Galatians 4:18
Verse
Context
Sermons
John Gill
Theodore Epp
A.W. TozerA.W. Tozer
John Wesley
James Smith
J.C. RyleSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
It is good to be zealously affected - It is well to have a determined mind and an ardent heart in reference to things which are laudable and good. Not only when I am present - You were thus attached to me when I was among you, but now ye have lost both your reverence and affection for me. Your false teachers pretended great concern for you, that you might put all your confidence in them; they have gained their end; they have estranged you from me, and got you to renounce the Gospel, and have brought you again into your former bondage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
good to be zealously affected--rather, to correspond to "zealously court" in Gal 4:18, "to be zealously courted." I do not find fault with them for zealously courting you, nor with you for being zealously courted: provided it be "in a good cause" (translate so), "it is a good thing" (Co1 9:20-23). My reason for saying the "not well" (Gal 4:17; the Greek is the same as that for "good," and "in a good cause," in Gal 4:28), is that their zealous courting of you is not in a good cause. The older interpreters, however, support English Version (compare Gal 1:14). always--Translate and arrange the words thus, "At all times, and not only when I am present with you." I do not desire that I exclusively should have the privilege of zealously courting you. Others may do so in my absence with my full approval, if only it be in a good cause, and if Christ be faithfully preached (Phi 1:15-18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
My little children,.... A soft and tender way of speaking, used by Christ to his disciples, and frequently by that affectionate and beloved disciple, John. It is expressive of the apostle's strong love and affection for them, and points out their tenderness in the faith, and that small degree of spiritual light and knowledge they had, as well as signifies that he had been, as he hoped, and in a judgment of charity believed, an instrument of their conversion, and was their spiritual parent: hence it follows, of whom I travail in birth again; he compares himself to a woman with child, as the church in bringing forth souls to Christ sometimes is; and all his pains and labours in the ministry of the word to the sorrows of a woman during the time of childbearing, and at the birth. When he first came among them, he laboured exceedingly; he preached the Gospel in season, and out of season; he followed his indefatigable endeavours with importunate prayers; and his ministry among them was attended with much weakness of body, and with many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, comparable to the birth throes of a woman in travail: however, as he hoped he was the means of their being born again, of the turning of them from Heathenism to Christianity, and from serving idols to serve the living God, and believe in his Son Jesus Christ; but the false apostles coming among them had so strangely wrought upon them, and they were so much gone back and degenerated, that they seemed to be like so many abortions, or as an unformed foetus; wherefore he laboured again with all his might and main, by writing to them, using arguments with them, sometimes giving them good words, at other times rough ones, and fervently praying for them, if possible, to recover them from Judaism, to which they were inclined, to the pure Gospel of Christ. Until Christ be formed in you; which is the same as to be created in Christ, to be made new creatures, or new men in him; or, in other words, to have the principle of grace wrought in the soul, which goes by the name of Christ formed in the heart; because it is from him, he is the author of it, and it bears a resemblance to him, and is that by which he lives, dwells, and reigns in the souls of his people. Now though, as he hoped, this new man, new creature, or Christ, was formed in them before, when he first preached the Gospel to them; yet it was not a perfect man; particularly their knowledge of Christ, of his Gospel, and Gospel liberty, was far from being so, in which they went backwards instead of forwards; and therefore he was greatly concerned, laboured exceedingly, and vehemently endeavoured, which he calls travailing in birth again, to bring them to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. It is also the same as to be conformed to the image of Christ, which in regeneration is stamped upon the saints, and is gradually increased, and will be perfected in heaven; and that this might more manifestly appear, over which a veil was drawn, by their departure in any degree from the truths of the Gospel, was what he earnestly sought after: once more, it is the same as to have the form of Christ; that is, of the Gospel of Christ upon them, or to be cast into the form of doctrine, and mould of the Gospel, and to receive a Gospel impression and spirit from it; which is to have a spirit of liberty, in opposition to legal bondage; to live by faith on Christ, and not on the works of the law; to derive comfort alone from him, and not from any services and duties whatever; to have repentance, and the whole course of obedience, influenced by the grace of God, and love of Christ; and to be zealous of good works, and yet have no dependence on them for justification and salvation. This is what the apostle so earnestly desired, when, instead of it, these Galatians seemed to have the form of Moses, and of the law.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:18 Paul’s statement might mean that it was fine for people to seek the Galatians’ loyalty, but those other teachers were not in fact eager to do good things for them. Alternatively, this verse could be translated It is good to be always sought eagerly for good things, and not just when I’m with you. In this case it would mean that it was good for the Galatians to continue eagerly embracing Paul and his message and not change their attitude toward him in his absence.
Galatians 4:18
Paul’s Concern for the Galatians
17Those people are zealous for you, but not in a good way. Instead, they want to isolate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them.18Nevertheless, it is good to be zealous if it serves a noble purpose—at any time, and not only when I am with you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Of Zeal.
