations
 
 
V
>
2. second, he expounds its mystery, at which things are said by an allegory
4:24
252
Chapter 4
24 Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
*
1. first, he tells what sort of mystery it is
 
253
Chapter 4
24a Which things are said by an allegory.
V
>
2. second, he explains it, at for these are the two testaments
 
255
Chapter 4
24b For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
>
1. first, as to the mothers
 
 
Chapter 4
24b For these are the two testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written:
Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not:
break forth and cry thou that travailest not:
for many are the children of the desolate,
more than of her that hath a husband.
V
>
1. first, he states the things specified, at these
 
256
Chapter 4
24b For these are the two testaments.
*
1. the bondwoman, which signifies the Old Testament
 
 
*
2. the freewoman, which signifies the New Testament
 
 
V
>
2. second, he explains it, at the one from Mount Sinai
 
257
Chapter 4
24c The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written:
Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not:
break forth and cry thou that travailest not:
for many are the children of the desolate,
more than of her that hath a husband.
V
>
1. first, as to the Old
 
 
Chapter 4
24c The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
V
>
1. first, he expounds the mystery
 
259
Chapter 4
24c The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
V
*
1. first, he mentions the place in which it was given, at the one from Mount Sinai, engendering unto bondage
 
 
Chapter 4
24c The one from Mount Sina,
V
>
2. second, he explains the end for which it was given; namely, not to make them free, but to make them children of a bondwoman; which is signified by Hagar, who engenders unto bondage, namely, the Old Testament; and this it does with respect to three things
 
260
Chapter 4
24d engendering unto bondage, which is Agar.
>
1. first, understanding (intellectum), because in man is a two-fold knowledge
 
 
*
1. one is free, when he knows the truth of things according to themselves
 
 
*
2. the other is servile, i.e., veiled under figures, as was the knowledge of the Old Testament
 
 
>
2. second, feeling (affectum)
 
 
*
1. the new law engenders the feeling of love, which pertains to freedom: for one who loves is moved by his own initiative
 
 
*
2. the old, on the other hand, engenders the feeling of fear in which is servitude: for one who fears is moved not by his own initiative but by that of another
 
 
>
3. third, fruit
 
 
*
1. first, the new law begets sons to whom is owed the inheritance
 
 
*
2. second, whereas to those whom the old law engenders are owed small presents as to servants
 
 
V
>
2. second, he accounts for the mystical explanation, at for Sinai
4:25
261
Chapter 4
25 For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.
*
1. first, a difficulty arises: for since Sinai is almost twenty days journey from Jerusalem, it seems false that Sinai has affinity to, i.e., borders on, Jerusalem
 
 
>
2. second, the mystical interpretation from the Gloss
 
 
*
1. first, Sinai is in Arabia, which stands for the abjection or affliction under which the Old Testament was given, because the men under it were oppressed by carnal observances after the manner of slaves and foreigners
 
 
*
2. second, this mountain neighbors on Jerusalem not by a spatial continuity but by a likeness to that which is now Jerusalem, i.e., to the Jewish people, because just as they love earthly things and for the sake of temporal things are under the bondage of sin, so that mountain engendered unto bondage.
 
 
>
3. third, but that does not seem to be the Apostle’s intention
 
262
>
1. first, for he wants to bring out that, from the very place of bondage, the Old Testament (which was given on Mount Sinai) engenders unto bondage because it was given on Sinai
 
 
*
1. first, not as a place where the children of Israel were to remain
 
 
*
2. second, but as a stage in their journey to the promised land
 
 
>
2. second, for Jerusalem, too, engenders sons unto bondage; hence it is with respect to this that Mount Sinai is continuous with her; and this is what he says
 
 
*
1. first, which has affinity to that (i.e., by being part of the continuous route followed by those going to Jerusalem)
 
 
>
2. second, which is now Jerusalem, and is in bondage with her children,
 
 
*
1. first, i.e., the bondage of legal observances (from which Christ redeemed us)
 
 
*
2. second, and of various sins
 
 
*
3. third, and, literally, from bondage under the Romans who were their masters.
 
