Galatians 4:19
Verse
Context
Paul’s Concern for the Galatians
18Nevertheless, it is good to be zealous if it serves a noble purpose—at any time, and not only when I am with you.19My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,20how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you.
Sermons
Leonard Ravenhill
Alan Redpath
Francis Chan
Zac Poonen
T. Austin-SparksLeonard Ravenhill
Alan CairnsSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My little children - Τεκνια μου· My beloved children. As their conversion to God had been the fruit of much labor, prayers, and tears, so he felt them as his children, and peculiarly dear to him, because he had been the means of bringing them to the knowledge of the truth; therefore he represents himself as suffering the same anxiety and distress which he endured at first when he preached the Gospel to them, when their conversion to Christianity was a matter of great doubt and uncertainty. The metaphor which he uses needs no explanation. Until Christ be formed in you - Till you once more receive the Spirit and unction of Christ in your hearts, from which you are fallen, by your rejection of the spirit of the Gospel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
My little children-- (Ti1 1:18; Ti2 2:1; Jo1 2:1). My relation to you is not merely that of one zealously courting you (Gal 4:17-18), but that of a father to his children (Co1 4:15). I travail in birth--that is, like a mother in pain till the birth of her child. again--a second time. The former time was when I was "present with you" (Gal 4:18; compare Note, see on Gal 4:13). Christ be formed in you--that you may live nothing but Christ, and think nothing but Christ (Gal 2:20), and glory in nothing but Him, and His death, resurrection, and righteousness (Phi 3:8-10; Col 1:27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I desire to be present with you now,.... His meaning is, either that be wished he was personally present among them; that he had but an opportunity of seeing them face to face, and telling them all his mind, and in such a manner as he could not in a single epistle; or that they would consider him, when they read this epistle, as if he was really among them; and as if they saw the concern of his mind, the agonies of his soul, the looks of his countenance, and heard the different tone of his voice: and to change my voice; when present with them, either by a different way of preaching; that whereas before he preached the Gospel of the grace of God unto them, and his voice was charming to them like that of an angel, and even of Jesus Christ himself; but they having turned their backs upon it, and slighted it, he would now thunder out the law to them they seemed to be so fond of; even that voice of words, which when, the Israelites on Mount Sinai heard, entreated they might hear no more; as these Galatians also must when they heard the true voice of it, which is no other than a declaration of wrath, curse, and damnation; or by using a different way of speaking to them, as necessity might require, either softly or roughly, beseeching or chiding them, which might more move and affect them than an epistle could: for I stand in doubt of you, The Vulgate Latin reads it, "I am confounded in you"; and the Syriac, "I am stupefied"; and to the same sense the Arabic. He was ashamed of them for their apostasy and degeneracy; he was amazed and astonished at their conduct; or, as the word may be rendered, be was "perplexed" on their account; he did not know what to think of them, and their state; sometimes he hoped well of them, at other times he was ready to despair; nor did he well know what course to take with them, whether to use them roughly or smoothly, and what arguments might be most proper and pertinent, in order to reclaim them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
That the apostle might the better dispose these Christians to bear with him in the reproofs which he was obliged to give them, he here expresses his great affection to them, and the very tender concern he had for their welfare: he was not like them - one thing when among them and another when absent from them. Their disaffection to him had not removed his affection from them; but he still bore the same respect to them which he had formerly done, nor was he like their false teachers, who pretended a great deal of affection to them, when at the same time they were only consulting their own interest; but he had a sincere concern for their truest advantage; he sought not theirs, but them. They were too ready to account him their enemy, but he assures them that he was their friend; nay, not only so, but that he had the bowels of a parent towards them. He calls them his children, as he justly might, since he had been the instrument of their conversion to the Christian faith; yea, he styles them his little children, which, as it denotes a greater degree of tenderness and affection to them, so it may possibly have a respect to their present behaviour, whereby they showed themselves too much like little children, who are easily wrought upon by the arts and insinuations of others. He expresses his concern for them, and earnest desire of their welfare and soul-prosperity, by the pangs of a travailing woman: He travailed in birth for them: and the great thing which he was in so much pain about, and which he was so earnestly desirous of, was not so much that they might affect him as that Christ might be formed in them, that they might become Christians indeed, and be more confirmed and established in the faith of the gospel. From this we may note, 1. The very tender affection which faithful ministers bear towards those among whom they are employed; it is like that of the most affectionate parents to their little children. 