By John Gill0Zeal for GodTrue vs. False Zeal1KI 18:21ISA 9:7MAT 23:15ROM 10:22CO 7:112CO 11:2GAL 4:18PHP 3:9TIT 2:14REV 3:15John Gill emphasizes the significance of zeal as a fervent love for God and His glory, distinguishing between genuine zeal and various forms of misguided zeal. He explains that true zeal is characterized by a passionate commitment to God's righteousness, worship, and the promotion of the gospel, while false zeal can stem from ignorance, hypocrisy, or misguided intentions. Gill outlines the different types of zeal, including the zeal of God, mistaken zeal, superstitious zeal, and hypocritical zeal, urging believers to pursue a true and informed zeal that aligns with God's will. He encourages Christians to be fervent in their faith and actions, reflecting the zeal of Christ in their lives.
Zeal Without Knowledge
By Theodore Epp0ZealRelationship With ChristMAT 7:1JHN 15:5ROM 10:21CO 13:1GAL 4:18EPH 2:8PHP 3:6COL 3:232TI 2:24TIT 2:14Theodore Epp discusses the concept of 'Zeal Without Knowledge' as exemplified by Paul, who, despite his fervent persecution of the church, was misguided in his understanding of God's will. Epp emphasizes that true Christian zeal should stem from a right relationship with Christ, rather than a mere opposition to others or their beliefs. He warns against measuring one's faith by what they oppose, highlighting that genuine zeal should lead to good works and a loving attitude towards others. The sermon calls for believers to reflect on their motivations and ensure their zeal aligns with the teachings of Jesus.
Misinformed Zeal
By A.W. Tozer0ZealDiscernment in FaithMAT 7:21JHN 4:24ROM 10:21CO 13:1GAL 4:18PHP 3:62TI 3:5TIT 2:14JAS 2:19REV 3:15A.W. Tozer addresses the concept of zeal in the Christian life, emphasizing that while true Christians should exhibit fervent zeal for God, it is possible to be zealous without being genuinely Christian. He critiques the notion that zeal alone is a marker of godliness, pointing out that many zealous individuals or groups, such as Jehovah's Witnesses and other religions, demonstrate fervor but are not aligned with biblical truth. Tozer warns that zeal must be accompanied by sound doctrine and a true relationship with Christ, as mere enthusiasm does not equate to righteousness. He highlights that even those with misguided zeal can be more fervent than true believers, underscoring the need for discernment in evaluating spiritual fervor.
Quiet Zeal
By A.W. Tozer0Quiet ZealTrue RighteousnessISA 42:2MAT 23:15JHN 2:17ROM 12:11GAL 4:18PHP 2:14COL 3:23TIT 2:14JAS 1:201PE 3:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the distinction between noisy zeal and the quiet zeal that reflects true godliness. He critiques those who are overly zealous in their pursuits, often creating chaos and distraction, while highlighting that genuine zeal, like that of Christ, is marked by humility and compassion. Tozer illustrates this with an anecdote about a passionate advocate for animal rights whose efforts, though well-intentioned, ultimately led to futility. He reminds us that true zeal should not be loud and disruptive but rather a quiet, steadfast commitment to righteousness. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to be zealous in a way that aligns with God's character.
On Zeal
By John Wesley0Love in ActionChristian ZealMAT 5:16ROM 12:91CO 13:1GAL 4:18EPH 4:2COL 3:141TH 5:15JAS 3:171PE 4:81JN 4:8John Wesley emphasizes the critical importance of true Christian zeal, distinguishing it from the destructive zeal that has historically caused harm in the name of religion. He argues that genuine zeal is rooted in love and humility, and it should be directed towards good works, particularly those that benefit others. Wesley warns against the counterfeit forms of zeal that lead to anger, pride, and division, urging believers to focus on love as the highest expression of their faith. He encourages a balanced approach to zeal, prioritizing works of mercy and holy tempers over mere religious observance. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a fervent love for God and neighbor as the essence of true Christian zeal.
The Zealous Christian!
By James Smith0MRK 16:15ROM 12:111CO 12:261CO 15:58GAL 4:18COL 3:23TIT 2:101PE 3:15REV 2:4REV 3:19James Smith preaches on the importance of being zealous for the Lord, emphasizing Jesus' zeal for us and how we should reciprocate that zeal in our lives. He urges believers to be zealous for the truth of the gospel, to defend, adorn, and spread it with love and firmness. Additionally, Smith highlights the need to be zealous for the Lord's people, encouraging, assisting, and uniting them in love. Lastly, he stresses the importance of being zealous for the Lord's cause, supporting and increasing it with our resources and efforts, in contrast to the zeal of Satan, lost sinners, and false teachers.