 
V
>
2. second, as to the New
4:26
263
Chapter 4
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
27 For it is written:
Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not:
break forth and cry thou that travailest not:
for many are the children of the desolate,
more than of her that hath a husband.
V
>
1. first, he discloses the mystery
 
264
Chapter 4
26 But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.
>
1. first, the mystery can be understood in two ways as we understand this mother to be:
 
 
*
1. first, the mother by whom we are engendered, which is the Church Militant
 
 
*
2. second, or the mother whose sons we become, which is the Church Triumphant
 
 
>
2. second, in explaining it thus, our mother is described by four things
 
 
*
1. first, by her sublimity, at above
 
 
*
2. second, by name, at Jerusalem, which means a vision of peace, hence she is a peacemaker
 
 
*
3. third, by her freedom, at free
 
 
*
4. fourth, by her fecundity, at our mother
 
 
V
>
2. second, he refers to a prophecy, at for it is written; here is mentioned the prophecy thorugh which is proved:
 
265
Chapter 4
27 For it is written:
Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not:
break forth and cry thou that travailest not:
for many are the children of the desolate,
more than of her that hath a husband.
>
1. first, that the mother referred to is free, and there are differences between a woman who can and can not give birth
 
266
>
1. first, their different experiences
 
 
>
1. first, their different experiences
 
 
*
1. first, in a fertile woman there is first sorrow in giving birth, but this is followed by joy in beholding the child
 
 
*
2. second, a barren woman neither suffers the pangs of birth nor has joy in a child
 
 
>
2. second, there is a difference between bearing and travailing
 
 
>
1. first, the meaning of the words
 
 
*
1. first, the latter [travailing] refers to the effort to bear
 
 
*
2. second, whereas the former [bearing] refers to the releasing of the fetus now formed
 
 
>
2. second, their different experiences
 
 
>
1. first, the fertile woman experiences
 
 
*
1. first, pain in travail
 
 
*
2. second, but joy in bearing
 
 
>
2. second, the sterile woman on the other hand experiences
 
 
*
1. first, neither the pain of travail
 
 
*
2. second, nor the joy of bearing
 
 
*
2. second, these are the two things which the prophet announces to the barren woman, crying and breaking forth
 
 
*
2. second, that she is fruitful, at for many are the children
 
267
V
>
2. second, having disclosed the mystery as to the mothers, he now discloses it as to the sons, at now we, brethren
4:28
268
Chapter 4
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
>
1. first, he differentiates between the sons on three counts
 
 
Chapter 4
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
>
1. first, as to the manner of origin
 
269
Chapter 4
28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
*
1. first, one is by origin according to the flesh, as Ishmael, of the bondwoman
 
 
*
2. second, the other not according to the flesh, as Isaac, of the free woman—not because he was not born in the way of nature, but because, as has been said, it was beyond the natural power of the flesh for a son to be born of a barren old woman.
 
 
V
*
2. second, as to the feeling of love, at but as then he who was born
4:29
270
Chapter 4
29 But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
*
3. third, as to their right to the inheritance, at but what does the Scripture say
4:30
274
Chapter 4
30 But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman.
V
>
2. second, he sets down the main conclusion, at so then, brethren
4:31a
275
Chapter 4
31a So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but of the free:
*
1. first, for in this world the good are mingled with the wicked and the wicked with the good: as the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters (Song 2:2)
 
 
*
2. second, but in the eternal fatherland there will be only the good; in Judges it is said to Jephtah: you cannot inherit in the house of our father, because you are born of a harlot (Judg 11:2)
 
 
V
*
3. third, he concludes his proposition, saying, this freedom we obtain from Christ
4:31b
 
Chapter 4
31b by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.
V
>
2. second, he admonishes them with a view to their correction, and here he leads them back from error to a state of rectitude, at I wonder that you are so soon removed
 
276
Chapter 5
1 Stand fast and be not held again under the yoke of bondage.
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Chapter 6
1 Brethren, and if a man be overtaken in any fault, you, who are spiritual, instruct such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
2 Bear ye one another’s burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of Christ.
3 For if any man think himself to be some thing, whereas he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4 But let every one prove his own work: and so he shall have glory in himself only and not in another.
5 For every one shall bear his own burden.
6 And let him that is instructed in the word communicate to him that instructeth him, in all good things.
7 Be not deceived: God is not mocked.
8 For what things a man shall sow, those also shall he reap. For he that soweth in his flesh of the flesh also shall reap corruption. But he that soweth in the spirit of the spirit shall reap life everlasting.
9 And in doing good, let us not fail. For in due time we shall reap, not failing.
10 Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work good to all men, but especially to those who are of the household of the faith.
11 See what a letter I have written to you with my own hand.
12 For as many as desire to please in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer the persecution of the cross of Christ.
13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law: but they will have you to be circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.
15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but a new creature.
16 And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on them and mercy: and upon the Israel of God.
17 From henceforth let no man be troublesome to me: for I bear the marks of the Lord Jesus in my body.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.
V
>
1. first, with respect to divine matters
5:1
 