2. That the chief thing they are longing and even travailing in birth for, on their account, is that Christ may be formed in them; not so much that they may gain their affections, much less that they may make a prey of them, but that they may be renewed in the spirit of their minds, wrought into the image of Christ, and more fully settled and confirmed in the Christian faith and life: and how unreasonably must those people act who suffer themselves to be prevailed upon to desert or dislike such ministers! 3. That Christ is not fully formed in men till they are brought off from trusting in their own righteousness, and made to rely only upon him and his righteousness. As further evidence of the affection and concern which the apostle had for these Christians, he adds (Gal 4:20) that he desired to be then present with them - that he would be glad of an opportunity of being among them, and conversing with them, and that thereupon he might find occasion to change his voice towards them; for at present he stood in doubt of them. He knew not well what to think of them. He was not so fully acquainted with their state as to know how to accommodate himself to them. He was full of fears and jealousies concerning them, which was the reason of his writing to them in such a manner as he had done; but he would be glad to find that matters were better with them than he feared, and that he might have occasion to commend them, instead of thus reproving and chiding them. Note, Though ministers too often find it necessary to reprove those they have to do with, yet this is no grateful work to them; they had much rather there were no occasion for it, and are always glad when they can see reason to change their voice towards them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:19 The Galatians were Paul’s spiritual children (cp. 1 Cor 4:14-15; Phlm 1:10). The process of bringing them to Christ had been like going through labor pains, a hard labor with a definite and joyful conclusion. Now Paul felt that it wasn’t finished after all. • until Christ is fully developed in your lives: Paul uses wordplay, switching the metaphor so that the Galatians would give birth to Christ’s image if they continued in the faith that Paul delivered to them. However, if they took up the law, they would produce a stillbirth. Paul must continue his hard work as a midwife in order to prevent this from happening.
Galatians 4:19
Paul’s Concern for the Galatians
18Nevertheless, it is good to be zealous if it serves a noble purpose—at any time, and not only when I am with you.19My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,20how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Galatians - Prayer Meeting (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill7.6K41:26Prayer MeetingPSA 51:6ISA 53:51CO 4:15GAL 4:16GAL 4:19HEB 1:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the preaching of the Apostle Paul and his ability to confound intellectuals with the message of the Resurrection. The speaker emphasizes the power of personal experience in strengthening one's faith and resisting arguments. They express a desire for the courage, faith, and love demonstrated by Paul. The speaker also mentions their own experiences in preaching and the importance of speaking the truth, even if it makes one unpopular.
Self Dies Hard
By Alan Redpath6.1K53:19Death To SelfGEN 17:15GEN 17:17ROM 6:11ROM 6:13GAL 4:19GAL 5:1In this sermon, Dr. Ellen Redpath discusses the story of Abraham and Sarah and their journey of faith. She highlights how Abraham's decision to take Hagar as his wife represented a rejection of the principle of faith. This decision led to rebellion against God's purpose and a refusal of His plan. Dr. Redpath emphasizes the importance of reckoning ourselves dead to sin and alive to God through Jesus Christ, as stated in Romans 6:11. She encourages believers to learn from Abraham's mistakes and fully trust in God's plan for their lives.
Christian Love That Defies Description
By Francis Chan6.0K18:36GAL 4:19
This sermon shares a powerful testimony of a baptism where a girl, Sabrina, owned her faith as her own, not just inherited from her parents. It highlights the miraculous story of her survival in the womb and the significance of living out one's faith authentically. The message emphasizes the joy and peace found in walking with Jesus, urging others to experience the same transformation and genuine relationship with God.