Christian Zeal
By J.C. Ryle0Spiritual GrowthChristian ZealPSA 69:9JHN 4:34ACT 26:241CO 9:272CO 9:2GAL 4:18PHP 3:13TIT 2:141PE 2:21REV 3:19J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of Christian zeal, arguing that it is a powerful force for good when directed towards God's glory and the salvation of souls. He clarifies that true zeal is not blind enthusiasm but is rooted in knowledge, love, and humility, and is essential for both individual believers and the Church as a whole. Ryle warns against the dangers of lukewarmness and encourages Christians to cultivate a fervent desire to please God, drawing inspiration from biblical examples of zealous figures like Paul and Christ Himself. He concludes by urging believers to remain steadfast in their zeal, as it is crucial for personal growth, church vitality, and the betterment of the world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
It is good to be zealously affected - It is well to have a determined mind and an ardent heart in reference to things which are laudable and good. Not only when I am present - You were thus attached to me when I was among you, but now ye have lost both your reverence and affection for me. Your false teachers pretended great concern for you, that you might put all your confidence in them; they have gained their end; they have estranged you from me, and got you to renounce the Gospel, and have brought you again into your former bondage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
good to be zealously affected--rather, to correspond to "zealously court" in Gal 4:18, "to be zealously courted." I do not find fault with them for zealously courting you, nor with you for being zealously courted: provided it be "in a good cause" (translate so), "it is a good thing" (Co1 9:20-23). My reason for saying the "not well" (Gal 4:17; the Greek is the same as that for "good," and "in a good cause," in Gal 4:28), is that their zealous courting of you is not in a good cause. The older interpreters, however, support English Version (compare Gal 1:14). always--Translate and arrange the words thus, "At all times, and not only when I am present with you." I do not desire that I exclusively should have the privilege of zealously courting you. Others may do so in my absence with my full approval, if only it be in a good cause, and if Christ be faithfully preached (Phi 1:15-18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
My little children,.... A soft and tender way of speaking, used by Christ to his disciples, and frequently by that affectionate and beloved disciple, John. It is expressive of the apostle's strong love and affection for them, and points out their tenderness in the faith, and that small degree of spiritual light and knowledge they had, as well as signifies that he had been, as he hoped, and in a judgment of charity believed, an instrument of their conversion, and was their spiritual parent: hence it follows, of whom I travail in birth again; he compares himself to a woman with child, as the church in bringing forth souls to Christ sometimes is; and all his pains and labours in the ministry of the word to the sorrows of a woman during the time of childbearing, and at the birth. When he first came among them, he laboured exceedingly; he preached the Gospel in season, and out of season; he followed his indefatigable endeavours with importunate prayers; and his ministry among them was attended with much weakness of body, and with many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, comparable to the birth throes of a woman in travail: however, as he hoped he was the means of their being born again, of the turning of them from Heathenism to Christianity, and from serving idols to serve the living God, and believe in his Son Jesus Christ; but the false apostles coming among them had so strangely wrought upon them, and they were so much gone back and degenerated, that they seemed to be like so many abortions, or as an unformed foetus; wherefore he laboured again with all his might and main, by writing to them, using arguments with them, sometimes giving them good words, at other times rough ones, and fervently praying for them, if possible, to recover them from Judaism, to which they were inclined, to the pure Gospel of Christ. Until Christ be formed in you; which is the same as to be created in Christ, to be made new creatures, or new men in him; or, in other words, to have the principle of grace wrought in the soul, which goes by the name of Christ formed in the heart; because it is from him, he is the author of it, and it bears a resemblance to him, and is that by which he lives, dwells, and reigns in the souls of his people. Now though, as he hoped, this new man, new creature, or Christ, was formed in them before, when he first preached the Gospel to them; yet it was not a perfect man; particularly their knowledge of Christ, of his Gospel, and Gospel liberty, was far from being so, in which they went backwards instead of forwards; and therefore he was greatly concerned, laboured exceedingly, and vehemently endeavoured, which he calls travailing in birth again, to bring them to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. It is also the same as to be conformed to the image of Christ, which in regeneration is stamped upon the saints, and is gradually increased, and will be perfected in heaven; and that this might more manifestly appear, over which a veil was drawn, by their departure in any degree from the truths of the Gospel, was what he earnestly sought after: once more, it is the same as to have the form of Christ; that is, of the Gospel of Christ upon them, or to be cast into the form of doctrine, and mould of the Gospel, and to receive a Gospel impression and spirit from it; which is to have a spirit of liberty, in opposition to legal bondage; to live by faith on Christ, and not on the works of the law; to derive comfort alone from him, and not from any services and duties whatever; to have repentance, and the whole course of obedience, influenced by the grace of God, and love of Christ; and to be zealous of good works, and yet have no dependence on them for justification and salvation. This is what the apostle so earnestly desired, when, instead of it, these Galatians seemed to have the form of Moses, and of the law.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:18 Paul’s statement might mean that it was fine for people to seek the Galatians’ loyalty, but those other teachers were not in fact eager to do good things for them. Alternatively, this verse could be translated It is good to be always sought eagerly for good things, and not just when I’m with you. In this case it would mean that it was good for the Galatians to continue eagerly embracing Paul and his message and not change their attitude toward him in his absence.