Galatians 5:9
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump - A proverbial expression, see Co1 5:6, very aptly applied to those who receive the smallest tincture of false doctrine, relative to the things essential to salvation, which soon influences the whole conduct, so that the man becomes totally perverted. They might have argued, "It is a small thing, and should not be made a subject of serious controversy, whether we be circumcised or not." Granted, that in itself it is a small matter; but, as every man who is circumcised is a debtor to do the whole law, Gal 5:3, then your circumcision leads necessarily to your total perversion; as the little portion of leaven, mixed with the batch, soon leavens the whole lump.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
A little leaven--the false teaching of the Judaizers. A small portion of legalism, if it be mixed with the Gospel, corrupts its purity. To add legal ordinances and works in the least degree to justification by faith, is to undermine "the whole." So "leaven" is used of false doctrine (Mat 16:12 : compare Mat 13:33). In Co1 5:6 it means the corrupting influence of one bad person; so BENGEL understands it here to refer to the person (Gal 5:7-8, Gal 5:10) who misled them. Ecc 9:18, "One sinner destroyeth much good" (Co1 15:33). I prefer to refer it to false doctrine, answering to "persuasion" (Gal 5:8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have confidence in you through the Lord,.... Though the apostle had said many things which carried in them the appearance of roughness and severity, yet he still entertained hopes of them that they were not so far gone, but that they might be brought back again; and he here expresses his confidence of it. This confidence in them is not of faith, for no trust is to be put in men; no, not in the best; but of charity, or love, which hopes all things, and believes all things; and which proceeded upon a thorough persuasion he had, that there was some good thing in them; and therefore was confident, that he that had begun the good work would perform it, and not suffer them to be carried away finally and totally with the error of the wicked: and this confidence he had "through the Lord"; either through the Spirit of the Lord, whose office it is to lead into all truth, as it is in Jesus; and who had suggested this to the apostle, and possessed him of this confidence; so that it was not a conjecture and fancy of his, but an intimation from the Spirit of the Lord: or through the Lord Jesus Christ, or "in the Lord", Christ, as the phrase may be rendered; that is, on account of their being in Christ, which the apostle hoped and believed; where they were safe and secure from a final and total seduction; he was confident, that whatever they might seem to be now, things would take a different turn in time: that you will be none otherwise minded; than he was, and they formerly were, when the Gospel was first preached to them, and embraced by them; and particularly in the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ which was the doctrine then called in question, and in debate: but he that troubleth you; he seems to have respect to some particular person, who was the principal of the false teachers, and most famous for his learning, knowledge, gifts, and abilities; and who had done, and was likely to do, the most mischief among them; and was a troubler of God's Israel, and of the pure waters of the sanctuary; he unsettled their minds, and caused them to halt between two, Moses and Christ, law and Gospel, and the doctrines of justification by works, and by the righteousness of Christ; the one being what gave true solid peace and comfort, the other introduced confusion, distress, and fears: the apostle threatens him, and declares that he shall bear his judgment; or condemnation, or damnation, his punishment in this, or the other world; for the judgment, or condemnation, of such that bring in damnable harasses, and pernicious errors, lingereth not, will not be long delayed; and their damnation slumbereth not, but in a little time will seize upon them; when as they have rejected Christ as a sin bearing and atoning Saviour, and his righteousness as the justifying one, they will, agreeably to their own doctrine, be left to bear their punishment themselves, which will be intolerable, and to all eternity; nor shall any escape it, whosoever he be; though ever so knowing and learned, and let his parts and abilities be what they will; or he be ever so famous among men, and cried up as a most excellent preacher.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 This verse was apparently a well-known adage (literally A little yeast makes the whole loaf rise; cp. Matt 13:33; 16:6, 11-12; 1 Cor 5:6-7). A little reliance on the law for acceptance by God soon results in forgetting that Christ saves by his work alone.
