Galatians 6:15
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In Christ Jesus - Under the dispensation of the Gospel, of which he is head and supreme, neither circumcision - nothing that the Jew can boast of, nothing that the Gentile can call excellent, availeth any thing - can in the least contribute to the salvation of the soul. But a new creature - Αλλα καινη κτισις· But a new creation; not a new creature merely, (for this might be restrained to any new power or faculty), but a total renewal of the whole man, of all the powers and passions of the soul; and as creation could not be effected but by the power of the Almighty, so this change cannot be effected but by the same energy; no circumcision can do this; only the power that made the man at first can new make him. See the note on Co1 7:19, and on Co2 5:17 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
availeth--The oldest manuscripts read, "is" (compare Gal 5:6). Not only are they of no avail, but they are nothing. So far are they from being matter for "glorying," that they are "nothing." But Christ's cross is "all in all," as a subject for glorying, in "the new creature" (Eph 2:10, Eph 2:15-16). new creature-- (Co2 5:17). A transformation by the renewal of the mind (Rom 12:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And as many as walk according to this rule,.... Or canon; meaning not the canon of the Scriptures in general, which is the perfect rule, and only standard of faith and practice; according to which we are to walk, believe, and act; but either the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ, the subject of this epistle, the truth the apostle had been explaining, vindicating, and confirming; and which to depart from, is going out of the way of truth; and an abiding by it, is walking in it; and is a good rule and standard, by which to distinguish between truth and error; for whatever is contrary to that article of faith cannot be true: or else the rule delivered in the preceding verse, declaring circumcision and uncircumcision to be of no avail in salvation, but a new creature; and to walk according to this rule, is to renounce all trust in, and dependence upon any outward things; to believe alone in Christ, for righteousness and life; to live by faith upon him, and to walk in newness of life, under the influences of his Spirit and grace: peace be on them, and mercy. This is the apostle's godly wish, unfeigned desire, and hearty prayer for all such persons, be they who they will; Jews or Gentiles, circumcised or uncircumcised: by peace he means, a view of their peace with God, made by the blood of Christ; peace in their own consciences, which passes all understanding, and arises from a comfortable sense of justification by the righteousness of Christ, of pardon by his blood, and atonement by his sacrifice; and which is enjoyed in a way of believing; and also peace with one another, among themselves as brethren, which is a very desirable blessing: in short, it includes all prosperity and happiness, inward and outward, temporal, spiritual, and eternal: and by "mercy", he designs the love and grace of God, to sinful miserable creatures in themselves, which is the spring and fountain of all peace and prosperity; and which is displayed in the covenant of grace, and all the blessings of it; in the mission and incarnation of Christ, and redemption by him; in regeneration, forgiveness of sin, and complete salvation; and intends a fresh discovery, manifestation, and application of the mercy of God to his children; who often stand in need thereof, being distressed with the guilt of sin, or are under desertions or afflictive providences, at which time to have mercy showed them, is exceeding suitable and agreeable: when the apostle wishes these to be "on" them, it signifies that these blessings come from above, as every good gift does; that they descend as a cloud, and rest upon them, and abide with them, refreshing, comforting, and protecting them: he adds, and upon the Israel of God; which is a further description of the persons, for whom he prays for these blessings; and is not to be understood by way of distinction from them, but as an amplification of their character; and as pointing out the Israel, by way of emphasis, the Israel, or Israelites indeed, the spiritual Israel, as distinct from Israel according to the flesh; see Co1 10:18. The "Israel of God", or as the Arabic version reads it, "Israel the propriety of God"; which he has a right unto, and a claim upon; who are chosen by him, Israel his elect; who are redeemed by him, out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation; who are called by his grace, and are styled Israel his called; who are justified in his Son, and by his righteousness; and for whose sake he is exalted as a Prince and a Saviour, to give them repentance and remission of sin; and who are, or will be saved by him, with an everlasting salvation; and is a name that includes all God's elect, whether Jews or Gentiles: though it may have a particular respect to such of the Israelites, or Jews, God had foreknown and reserved for himself; and who believed in Christ, and walked as new creatures, without confidence in the flesh. The Jews themselves own, that strangers, or proselytes, shall be called by the name of Israel; so they (b) explain Isa 44:5, latter part. (b) Jarchi & Abarbinel in Isa. xliv. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:15 The Galatians had missed the point of the Good News, that a new creation has come in Christ by the Spirit, not by human effort (cp. 2 Cor 5:16-17).
