Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye did run well - Ye once had the faith that worked by love - ye were genuine, active, useful Christians. Who doth hinder - Who prevented you from continuing to obey the truth? Ye could only be turned aside by your own consent. St. Paul here, as in Co1 9:24 (note), compares Christianity to a race. See the notes on the above text.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "Ye were running well" in the Gospel race (Co1 9:24-26; Phi 3:13-14). who, &c.--none whom you ought to have listened to [BENGEL]: alluding to the Judaizers (compare Gal 3:1). hinder--The Greek means, literally, "hinder by breaking up a road." not obey the truth--not submit yourselves to the true Gospel way of justification.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Ye did run well,.... In the Christian race; when they first set out in a profession of religion, they embraced and held fast, and were zealously attached to the truths of the Gospel; they were in the lively exercise of grace on its proper object, and very diligent in the discharge of duty; they made great proficiency in the knowledge of divine things, and ran with cheerfulness and without weariness in the ways of Christ, and in the paths of truth and holiness. The metaphor is taken from runners in a race; see Co1 9:24 so far this is said to their commendation, but this should have been persisted in: who did hinder you; not the apostle, or any of his brethren; no, they encouraged them to go on, and gave them all the assistance they could, to help them forward; but it was the false apostles that hindered them, who did all they could to remove them to another Gospel, and turn them aside out of the right way: that ye should not obey the truth? of the Gospel, particularly the truth of justification by the righteousness of Christ; which they did not so cheerfully embrace, and show such a respect unto, as they had formerly done; see Gal 3:1, and which he says not by way of inquiry, but of complaint and concern; and with some indignation against the persons who had been the means of hindering their Christian progress, and with a view to reclaim the Galatians if possible.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7 The life of faith is like running a race (cp. 1 Cor 9:24-27; Phil 3:13-14; 2 Tim 4:7-8). The law became a hindrance to the Galatians in this race rather than a help (cp. Luke 11:52).
Freedom in Christ
6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love.7You were running so well. Who has obstructed you from obeying the truth?8Such persuasion does not come from the One who calls you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Practical Applications to Music
By Denny Kenaston2.2K59:10MusicPSA 46:1PSA 95:6GAL 5:7GAL 6:7EPH 5:19COL 3:161TI 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discerning the spirit, message, fruit, and lives behind the music we listen to. They highlight the need for music to be rich in the truths of God's word, rather than repetitive or emotionally-driven. The speaker also mentions the importance of sound musical principles and how they have been distorted in modern music. They urge listeners to be cautious of music that promotes adultery, alcoholism, and other sinful behaviors, and instead focus on music that aligns with biblical principles. The sermon references verses from Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 to support the message.
Preserving God's Standards
By Zac Poonen1.2K57:40PSA 139:23MAT 11:28MRK 9:24JHN 14:15GAL 5:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of staying true to God's standards and not deviating from the path set by Jesus. It warns against compromising with worldly influences and highlights the need for self-judgment, humility, and seeking the Holy Spirit's help to stay on track. The speaker urges individuals to focus on following Jesus, judging themselves, and being willing to take the blame, rather than blaming others. The message stresses the significance of preserving the testimony of Christ in the current generation and encourages a commitment to upholding high standards despite the prevailing backsliding in Christendom.
The Deeper Spiritual Life #3 "The Static Christian"
By A.W. Tozer1Spiritual GrowthSeparation from the WorldMAT 6:24ROM 12:21CO 3:12CO 5:17GAL 5:7PHP 3:14COL 3:2HEB 6:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15A.W. Tozer addresses the issue of the 'static Christian,' emphasizing the need for believers to move beyond a stagnant faith and pursue a deeper spiritual life. He highlights that true progress requires a complete forsaking of worldly influences and a wholehearted turning to Jesus Christ. Tozer argues that many Christians may appear religious but fail to truly separate themselves from the world, both in spirit and practice. He encourages listeners to embrace both the negative aspect of forsaking the world and the positive aspect of turning to Christ to experience true joy and fulfillment in their faith. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a transformative relationship with Jesus that leads to a vibrant and dynamic Christian life.
Holiness: It's Hindrances
By G. Campbell Morgan0Spiritual HindrancesHolinessROM 7:24GAL 5:7G. Campbell Morgan addresses the hindrances to holiness, emphasizing that many Christians, despite initially running well in their faith, have allowed various influences to impede their spiritual progress. He highlights the dangers of returning to bondage and the importance of personal examination to identify what hinders one's pursuit of holiness. Morgan asserts that holiness is not only possible but essential for a vibrant Christian life, and he challenges believers to confront the obstacles—be they people, habits, or worldly temptations—that detract from their spiritual growth. He concludes with a call to recognize that failing to pursue holiness ultimately defames Christ and diminishes the witness of the church in the world.
I Marvel That Ye Are So Soon Removed.
By Martin Luther01CO 15:58GAL 1:6GAL 5:7HEB 2:1JAS 1:22Martin Luther addresses the Galatians with gentleness, expressing his surprise at how quickly they have strayed from the true Gospel. He condemns those who led them astray while gently reproving the Galatians for allowing themselves to be swayed. Luther implies that if they had a firmer grasp on the Word, they would not have been so easily influenced. He draws parallels between the Galatians and the Germans, noting a lack of constancy in both groups when it comes to faith and zeal for the Gospel.