Chapter 5
1 Stand fast and be not held again under the yoke of bondage.
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, he admonishes them
 
 
Chapter 5
1 Stand fast and be not held again under the yoke of bondage.
*
1. first, he includes an inducement to good
5:1
 
*
2. second, he includes a caution against evil
 
 
V
>
2. second, he gives the reason underlying his admonition
5:2
279
Chapter 5
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, the second part [a caution against evil], namely, that they must not submit to the yoke of serving the law
 
 
Chapter 5
2 Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3 And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4 You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you are fallen from grace.
>
1. first, he shows what the yoke of bondage is to which they should not submit
 
 
*
1. first, he shows that this yoke is a source of great harm
 
280
*
2. second, that it is terribly burdensome, at and I testify again
5:3
 
*
2. second, he proves it, at you are made void of Christ
5:4
283
V
>
2. second, the first part [an inducement to good], and he shows that they must stand fast
5:5
284
Chapter 5
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, he gives an example of standing fast
 
 
Chapter 5
5 For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.
*
1. first, he proposes an example of standing fast
 
 
*
2. second, he assigns its cause, at for in Christ Jesus
 
 
V
*
2. second, he removes and obstacle to standing fast, at you did run well
 
 
Chapter 5
7 You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey the truth?
8 This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.
9 A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment, whosoever he be.
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.
12 I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.
V
>
3. third, he tells them the cause for standing fast, and establish its mode, at for you, brethren, have been called unto liberty
5:13
298
Chapter 5
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, he establishes the mode of standing
 
 
Chapter 5
13 For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve one another.
*
1. first, he sets down the condition of a state
 
299
*
2. second he describes its abuse
 
300
*
3. third, he asserts its mode
 
301
V
>
2. second, he gives an explanation, at for all the law
5:14
303
Chapter 5
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, about charity, indicating what the spiritual life consists in
 
 
Chapter 5
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15 But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not consumed one of another.
*
1. first, he admonishes them to follow charity because of the benefit we obtain in fulfilling charity
 
 
*
2. second, because of the injury incurred by neglecting charity, at but if you bite
 
 
V
>
2. second, about not making liberty an occasion to the flesh but rather that they should follow the Holy Spirit who is the cause of the spiritual state, and he mentions three benefits obtained from the Holy Spirit, at walk in the Spirit
5:16
307
Chapter 5
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, freedom from the bondage of the flesh
 
 
Chapter 5
16 I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not the things that you would.
*
1. first, he sets down the first benefit of the Spirit
 
308
>
2. second, he shows the need for this benefit, at for the flesh
 
310
*
1. first, he asserts that there is a struggle
 
 
*
2. second, he elucidates this by an obvious sign, at for these are contrary to one another
 
 
V
>
2. second, freedom from the bondage of the law, at but if you are led by the Spirit
5:18
316
Chapter 5
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
*
1. first, he mentions a benefit of the Spirit
 
 
Chapter 5
18 But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.
V
>
2. second, he manifests it by certain effects, at now the works of the flesh are manifest
5:19
319
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
1. first, he mentions the works of the flesh which are opposed to the Holy Spirit
 
 
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
V
>
1. first, he mentions the works of the flesh that are forbidden by the law
 
 
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21 Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
V
>
1. first, he enumerates the works of the flesh
 
320
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21a Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.
V
>
1. first, some doubts arise
5:19
 
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21a1 Envies, murders,
V
*
1. first, first, as to the Apostle’s mentioning things that do not pertain to the flesh, but which he says are works of the flesh, such as idolatry, sects, emulations, and the like
 
 
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21a1 Envies, murders,
V
*
2. second, the second doubt is that, since the Apostle says that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God, whereas no one is excluded from the kingdom of God except for mortal sin, it follows that all the sins enumerated are mortal sins; but the contrary seems to be the case, because in this list he enumerates many that are not mortal sins, such as contention, emulation, and the like
 
321
Chapter 5
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication, uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,
20 Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths, quarrels, dissensions, sects,
21a1 Envies, murders,
*
3. third, there is a doubt about the order followed in this list
 