Galatians 5:9
Freedom in Christ
8Such persuasion does not come from the One who calls you.9A little leaven works through the whole batch of dough.10I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is troubling you will bear the judgment, whoever he may be.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Celebrate the Feast
By Jim Cymbala1.6K38:32FeastsMAT 13:33MAT 26:28JHN 1:29ROM 6:231CO 5:7GAL 5:9EPH 2:8In this sermon, Pastor Symbola emphasizes the importance of living a life that is true to one's identity as a Christian. He highlights the destructive nature of sin and how it can spread and consume a person's life. Pastor Symbola urges the congregation to take sin seriously, especially in light of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. He emphasizes the need to get rid of all leaven, symbolizing sin, in order to experience true joy, peace, and rest in Christ.
Missions Fest Sunday
By Jackie Pullinger1.3K40:54MissionsMAT 6:33MAT 16:241CO 9:24GAL 5:9PHP 3:14HEB 12:1JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of Caleb from the Bible and encourages the audience to run the race of faith in order to reach the prize. He emphasizes the importance of expressing faith through love and taking action to help those in need. The speaker challenges the audience to not become desensitized to the suffering of others and to actively engage in acts of compassion and service. He reminds them that everyone has different needs and reasons for their circumstances, and it is their responsibility to see and respond to those needs.
Follow Me
By Shane Idleman74955:03PSA 51:17HOS 6:6MAT 9:13JHN 4:23GAL 5:9JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of loving the sinner but hating the sin. It challenges the listeners to have a balance in showing compassion without compromise, to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, and to understand the true meaning of mercy over sacrifice. The message calls for genuine worship as a way to encounter God and seek transformation in the heart.
The Dangers of Self Deception Part 5 - Evil Association
By Phil Beach Jr.191:16:26Evil AssociationsSelf-DeceptionDeceptionPSA 1:1PRO 13:20MAT 7:131CO 5:61CO 15:332CO 6:14GAL 5:9EPH 5:6JAS 4:41JN 2:15Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the dangers of self-deception, particularly through evil associations, urging believers to recognize how their company and lifestyle can corrupt their moral character. He highlights the importance of being vigilant against influences that lead to spiritual decline, reminding the congregation that even a small amount of evil can have devastating effects. Beach calls for a return to God's Word and a commitment to living according to its truths, rather than succumbing to societal pressures. He encourages the church to mourn over sin and to seek a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing that true followers of Christ must prioritize His teachings above all else.
Letter: 29e 56 Gillett, Lausanne, 1843
By John Nelson Darby0Spiritual Gifts and EdificationFaithfulness in TrialsJHN 15:2GAL 5:92TI 2:3TIT 3:10John Nelson Darby writes to Gillett, emphasizing the necessity of faithfulness to Christ amidst trials and the importance of leaning on the Lord during difficult times. He distinguishes between those who are in error due to lack of understanding and those who propagate heresies out of a willful heart, urging a careful approach to teaching and the exercise of spiritual gifts. Darby reflects on the blessings experienced in France and Switzerland, despite his own illness, and expresses a longing to return to England while remaining committed to serving the Lord. He acknowledges his weaknesses and the need for prayer, while encouraging the brethren to remain united in charity and edification.
One Puddle, if We Wallow in It
By Thomas Brooks0RepentanceSinPSA 66:18PRO 28:13MAT 5:29ROM 6:231CO 5:6GAL 5:9EPH 4:30HEB 12:1JAS 1:151JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the devastating impact of allowing even one sin to persist in our lives, illustrating how a single sin can lead to the loss of dignity and glory, much like how one fly can spoil a box of precious ointment. He warns that just as one disease can threaten a person's health, one unrepented sin can lead to eternal misery. Brooks highlights the danger of hypocrisy in seeking forgiveness for sins we are unwilling to forsake, urging listeners to recognize the seriousness of indulging in any sin. He cautions that Satan is satisfied if we yield to God in many areas, as long as we cling to at least one sin, which can ultimately lead to our downfall. The sermon serves as a stark reminder to examine our lives for any sins we may be wallowing in, as they can have dire consequences.