Making Whole Hearted Disciples
By Zac Poonen3.8K1:01:14DiscipleshipLUK 14:25ROM 3:18GAL 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for radical repentance and a reverence for God. He challenges the audience to examine their own lives and confess if they have enjoyed powerful messages but then engaged in sinful behavior, such as watching explicit scenes in movies. The preacher highlights the importance of turning away from sin and having a genuine desire to follow Jesus. He also discusses the role of spiritual leaders in not only evangelizing but also nurturing and discipling believers, comparing it to a mother giving birth and caring for her children.
Joy Out of Travail
By T. Austin-Sparks2.9K37:53TravailGEN 3:16MAT 6:33JHN 16:21ROM 8:22GAL 4:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a deep appreciation for the things of God. He highlights how easily humans can take God's blessings for granted and become complacent in their faith. The speaker also emphasizes the value of fellowship and community within the church, stating that believers should cherish the opportunity to gather with other believers and experience the richness of the body of Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to have a genuine love and appreciation for God and all that He has given, recognizing that unbelief and cheapness in relation to spiritual values will lead to despair, while faith in God will bring about something new and better.
Travailing - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K09:302CO 5:14GAL 2:20GAL 4:19GAL 6:14PHP 3:7
This sermon delves into the profound courage, faith, and love displayed by the apostle Paul as seen in his letter to the Galatians. It explores how Paul's unwavering commitment to the message of the cross and his identification with Christ's crucifixion shaped his perspective on the world and his sacrificial love. The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of fully surrendering to Christ and the radical nature of living out the gospel message.
Maintaining the Cause of the Reformation
By Alan Cairns2.0K1:18:09ReformationGAL 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of liberty in Christ for believers. He highlights the themes of the Gospel, including the sovereignty of God's will, the merits of Jesus Christ, and the free justification of sinners. The preacher encourages believers to stand firm in the liberty that Christ has given them and not be bound by fear or human ideas. He also extends an invitation to those who do not know Christ to come and experience the freedom and forgiveness that only He can offer.
Until Christ if Formed in You
By J. Glyn Owen2.0K45:41Christ LikenessISA 53:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:292CO 3:18GAL 4:19EPH 4:13COL 1:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God and the presence of Jesus in various biblical stories. He explains that the power of God enabled Moses to lead the Israelites through the desert and provided for their needs. He also mentions the story of the three friends of Daniel who were protected by a fourth person in the fiery furnace. The preacher highlights the importance of having the spirit of God within oneself, which brings joy and peace. He concludes by urging believers to surrender to the lordship of Christ and allow him to rule over every aspect of their lives.
(Saved Through the Fire) 02 - the Path of True Salvation
By Milton Green1.8K1:28:00GAL 4:19GAL 5:15GAL 5:19GAL 5:221TI 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repeatedly hearing and understanding the message of God. He explains that hearing the message multiple times helps to break down walls and allows people to truly grasp its meaning. The preacher also highlights the significance of love and giving in the Christian faith, stating that when we have love in our hearts, we naturally want to give to others. He references the book of Acts and encourages the congregation to love the Lord with all their hearts and to love their neighbors as themselves. The preacher also discusses the concept of maturity in faith, pointing out that while some Corinthians were growing spiritually, many were still focused on worldly desires. He urges them to turn away from their old ways and be renewed in their minds, putting on the righteousness and holiness of God.
(Pure Testimony) Making Whole-Hearted Disciples
By Zac Poonen1.8K1:00:39PurityLUK 14:25ROM 3:18GAL 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of radical repentance and turning away from sinful behaviors. He warns against enjoying powerful messages and then indulging in immoral content, comparing it to drinking milk with a little bit of poison. The preacher calls for a younger generation to take up the torch and build a church that truly glorifies God, rather than just going through the motions of attending church. He also highlights the need for genuine transformation and character development, rather than simply participating in religious activities. The sermon references Bible verses such as Luke 14 and Galatians 4 to support these teachings.