Galatians 6:15
Final Warnings and Blessings
14But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.15For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is a new creation.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Challenge of Every Christian - Part 2
By Alan Redpath5.6K58:19ChallengeMAT 6:33ACT 2:3ROM 8:92CO 5:15GAL 6:15EPH 4:22In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of why Christians often fail to share their faith with others. He suggests that the reason for this is a lack of understanding and experience of the reality of Jesus in their lives. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the facts of the gospel and having a personal encounter with Jesus in order to be effective in sharing the message of Christ. He also highlights the need for Christians to have a deep and passionate love for Jesus that compels them to share their faith with others. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing his own excitement and enthusiasm for the love of Jesus and the transformative power of being in Christ.
(Exodus) Exodus 5 Introduction
By J. Vernon McGee3.4K12:20EXO 4:22EXO 7:5MAT 6:33GAL 6:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the plagues that God sent upon Egypt to reveal His power and superiority over the gods of Egypt. The plagues were not random, but were specifically targeted at the idolatry and institutions of Egypt. The preacher emphasizes that the Egyptians were not foolish and that there was power in their religions. Through these plagues, God not only delivered His people, but also made Himself known to the Egyptians, showing them that He is the Lord.
Canaan on Earth
By C.H. Spurgeon3.3K39:48DEU 11:11PSA 66:5MAT 7:21ACT 2:41ROM 13:141CO 11:23GAL 6:15The sermon transcript discusses the journey of a man who was initially an infidel but eventually found Christianity and became a preacher. The man went through a period of self-denial and intense study, dedicating himself to his faith. He realized the vanity of his previous pursuits and the importance of gaining spiritual understanding. The sermon also highlights the significance of coming out of Egypt as a symbol of deliverance and the journey through the wilderness as a period of doubt and uncertainty before attaining full faith. The church mentioned in the transcript has experienced this journey and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging God in all aspects of life.
Maintain the Connection - Part 2
By Hans Peter Royer1.7K46:20MAT 6:33JHN 12:25ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 6:15PHP 1:201JN 4:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of hearing the voice of God and being connected with Christ. He emphasizes the need to renew our thinking patterns and let go of our old ways of life. The speaker highlights how Jesus motivated people with love rather than threats, and challenges the audience to examine their own behavior towards their spouses and children. He also mentions the misconception of thinking that selfishness and greed will bring happiness, when in reality, losing our lives for Christ's sake leads to true fulfillment. The sermon concludes with the reminder that although we are born of God, we still need to continually cleanse ourselves in order to remain receptive to God's voice.
Grace for Knowing God
By Bob Hoekstra1.7K1:02:47JHN 6:57JHN 14:10JHN 17:3GAL 2:20GAL 6:15EPH 1:7EPH 2:13PHP 3:8COL 1:272PE 1:22PE 3:18This sermon focuses on the theme of Grace for Knowing God, emphasizing the importance of developing a deep relationship with God through His grace. It highlights the concept of being in Christ and Christ being in us, leading to a transformative life lived by faith in the Son of God. The sermon encourages believers to seek a multiplied abundance of grace and peace through growing in the knowledge and intimacy of God and Jesus our Lord.
The Turtle God's Handiwork
By Dr. A.E. Wilder-Smith1.6K43:27ScienceGEN 1:31PSA 16:11PSA 150:6MAT 6:33GAL 6:15EPH 5:25COL 2:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of instrumentation in our lives, using the example of sea turtles and their ability to navigate the open sea. He emphasizes that even though machines cannot accurately translate languages, individuals with their own volition and understanding of idioms can do so effectively. The speaker also highlights the incredible design and capabilities of various creatures, such as sea turtles and albatrosses, and how they reflect the Lord's delight in creation. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes the need to recognize that there is a person, God, behind the universe and to have a personal relationship with Him rather than praising dead law.
Ministry From Acts 10
By William MacDonald1.1K35:10MinistryMAT 6:33ACT 10:9GAL 6:15In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Acts chapter 10, verses 9 through 16, which tells the story of Peter and how God prepared him for the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles. Peter goes up to the rooftop to pray and while waiting for food, he falls into a trance and sees a vision of a sheet descending from heaven. The speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting people as they are and hoping that they will grow and mature under our loving care. The sermon also highlights the need for hospitality and love in the world, using examples from a poem and a personal story to illustrate the impact of showing kindness to others.