Human Anodynes
By Horatius Bonar0The Consequences of SinObedience to God1SA 15:221SA 16:14ISA 29:13MAT 11:28ROM 7:241CO 5:5GAL 5:71TI 1:202TI 3:5JAS 1:22Horatius Bonar reflects on the tragic decline of Saul, who began his reign with promise but fell into disobedience, leading to his rejection by God. He emphasizes that Saul's sin was not merely misrule but a failure to obey God's command, highlighting the importance of obedience over personal reasoning. The consequences of Saul's disobedience were severe: the Spirit of the Lord departed from him, and he was tormented by an evil spirit, illustrating the dual nature of divine judgment. Bonar warns against relying on human solutions, such as music or rituals, which may provide temporary relief but fail to address the deeper spiritual needs of the soul. Ultimately, he calls for a return to God’s true remedy for healing and peace, rather than superficial comforts that leave the soul unfulfilled.
Postponing Obedience
By A.W. Tozer0ObedienceSalvationMAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 5:19GAL 5:7EPH 2:8HEB 5:9JAS 1:221PE 1:21JN 2:3A.W. Tozer addresses the dangerous heresy within evangelical circles that allows individuals to accept Christ as Savior while postponing their obedience to Him. He emphasizes that true salvation is inseparable from obedience, as highlighted by Peter's description of Christians as 'obedient children.' Tozer argues that the entire Bible supports the notion that genuine obedience is a fundamental requirement of the Christian life, and that the idea of salvation without obedience is fundamentally flawed. He reminds us that disobedience led to humanity's downfall, reinforcing the necessity of immediate and consistent obedience to God.
Helping or Hindering New Believers
By A.W. Tozer0Supporting New BelieversThe Role of Church CommunityMAT 18:3ROM 14:131CO 3:1GAL 5:7EPH 4:29COL 3:162TI 2:15HEB 5:12JAS 1:51PE 2:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the joy of new converts in their faith journey, noting that their happiness can be threatened by certain Bible teachers and church members who may inadvertently hinder their growth. He acknowledges that while some teachers and members can inspire and support new believers, others may complicate their faith with unnecessary complexities or disillusionment. Tozer warns that the simplicity of faith can be lost when new converts encounter negative influences too early in their spiritual walk, which can lead to struggles in their advancement in the Christian life.
Where Are They?
By L.A. Anderson0PSA 12:11CO 1:9GAL 5:72TI 2:13HEB 13:8L.A. Anderson preaches on the urgent cry for godly and faithful men in our day, reflecting on the disappearance of such individuals from previous generations. He emphasizes the importance of godliness and faithfulness, traits that are attainable by all, regardless of gifting. Despite the scarcity of these qualities in today's society, Anderson encourages believers to seek God's help in raising up a new generation of godly and faithful individuals who will walk closely with Jesus.
Weights and Besetting Sins
By Charles Finney0Christian RaceOvercoming SinMAT 6:33ROM 12:11CO 9:24GAL 5:7PHP 3:132TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:71JN 2:15Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of shedding weights and besetting sins to successfully run the Christian race, drawing parallels to the rigorous training of athletes in ancient games. He explains that the race symbolizes the Christian life, where the ultimate prize is eternal glory with God. Finney outlines the conditions for winning this race, including laying aside unnecessary burdens, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a focus on God's calling. He warns against the dangers of selfishness and the importance of perseverance, urging believers to fully commit to their spiritual journey. The sermon serves as a call to action for Christians to evaluate their lives and remove anything that hinders their relationship with God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye did run well - Ye once had the faith that worked by love - ye were genuine, active, useful Christians. Who doth hinder - Who prevented you from continuing to obey the truth? Ye could only be turned aside by your own consent. St. Paul here, as in Co1 9:24 (note), compares Christianity to a race. See the notes on the above text.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "Ye were running well" in the Gospel race (Co1 9:24-26; Phi 3:13-14). who, &c.--none whom you ought to have listened to [BENGEL]: alluding to the Judaizers (compare Gal 3:1). hinder--The Greek means, literally, "hinder by breaking up a road." not obey the truth--not submit yourselves to the true Gospel way of justification.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Ye did run well,.... In the Christian race; when they first set out in a profession of religion, they embraced and held fast, and were zealously attached to the truths of the Gospel; they were in the lively exercise of grace on its proper object, and very diligent in the discharge of duty; they made great proficiency in the knowledge of divine things, and ran with cheerfulness and without weariness in the ways of Christ, and in the paths of truth and holiness. The metaphor is taken from runners in a race; see Co1 9:24 so far this is said to their commendation, but this should have been persisted in: who did hinder you; not the apostle, or any of his brethren; no, they encouraged them to go on, and gave them all the assistance they could, to help them forward; but it was the false apostles that hindered them, who did all they could to remove them to another Gospel, and turn them aside out of the right way: that ye should not obey the truth? of the Gospel, particularly the truth of justification by the righteousness of Christ; which they did not so cheerfully embrace, and show such a respect unto, as they had formerly done; see Gal 3:1, and which he says not by way of inquiry, but of complaint and concern; and with some indignation against the persons who had been the means of hindering their Christian progress, and with a view to reclaim the Galatians if possible.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7 The life of faith is like running a race (cp. 1 Cor 9:24-27; Phil 3:13-14; 2 Tim 4:7-8). The law became a hindrance to the Galatians in this race rather than a help (cp. Luke 11:52).