Divine Leaven
By Thomas Brooks0RegenerationTransformationROM 6:142CO 5:17GAL 5:9EPH 2:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the transformative power of regeneration, describing it as a divine leaven that permeates the entire soul of a penitent believer at conversion. This principle of grace is universal, spreading through all faculties and opposing sin in every form. Just as light dispels darkness and heat counters cold, the grace infused by God leads the penitent to turn away from sin and embrace a new life. Brooks illustrates the profound change that occurs within the believer, highlighting the contrast between grace and sin.
One Sin Never Goes Alone
By Thomas Brooks0The Danger of SinSpiritual VigilanceGEN 4:81KI 12:281KI 21:25PRO 4:23MAT 26:14ROM 6:231CO 5:6GAL 5:9HEB 12:1JAS 1:14Thomas Brooks emphasizes that small sins often lead to greater sins, illustrating this with biblical examples such as Cain, Ahab, Jeroboam, and Judas. He warns that yielding to minor transgressions can predispose the heart to commit more serious offenses, creating a dangerous cycle of sin. Brooks stresses the importance of addressing even the smallest sins before they escalate into habits that can ultimately destroy the soul. The sermon serves as a call to vigilance against sin in all its forms, urging believers to cut off sin at its inception.
It Is but a Little Sin!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual VigilanceThe Danger of Small SinsPSA 19:12PRO 4:23MAT 5:29ROM 6:231CO 5:62CO 2:11GAL 5:9HEB 12:1JAS 1:141JN 1:8Thomas Brooks warns against the deceptive nature of 'little sins,' emphasizing that even minor transgressions can lead to significant spiritual danger. He illustrates how small sins, often overlooked, can infiltrate the soul and grow into greater issues, ultimately leading to spiritual death. Brooks uses vivid analogies, such as a little leaven affecting the whole lump and a small hole sinking a ship, to convey the seriousness of seemingly insignificant sins. He urges believers to be vigilant and recognize that neglecting these 'little sins' can have dire consequences for their souls.
Names Which the Holy Spirit Has Given Them
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual DiscernmentWickednessPSA 1:1PRO 13:20MAT 7:15ROM 12:21CO 15:332CO 6:14GAL 5:9EPH 5:11JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of perceiving wicked individuals through the lens of the names given to them in Scripture, such as lions, bears, and vipers, which reflect their true nature. By understanding these descriptions, believers can be warned against the dangers of associating with such individuals, recognizing that their company should be a burden rather than a delight. The sermon encourages Christians to maintain a distance from wickedness and to seek the sweetness of divine love instead.
If This Cockatrice Be Not Crushed in the Egg!
By Thomas Brooks0The Danger of SinSpiritual VigilancePSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAT 5:29ROM 6:231CO 10:12GAL 5:9EPH 4:27HEB 12:1JAS 1:151JN 1:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave danger of even the smallest sin, arguing that it holds more evil than the greatest afflictions or torments. He warns that if sin is not dealt with at its inception, it can grow and lead to irreparable harm to both body and soul. Brooks illustrates this with various analogies, showing how minor issues can lead to catastrophic consequences, much like a small leak can sink a great ship. He stresses the importance of recognizing and crushing sin before it manifests into deeper habits and actions. Ultimately, he calls for vigilance against sin, as it can lead to eternal separation from God.
March 19. 1678. the Old Leaven.
By Jane Lead0EXO 12:15MAT 16:61CO 5:7GAL 5:9Jane Lead emphasizes the importance of removing all leaven from our lives, drawing parallels to the Feast of the Passover where no leaven is to be found. She urges her listeners to search diligently for any leaven of sin or impurity and to remove it completely, in order to demonstrate strict obedience to God's ordinances.