Galatians: The Gospel of Grace
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:05:23GospelROM 8:38GAL 1:16GAL 2:20GAL 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and experiencing the grace of God. He explains that even after being saved, people can become greedy and rely on their own strength instead of God's grace. The preacher uses the analogy of a Roman punishment for murderers, where the corpse of the victim is tied to the murderer until it decomposes, to illustrate the frustration of trying to live a pleasing life to God without relying on His grace. He encourages believers to turn their hearts to God and allow Him to reveal His Son in them, which is the essence of the Gospel and the beginning of grace.
(Christ Formed) 01 - Christ Formed in You
By Ed Miller1.4K1:02:12ISA 32:6MAT 6:33GAL 4:19In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the importance of an introductory lesson in understanding the message of God. He then highlights the significance of the second man, Jesus Christ, who came to undo the mistakes of the first man, Adam. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is not just a cute baby in a manger, but a new representative for humanity, starting over and winning the race for the whole race. The sermon also touches on the concept of representation in sports and the speaker's struggle with reading critical material about the Lord.
Abraham, My Friend: 02 in the Beginning god...
By Ron Bailey1.4K12:06AbrahamGEN 1:12CH 33:13PRO 8:22JER 18:4JON 3:1MAL 1:2JHN 17:23GAL 4:19This sermon is the second installment in a series on the life of Abraham, focusing on the theme of beginnings. The speaker emphasizes that every Christian biography should begin with the recognition that God is the ultimate beginning. He encourages listeners not to be discouraged by their past experiences, as God can take them from impossible situations and lead them forward. The sermon highlights the biblical concept of God's mindfulness of humanity, emphasizing that God's love and reach extends to all, even those who have strayed. The speaker references various biblical passages, including Psalm 8, Proverbs, Jonah, Jeremiah, and Galatians, to illustrate the theme of new beginnings and God's unchanging love.
The Gospel of Christ's Glory
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:43ISA 55:62CO 3:182CO 4:32CO 4:5GAL 4:19
This sermon emphasizes the importance of not hiding behind masks of pretense but seeking to be transformed into the likeness of Christ by the Holy Spirit. It challenges believers to focus on the gospel of the glory of Christ, to be open and transparent in their lives, and to serve others as slaves for Jesus' sake, not seeking personal honor or recognition.
Basics of the Gospel Grace
By Stephen Kaung1.2K1:15:01ACT 13:2ACT 13:9ACT 13:15ACT 13:47GAL 2:20GAL 4:19GAL 6:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of grace in the life of a believer. He explains that grace is freely given by the Lord Jesus and does not require any payment or credit. The preacher uses the example of the apostle Paul, who was an enemy of Christ but received grace that transformed him completely. The preacher also highlights that grace goes beyond forgiveness and a right relationship with God, as it brings about a new birth and transformation. The sermon concludes with the preacher praying for the anointing of the Holy Spirit and for the listeners to have ears to hear and eyes to see what God has to say.
How Righteousness Works Out
By Robert B. Thompson6291:11:03ISA 66:7ROM 6:17GAL 4:19COL 1:27HEB 8:7REV 10:7REV 12:1REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher criticizes the belief that salvation is solely based on faith in a sovereign and unconditional Christ. He argues that this belief is not scriptural and does not align with reality. The preacher emphasizes the importance of righteousness and obedience to God's teachings in the process of salvation. He warns against relying solely on God's forgiveness without actively striving to live a righteous life. The sermon also touches on the concept of virtual reality and its potential negative impact on society.
Forming God's Rest in You
By Robert B. Thompson55458:44GEN 2:2MAT 6:33JHN 7:17GAL 4:19In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences of people mistaking him for a commissioner and a Jew. He then references Galatians 4:19 and discusses the concept of the rest of God. He explains that God has already finished all things from the beginning of the world and that Satan has tried to divide the church and the Jews because both are necessary for the kingdom of God. The speaker also mentions the new Jerusalem and the gates mentioned in the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of aligning one's will with God's will and surrendering to Him completely.
