Galations 6

     6:1.  This approach, that we are all sinners subject to entrapment and must come to one another’s aid, is in marked contrast to the boastful spirit of legalism (cf. Luke 18:11).

      6:2-10.  Vv.2 and 5 are a contrast, not a contradiction.  V.2 is how we are to live with and for each other now while we have opportunity, i.e., according to the law of Christ (see 5:14 and margin texts).  V.5 speaks of the assumption of full responsibility for our own choices which we must bear before God at the judgment (Ro.14:12; 1 Cor.3:8).  Vv.6-10 expand on these themes; 6, 9-10 on v.2, and 7-9 on v.5.

     6:11.  See notes at 1 Cor.16:21.

     6:12-15.  They would be praised, rather than persecuted as Paul was, if they could say they made converts to Judaism, even if they didn’t keep the Law themselves (13; cf.2:14).  How often has the church’s evangelism likewise boasted in an easy profession from worldlings who have never been to Golgotha with our Lord, nor become a new creation in him (13-14)?

     Too often we seek only to make a good showing in the flesh (12), thus a cheap compromised grace ends up in the same place as legalism, boasting in the flesh.  This becomes a contest in which all spy on and compete with one another (5:26).

     6:16.  Walk by this rule; i.e., the rule of the Spirit (cf. 5:16, 24-25).

     The Israel of God; only one deluded by the errors of Dispensationalism can fail to see that this is the church.  The context of Galatians demands it (3:7-9, 29, etc.).  The true Israel of God (the heirs of promise) are not according to the flesh, but by faith in God’s grace and promise (cf. Ezek.47:22; Acts 11:18; 15:9; Rom.9:6-8; Eph.2:12-14; 3:6, 11; Php.3:3; Col.3:11).

     6:17-18.  I bear…the brand-marks of Jesus; Paul literally did, and rejoiced in it.  He was set free to be the slave of the King of Glory, who ransomed him on the cross (2:20; 2 Cor.11:23).