Boasting in the Cross

Paul applies life in the Spirit to community. If someone is overtaken in a trespass, those who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness, keeping watch on themselves lest they too be tempted. Believers bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ, which is the law of love. At the same time, each must test his own work and carry his own load, avoiding the self-deception of thinking oneself something.

Those who are taught the word should share all good things with their teachers. Paul states a principle as firm as farming. God is not mocked; whatever one sows, that he will also reap. Sowing to the flesh yields corruption, while sowing to the Spirit yields eternal life. Therefore believers must not grow weary of doing good, for in due season they will reap if they do not give up. As they have opportunity, they should do good to everyone, especially to the household of faith.

Paul writes in large letters with his own hand (6:11). He exposes the motive of the circumcision party. They want to make a good showing in the flesh and avoid persecution for the cross, and they wish to boast in the Galatians' compliance. Paul will boast only in the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to him and he to the world. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only a new creation. He pronounces peace and mercy on all who walk by this rule and on the Israel of God. He carries in his body the marks of Jesus, and he ends with grace.