The Lord's Recovery Movement
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual TravailGod's Burden for His PeopleNEH 1:4EST 4:16ISA 53:11DAN 9:3MAT 9:37ROM 8:222CO 5:20GAL 4:19EPH 6:121TH 5:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the need for a genuine recovery movement among God's people, highlighting that many are trapped in a religious system that lacks divine influence. He calls for a deep, personal burden for the Lord's testimony, urging believers to engage in spiritual travail for the unsaved and the church. Sparks points out that true ministry arises from this heart concern, which must be accompanied by a recognition of spiritual opposition and a commitment to God's interests. He encourages believers to move beyond superficial engagement and to seek a profound connection with God's purpose in their lives. Ultimately, he challenges the church to abandon complacency and embrace the weight of God's burden for His people.
Our Ministry
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthFulness in ChristJHN 15:5ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 4:19EPH 4:13PHP 3:15COL 1:281TH 5:24HEB 6:12PE 3:18T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the ministry entrusted to him and his team, which is not about creating a new movement or exclusive fellowship but about guiding believers towards the fullness of Christ. He acknowledges the spiritual dissatisfaction that led to a deeper quest for understanding God's purpose and the importance of personal experiences in this journey. Sparks highlights that the ministry is rooted in a desire for all believers to grow in their relationship with Christ, recognizing the challenges and misunderstandings they may face along the way. He stresses that true growth comes from a progressive revelation of Christ, urging individuals to seek their own understanding of God's requirements. Ultimately, the goal is to present every believer complete in Christ, fostering a collective pursuit of spiritual maturity.
The Graces Which Are in Christians
By Thomas Brooks0Imitation of ChristHolinessJHN 1:16GAL 4:191JN 2:61JN 4:17Thomas Brooks emphasizes that to be a holy person is to know, love, and imitate Christ, as reflected in 1 John 4:17. He explains that the graces found in Christians are a reflection of the graces in Christ, highlighting that while they may differ in degree, they are fundamentally the same. Brooks encourages believers to cultivate these graces, as they are the marks of a holy heart, and to strive to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, as stated in 1 John 2:6. The sermon calls Christians to recognize their identity in Christ and to embody His virtues in their daily lives.
The Incarnation Part 4 - "Mary and Elizabeth"
By Charles Alexander0JER 1:5LUK 1:41LUK 1:45GAL 4:19Charles Alexander delves into the profound encounter between Mary and Elizabeth, highlighting the sanctity and prophetic nature of their conversation as they discussed the miraculous events surrounding the births of John the Baptist and Jesus. Mary's prompt visit to Elizabeth not only protected her reputation but also fulfilled divine purposes, ensuring she was shielded during the crucial months leading to the birth of Jesus. The sermon emphasizes the meticulous historical accuracy in Luke's account, showcasing God's providential hand guiding the events surrounding the births of John the Baptist and Jesus, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of prophecy and the ushering in of the new covenant.
The Incentive to Maturity
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine PurposeSpiritual MaturityROM 8:19ROM 8:291CO 3:12CO 3:18GAL 3:26GAL 4:6GAL 4:19EPH 1:5EPH 4:13HEB 2:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the urgency of spiritual maturity in his sermon 'The Incentive to Maturity', highlighting that the New Testament is primarily focused on urging believers towards full growth in Christ. He explains that maturity is essential not just for personal development but for fulfilling God's divine purpose, which includes governance over the world to come. Sparks points out that the letters of Paul address various aspects of spiritual growth, stressing that immaturity hinders believers from realizing their calling and inheritance as children of God. He underscores the importance of understanding our identity in Christ and the necessity of pressing on towards maturity to fulfill God's eternal purpose. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep commitment to spiritual growth as a response to God's grace and purpose.