322
V
>
2. second, having settled these doubts, we should next observe that the apostle lists certain vices
5:21a2
323
Chapter 5
21a2 drunkenness, revellings, and such like.
>
1. first, he mentions certain vices of the flesh that concern things not necessary to life
 
 
>
1. first, he mentions certain vices that a man commits against himself, which he mentions first because they spring from the flesh
 
 
>
1. first, he mentions two that pertain to the carnal act of lus
 
 
*
1. first, fornication
 
 
*
2. second, uncleanness
 
 
>
2. second, the other two are ordained to the aforesaid acts
 
 
*
1. first, one is performed outwardly, as touches, looks, kisses and the like, as to these he says immodesty
 
 
*
2. second, the other inwardly, namely, unclean thoughts, as to this he says luxury
 
 
>
2. second, then those that are against God
5:20a
 
*
1. first, that whereby divine worship is hindered by the enemies of God, as to this he says idolatry
 
 
*
2. second, that in which a pact is struck with demons, as to this he says witchcrafts
 
 
>
3. third, finally, those that are against the neighbor, the first of which is enmity and the last murder because from the former one comes to the latter
5:20b
 
*
1. first, enmities, from which arise verbal disputes; and so he says, contentions, which are attacks on the truth with the confidence of shouting
 
 
*
2. second, emulations, which arise from contention
 
 
*
3. third, wraths, which arises when one is hindered by someone else who is tending to a same thing, so that on this account anger arises within him
 
 
*
4. fourth, quarrels, which is when anger of spirit leads to blows
 
 
>
2. second, he mentions others that concern things necessary to life, he mentions two
 
326
*
1. first, one concerns drink; hence he says, drunkenness, i.e., continual: take heed lest perhaps your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness and the cares of this life (Luke 21:34)
5:21a2
 
*
2. second, the other concerns food, touching which he says, revellings: not in rioting and drunkenness (Rom 13:13)
 
 
V
*
2. second, he mentions the harm that follows from them, at of which I foretell to you
 
 
Chapter 5
21b Of the which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.
V
*
2. second, he mentions the works of the Spirit which are not forbidden by it, at but the fruit of the Spirit
5:22
 
Chapter 5
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity,
V
*
2. second, he shows how the works of the Spirit are not forbidden by the law, at against such there is no law
5:23
 
Chapter 5
23 Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
V
>
3. third, the conferring of life, or security from the damnation of death, at if we live in the Spirit
 
339
Chapter 5
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
*
1. first, he mentions the benefit of the Spirit of God
5:25
 
*
2. second, he rejects the vices of the spirit of the world, at let us not be made desirous
5:26
341
V
>
2. second, with respect to human affairs, instructing them how to behave toward men, at brethren, even if a man be overtaken in some fault
6:1
342
Chapter 6
1 Brethren, and if a man be overtaken in any fault, you, who are spiritual, instruct such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
2 Bear ye one another’s burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of Christ.
3 For if any man think himself to be some thing, whereas he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4 But let every one prove his own work: and so he shall have glory in himself only and not in another.
5 For every one shall bear his own burden.
6 And let him that is instructed in the word communicate to him that instructeth him, in all good things.
7 Be not deceived: God is not mocked.
8 For what things a man shall sow, those also shall he reap. For he that soweth in his flesh of the flesh also shall reap corruption. But he that soweth in the spirit of the spirit shall reap life everlasting.
9 And in doing good, let us not fail. For in due time we shall reap, not failing.
10 Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work good to all men, but especially to those who are of the household of the faith.
11 See what a letter I have written to you with my own hand.
12 For as many as desire to please in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer the persecution of the cross of Christ.
13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law: but they will have you to be circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.
15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but a new creature.
16 And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on them and mercy: and upon the Israel of God.
17 From henceforth let no man be troublesome to me: for I bear the marks of the Lord Jesus in my body.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.
>
1. first, how to act toward the upright
 
 
>
1. first, he teaches how superiors should act toward inferiors
 
343
*
1. first, he sets forth the admonition
6:1a
 
*
2. second, he assigns the reason for the admonition: considering yourself, lest you also be tempted
6:1b
 
>
2. second, how equals should act towards equals, at bear one another's burdens
 
346
>
1. first, he sets down the admonition, which is to support one another, and this is to be done in three ways
6:2a
347
*
1. first, by patiently enduring the bodily or spiritual defects of another (cf. Rom. 15:1)
 