The Life of Elizabeth Ashbridge
By Elizabeth Ashbridge0PSA 139:23MAT 11:28LUK 7:47JHN 14:12CO 4:17GAL 5:9HEB 12:11Elizabeth Ashbridge, a woman of strong faith and perseverance, shares her life story of trials and tribulations, including her journey from being a disobedient wife to a devoted Quaker minister. Despite facing many challenges, such as a tumultuous marriage, financial debts, and spiritual doubts, she remained steadfast in her commitment to God and the Quaker faith. Her experiences of suffering, repentance, and redemption serve as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of faith and the enduring grace of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump - A proverbial expression, see Co1 5:6, very aptly applied to those who receive the smallest tincture of false doctrine, relative to the things essential to salvation, which soon influences the whole conduct, so that the man becomes totally perverted. They might have argued, "It is a small thing, and should not be made a subject of serious controversy, whether we be circumcised or not." Granted, that in itself it is a small matter; but, as every man who is circumcised is a debtor to do the whole law, Gal 5:3, then your circumcision leads necessarily to your total perversion; as the little portion of leaven, mixed with the batch, soon leavens the whole lump.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
A little leaven--the false teaching of the Judaizers. A small portion of legalism, if it be mixed with the Gospel, corrupts its purity. To add legal ordinances and works in the least degree to justification by faith, is to undermine "the whole." So "leaven" is used of false doctrine (Mat 16:12 : compare Mat 13:33). In Co1 5:6 it means the corrupting influence of one bad person; so BENGEL understands it here to refer to the person (Gal 5:7-8, Gal 5:10) who misled them. Ecc 9:18, "One sinner destroyeth much good" (Co1 15:33). I prefer to refer it to false doctrine, answering to "persuasion" (Gal 5:8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I have confidence in you through the Lord,.... Though the apostle had said many things which carried in them the appearance of roughness and severity, yet he still entertained hopes of them that they were not so far gone, but that they might be brought back again; and he here expresses his confidence of it. This confidence in them is not of faith, for no trust is to be put in men; no, not in the best; but of charity, or love, which hopes all things, and believes all things; and which proceeded upon a thorough persuasion he had, that there was some good thing in them; and therefore was confident, that he that had begun the good work would perform it, and not suffer them to be carried away finally and totally with the error of the wicked: and this confidence he had "through the Lord"; either through the Spirit of the Lord, whose office it is to lead into all truth, as it is in Jesus; and who had suggested this to the apostle, and possessed him of this confidence; so that it was not a conjecture and fancy of his, but an intimation from the Spirit of the Lord: or through the Lord Jesus Christ, or "in the Lord", Christ, as the phrase may be rendered; that is, on account of their being in Christ, which the apostle hoped and believed; where they were safe and secure from a final and total seduction; he was confident, that whatever they might seem to be now, things would take a different turn in time: that you will be none otherwise minded; than he was, and they formerly were, when the Gospel was first preached to them, and embraced by them; and particularly in the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ which was the doctrine then called in question, and in debate: but he that troubleth you; he seems to have respect to some particular person, who was the principal of the false teachers, and most famous for his learning, knowledge, gifts, and abilities; and who had done, and was likely to do, the most mischief among them; and was a troubler of God's Israel, and of the pure waters of the sanctuary; he unsettled their minds, and caused them to halt between two, Moses and Christ, law and Gospel, and the doctrines of justification by works, and by the righteousness of Christ; the one being what gave true solid peace and comfort, the other introduced confusion, distress, and fears: the apostle threatens him, and declares that he shall bear his judgment; or condemnation, or damnation, his punishment in this, or the other world; for the judgment, or condemnation, of such that bring in damnable harasses, and pernicious errors, lingereth not, will not be long delayed; and their damnation slumbereth not, but in a little time will seize upon them; when as they have rejected Christ as a sin bearing and atoning Saviour, and his righteousness as the justifying one, they will, agreeably to their own doctrine, be left to bear their punishment themselves, which will be intolerable, and to all eternity; nor shall any escape it, whosoever he be; though ever so knowing and learned, and let his parts and abilities be what they will; or he be ever so famous among men, and cried up as a most excellent preacher.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 This verse was apparently a well-known adage (literally A little yeast makes the whole loaf rise; cp. Matt 13:33; 16:6, 11-12; 1 Cor 5:6-7). A little reliance on the law for acceptance by God soon results in forgetting that Christ saves by his work alone.