The Centrality and Supremacy of Christ to the Individual Believer
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Supremacy of ChristSpiritual MaturityGAL 2:20GAL 4:19EPH 3:172TH 1:10HEB 1:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the centrality and supremacy of Christ in the life of the believer, explaining that Christ is not only present within but is the very essence of the believer's life. He discusses how believers must recognize Christ as their life source, moving away from legalism and embracing grace through faith. Sparks highlights the importance of having a clearly defined understanding of Christ within, which leads to spiritual maturity and victory over sin. He concludes by affirming that the ultimate goal is for Christ to be glorified in the believer, reflecting His glory to the world.
Jacob and the Law of Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 28:16GEN 29:15GEN 31:13GEN 35:1MAT 20:28GAL 4:19EPH 5:25COL 1:24HEB 10:25T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the life of Jacob, highlighting the three key aspects: the birthright, Bethel or the House of God, and service, all interconnected as phases of one thing. Jacob's active nature and perception of Divine things led him to understand the value of the birthright and the significance of the House of God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of subjection as the first law of service, showing that all service to God must be consciously related to His Church, the Body of Christ. True service, like Jacob's pursuit of Rachel, can never be satisfied with anything less than that which is wholly of the Spirit, emphasizing the need for spiritual fruit born out of God's intervention.
Fruit Unto God
By G.W. North0FruitfulnessSpiritual ParenthoodGEN 1:28MAT 28:19JHN 15:5ROM 9:3ROM 12:11CO 4:15GAL 4:191TH 2:19HEB 2:131PE 2:2G.W. North emphasizes the divine mandate of fruitfulness and multiplication in both the physical and spiritual realms, asserting that this principle is essential for the Church. He draws parallels between the apostle Paul's deep longing for spiritual offspring and the sacrificial love of Christ, highlighting that true ministry involves a passionate desire to bear God's children. North illustrates how early Church leaders like Paul, John, and Peter viewed their relationships with believers not merely as converts but as spiritual children, born out of love and commitment to Christ. He stresses that being a servant is commendable, but the ultimate calling is to be the Bride of Christ, which entails a fruitful union that produces spiritual offspring. The sermon concludes with a call for believers to embrace their identity as the Bride, yielding to God’s desire for fruitfulness in their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My little children - Τεκνια μου· My beloved children. As their conversion to God had been the fruit of much labor, prayers, and tears, so he felt them as his children, and peculiarly dear to him, because he had been the means of bringing them to the knowledge of the truth; therefore he represents himself as suffering the same anxiety and distress which he endured at first when he preached the Gospel to them, when their conversion to Christianity was a matter of great doubt and uncertainty. The metaphor which he uses needs no explanation. Until Christ be formed in you - Till you once more receive the Spirit and unction of Christ in your hearts, from which you are fallen, by your rejection of the spirit of the Gospel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
My little children-- (Ti1 1:18; Ti2 2:1; Jo1 2:1). My relation to you is not merely that of one zealously courting you (Gal 4:17-18), but that of a father to his children (Co1 4:15). I travail in birth--that is, like a mother in pain till the birth of her child. again--a second time. The former time was when I was "present with you" (Gal 4:18; compare Note, see on Gal 4:13). Christ be formed in you--that you may live nothing but Christ, and think nothing but Christ (Gal 2:20), and glory in nothing but Him, and His death, resurrection, and righteousness (Phi 3:8-10; Col 1:27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I desire to be present with you now,.... His meaning is, either that be wished he was personally present among them; that he had but an opportunity of seeing them face to face, and telling them all his mind, and in such a manner as he could not in a single epistle; or that they would consider him, when they read this epistle, as if he was really among them; and as if they saw the concern of his mind, the agonies of his soul, the looks of his countenance, and heard the different tone of his voice: and to change my voice; when present with them, either by a different way of preaching; that whereas before he preached the Gospel of the grace of God unto them, and his voice was charming to them like that of an angel, and even of Jesus Christ himself; but they having turned their backs upon it, and slighted it, he would now thunder out the law to them they seemed to be so fond of; even that voice of words, which when, the Israelites on Mount Sinai heard, entreated they might hear no more; as these Galatians also must when they heard the true voice of it, which is