 
*
2. second, by coming to one another's aid in their needs (cf. Rom. 12:13)
 
 
*
3. third, by making satisfaction through prayers and works for the punishment one has incurred (cf. Prov. 18:19)
 
 
>
2. second, he assigns a reason for it, which is the fulfillment of the law of Christ, which is charity, and there are three reasons why charity is specifically linked with the law of Christ, at and so you shall fulfill the law
6:2b
348
*
1. first, because by it the new law is distinguished from the old: for the former is a law of fear, but the latter a law of love
 
 
*
2. second, because Christ expressly promulgated his law in terms of charity (cf. John 13:35)
 
 
*
3. third, because Christ fulfilled it and left us an example how to fulfill it; for he bore our sins out of charity (cf. Isa. 53:4, 1 Pet. 2:24, Isa. 40:11)
 
 
>
3. third, he removes an obstacle to the admonition, which is pride, at for if any man think himself
 
349
>
1. first, he censures such pride
6:3
350
*
1. first, it sometimes happens that one does not carry another's burdens because he prefers himself to others (cf. Luke 18:11)
 
 
>
2. second, therefore he says:
 
 
*
1. first, for if any man think himself to be something, i.e., through pride judge in his own mind that he is greater in comparison to a sinner
 
 
*
2. second, whereas he is nothing of himself, because whatever we are is from the grace of God, according to the saying of the apostle, but by the grace of God I am what I am (1 Cor. 15:10)
 
 
*
3. third, anyone, I say, who acts thus, deceives himself, i.e., cuts himself off from the truth (cf. Isa. 40:17, Luke 17:10)
 
 
>
2. second, he points out how to avoid it, which is to consider one's own defects, at but let everyone prove his own work
6:4
351
*
1. first, for it is because one considers the defects of others and not his own that he seems to himself to be something in comparison to others in whom he observes defects; and not considering his own, he has a feeling of pride
 
 
>
2. second, hence he says:
 
 
*
1. but let everyone prove, i.e., diligently examine
 
 
*
2. his own work, both inward and outward (cf. 1 Cor. 11:28)
 
 
>
3. and so in himself…
 
 
>
first interpretation
 
 
*
3. and so in himself, i.e., in his own conscience
 
 
*
4. he shall have glory, i.e., shall glory and rejoice (cf. 2 Cor. 1:12)
 
 
*
5. and not in another, i.e. not in being praised by someone else
 
 
>
second interpretation
 
 
*
3. and so in himself, i.e., in things that are his own
 
 
*
4. he shall have glory, i.e., he will glory by considering himself
 
 
*
5. and not in another, i.e. not by considering others (cf. 2 Cor. 12:9)
 
 
>
third interpretation
 
 
*
3. and so in himself, i.e., in God who dwells in him
 
 
*
4. he shall have glory, i.e., the glory will be his
 
 
*
5. and not in another, i.e. save in God, (cf. 2 Cor. 10:17)
 
 
*
3. third, he gives a reason for avoiding it, which is the reward or punishment that will be rendered to each one according to his merits or demerits, at for everyone shall bear
6:5
352
>
3. third, how inferiors should act toward superiors, with service and reverence, at and let him who is instructed
 
353
>
1. first, he advises that they serve readily
 
 
>
1. first, he lays down the admonition to serve, and it should be noted that a disciple can communicate in two ways with his teacher
 
 
*
1. first, so as to receive good things from the teacher
6:6
354
*
2. second, that he communicate his own goods to the teacher
 
 
>
2. second, he forestalls an excuse, and this can be taken in two ways according to the explanations given above, at be not deceived
6:7
355
>
1. first, he forestalls it
 
 
*
1. first, according to the first
 
356
*
2. second, according to the second
 
 
>
2. second, he gives a reason for this, at for what things a man shall sow
6:8
357
*
1. first, in a general way
 
 
>
2. second, in a specific way, and this reason has two parts, according to the two sowings, at for he who sows
 
359
*
1. first, namely in the flesh
 
 
*
2. second, and in the Spirit
 
360
*
2. second, that they serve perseveringly, at and in doing good, let us not fail
6:9
361
*
3. third, that they serve all, at therefore, while we have time
 
 
*
2. second, how to act toward those who are wicked, at see what a letter I have written
6:11
365