On Regeneration. (2 Cor. 5:17)
By George Whitefield1MAT 7:21JHN 3:3ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 4:22COL 3:9TIT 3:51PE 1:23George Whitefield preaches on the importance of being in Christ and becoming a new creature through regeneration. He emphasizes that true Christianity requires an inward change of heart, not just an outward profession or moral virtues. Whitefield urges believers to examine themselves and strive for a genuine transformation by the Holy Spirit, aligning their lives with the teachings of Christ. He warns against resting in external rituals or partial amendments, stressing the necessity of a complete renewal to fully experience God's grace and prepare for eternal life.
Metamorphosis
By George Warnock0Divine RevelationTransformationJHN 3:3ROM 1:20ROM 12:22CO 3:182CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 4:22PHP 1:6COL 3:101PE 1:23George Warnock explores the concept of metamorphosis through the scientific study of silkworms, illustrating how transformation requires the cooperation of two hormone centers, akin to the spiritual transformation believers undergo. He emphasizes that just as the silkworm needs both brain and thoracic hormones to change, Christians need both divine revelation and personal response to experience true transformation. Warnock highlights that God's presence is evident in creation, yet many fail to see it due to sin and unbelief, urging listeners to seek the truth revealed in nature and scripture.
1 Peter 1:23
By John Gill0New BirthSpiritual FamilyISA 40:8JHN 1:13JHN 3:5JHN 12:34ROM 10:172CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 2:11PE 1:31PE 1:25John Gill emphasizes the transformative power of being born again through God's mercy, highlighting that believers are regenerated not by corruptible seed but by the incorruptible seed of God's Word. This new birth establishes a spiritual family among believers, urging them to love one another as they share the same Father and inheritance. Gill explains that this regeneration is facilitated by the Holy Spirit and the living Word of God, which remains effective and eternal. He contrasts the corrupt nature of the first birth with the purity of the new birth, underscoring the importance of the Gospel in sustaining spiritual life. Ultimately, believers are called to live in accordance with their new identity as children of God.
God Calls to a New Life
By Horatius Bonar0HolinessNew Life in ChristJHN 3:3ROM 6:4ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 2:101TH 4:71PE 1:151PE 2:22PE 3:14Horatius Bonar emphasizes that God calls us to a completely new life, not just improvements in our current existence. This new life is made possible through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and it is the Holy Spirit who empowers this transformation within us. Bonar stresses that this new creation is not merely a retouching of the old but a radical change, where the old self is dead and the new self is alive in Christ. He warns against underestimating sin and highlights the importance of holiness, urging believers to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a life that is wholly dedicated to God, embodying righteousness and holiness in every aspect.
The Beginning of a New Humanity
By T. Austin-Sparks0New HumanitySpiritual TransformationJHN 3:3ROM 8:291CO 15:45GAL 6:15EPH 2:15EPH 4:13COL 3:102PE 3:72PE 3:10REV 21:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the entrance of Jesus Christ into creation marks the beginning of a new humanity, where Christ serves as the Horizon of all things, both in the present and in the future. He discusses the significance of human history, the meaning of Christ and Christianity, the true Church of God, and the essence of spiritual experience, all centered around the person of Christ. Sparks highlights that humanity's misuse of free will has led to frustration and despair, yet through Christ, believers can experience peace, purpose, and hope. Ultimately, he asserts that God is actively forming a new humanity, characterized by spiritual transformation and dependence on Him.
Creational and Racial Union
By T. Austin-Sparks0New CreationSpiritual InheritanceGEN 2:17MAT 11:28ROM 8:171CO 15:452CO 5:17GAL 4:1GAL 6:15EPH 2:10EPH 3:91PE 2:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound transformation that occurs when one is in Christ, highlighting the concept of a new creation that transcends racial and creational boundaries. He explains that this union with Christ is not merely a change in status but a complete reconstitution of one's being, enabling a spiritual relationship with God. Sparks illustrates the journey of faith as a process of learning and adapting to a new spiritual reality, akin to navigating a foreign culture. He cautions that while believers are legally heirs of God's promises, they must actively pursue spiritual growth to fully inherit their divine rights. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of one's identity in Christ and the responsibilities that come with it.
Knowledge of Christ After the Spirit
By T. Austin-Sparks0Christ's UniquenessLiving in the WorldJHN 15:19JHN 17:12ROM 12:21CO 5:92CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 4:15PHP 2:5COL 3:101JN 4:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the uniqueness of Christ as the Son of Man, who embodies the divine intention for a new creation, perfectly balancing his kinship with humanity while remaining distinct from it. He challenges believers to live in the world without being of it, advocating for a life that reflects Christ's understanding, sympathy, and balance in interactions with others. Sparks highlights the importance of being conformed to Christ's image, which requires a reconstitution of our lives through the Holy Spirit, leading to a harmonious existence that embodies both truth and love. He warns against the dangers of alienating others through a misguided sense of holiness and calls for a church that reflects Christ's character and balance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of Christ's headship and the transformative power of the Spirit in creating a new community that expresses the essence of Christ.