no other than a declaration of wrath, curse, and damnation; or by using a different way of speaking to them, as necessity might require, either softly or roughly, beseeching or chiding them, which might more move and affect them than an epistle could: for I stand in doubt of you, The Vulgate Latin reads it, "I am confounded in you"; and the Syriac, "I am stupefied"; and to the same sense the Arabic. He was ashamed of them for their apostasy and degeneracy; he was amazed and astonished at their conduct; or, as the word may be rendered, be was "perplexed" on their account; he did not know what to think of them, and their state; sometimes he hoped well of them, at other times he was ready to despair; nor did he well know what course to take with them, whether to use them roughly or smoothly, and what arguments might be most proper and pertinent, in order to reclaim them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
That the apostle might the better dispose these Christians to bear with him in the reproofs which he was obliged to give them, he here expresses his great affection to them, and the very tender concern he had for their welfare: he was not like them - one thing when among them and another when absent from them. Their disaffection to him had not removed his affection from them; but he still bore the same respect to them which he had formerly done, nor was he like their false teachers, who pretended a great deal of affection to them, when at the same time they were only consulting their own interest; but he had a sincere concern for their truest advantage; he sought not theirs, but them. They were too ready to account him their enemy, but he assures them that he was their friend; nay, not only so, but that he had the bowels of a parent towards them. He calls them his children, as he justly might, since he had been the instrument of their conversion to the Christian faith; yea, he styles them his little children, which, as it denotes a greater degree of tenderness and affection to them, so it may possibly have a respect to their present behaviour, whereby they showed themselves too much like little children, who are easily wrought upon by the arts and insinuations of others. He expresses his concern for them, and earnest desire of their welfare and soul-prosperity, by the pangs of a travailing woman: He travailed in birth for them: and the great thing which he was in so much pain about, and which he was so earnestly desirous of, was not so much that they might affect him as that Christ might be formed in them, that they might become Christians indeed, and be more confirmed and established in the faith of the gospel. From this we may note, 1. The very tender affection which faithful ministers bear towards those among whom they are employed; it is like that of the most affectionate parents to their little children. 2. That the chief thing they are longing and even travailing in birth for, on their account, is that Christ may be formed in them; not so much that they may gain their affections, much less that they may make a prey of them, but that they may be renewed in the spirit of their minds, wrought into the image of Christ, and more fully settled and confirmed in the Christian faith and life: and how unreasonably must those people act who suffer themselves to be prevailed upon to desert or dislike such ministers! 3. That Christ is not fully formed in men till they are brought off from trusting in their own righteousness, and made to rely only upon him and his righteousness. As further evidence of the affection and concern which the apostle had for these Christians, he adds (Gal 4:20) that he desired to be then present with them - that he would be glad of an opportunity of being among them, and conversing with them, and that thereupon he might find occasion to change his voice towards them; for at present he stood in doubt of them. He knew not well what to think of them. He was not so fully acquainted with their state as to know how to accommodate himself to them. He was full of fears and jealousies concerning them, which was the reason of his writing to them in such a manner as he had done; but he would be glad to find that matters were better with them than he feared, and that he might have occasion to commend them, instead of thus reproving and chiding them. Note, Though ministers too often find it necessary to reprove those they have to do with, yet this is no grateful work to them; they had much rather there were no occasion for it, and are always glad when they can see reason to change their voice towards them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:19 The Galatians were Paul’s spiritual children (cp. 1 Cor 4:14-15; Phlm 1:10). The process of bringing them to Christ had been like going through labor pains, a hard labor with a definite and joyful conclusion. Now Paul felt that it wasn’t finished after all. • until Christ is fully developed in your lives: Paul uses wordplay, switching the metaphor so that the Galatians would give birth to Christ’s image if they continued in the faith that Paul delivered to them. However, if they took up the law, they would produce a stillbirth. Paul must continue his hard work as a midwife in order to prevent this from happening.