Three Significant Men
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual InheritanceIdentity in ChristGEN 1:1GEN 26:3GEN 32:24GEN 37:33EXO 3:6MAT 22:31LUK 13:28ACT 15:14GAL 4:4GAL 6:15Watchman Nee explores the significance of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as pivotal figures in God's plan for His people. He emphasizes that God identifies Himself with these three men to illustrate His sovereignty, the principle of receiving, and the necessity of divine discipline in the lives of believers. Each patriarch represents a unique aspect of God's relationship with humanity: Abraham as the Father and source, Isaac as the recipient of God's promises, and Jacob as the one who learns to rely on God rather than his own strength. Through their experiences, Nee encourages believers to embrace their identity as the 'Israel of God' and to understand the fullness of their spiritual inheritance. Ultimately, the sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's work in our lives and the transformative journey of faith.
Israel's Future as a Nation
By John F. Walvoord0GEN 12:9JER 31:35ROM 11:26GAL 6:15EPH 2:12John F. Walvoord delves into the prophecy relating to Israel's future as a nation, exploring the various viewpoints on whether Israel exists today and has a future. He discusses the denial of Israel's existence, the belief in Israel's continuity as a race but not as a nation, and the premillennial teaching that Israel has a future as a nation in the millennial kingdom. Through a detailed analysis of biblical promises, historical evidence, and New Testament passages, Walvoord affirms that Israel's future as a nation is intricately tied to God's everlasting covenant and the fulfillment of prophecies, emphasizing the distinction between Israel, Gentiles, and the church.
Part 14: The Abrahamic Covenant and Premillennialism
By John F. Walvoord0ROM 9:4GAL 6:15EPH 2:12EPH 2:15John F. Walvoord delves into the debate on whether Israel will continue as a nation, focusing on the meanings of the term 'Seed of Abraham' and 'Israel' in Scripture. He addresses the arguments presented by amillenarians regarding the fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant only through the spiritual seed of Abraham, emphasizing the distinction between the physical and spiritual seed. Walvoord highlights the significance of Israel's racial continuity, pointing out the preservation of Jewish identity as a strong argument against denying Israel's future. He explores the distinctions between Israel, Gentiles, and the church, emphasizing the continuation of Israel and Gentiles as separate entities with specific promises and blessings.
Homily 6 on Galatians
By St. John Chrysostom0GAL 6:1GAL 6:15GAL 6:17John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of restoring those who have stumbled in sin with gentleness and meekness, cautioning against arrogance and urging self-examination to avoid hypocrisy. He encourages believers to bear one another's burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ through mutual support and endurance. Chrysostom highlights the insignificance of external practices like circumcision compared to being a new creation in Christ, calling for a focus on spiritual transformation. He concludes with a prayer for the grace of Jesus Christ to be with the believers' spirits, sealing his exhortation with blessings and a reminder of the importance of grace and the indwelling Spirit.
Liberated From Law
By Miles J. Stanford0GAL 5:1GAL 6:151TI 1:9Miles J. Stanford emphasizes that as Christians, our rule of life is not the law given to the Israelites but being 'in Christ... a new creature' (Galatians 6:15). We are called to walk as pilgrims and strangers on earth, a concept not taught by the law. The law is meant to deal with the lawless, while our dependence should be on the power of God under pure grace, not on the flesh. Therefore, we are urged to stand firm in the liberty Christ has given us and avoid being entangled again in the yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1).
The Rule of the Cloud
By George Warnock0PSA 32:8PRO 3:5ISA 52:12JHN 10:27GAL 6:15George Warnock emphasizes the importance of following God's lead in ministry and service, highlighting the need for God to give direction and go before us. He contrasts the common teaching of taking the initiative in ministry with the biblical principle of waiting on God and following His guidance. Warnock encourages believers to move forward with God, even if it seems contrary to human reasoning, and to embrace the Rule of the Cloud, symbolizing God's leading and confirmation in our lives.
By Water and the Spirit
By G.W. North0New BirthBaptismGEN 1:2JHN 1:12JHN 3:5ACT 2:38ROM 6:42CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 2:1TIT 3:51PE 1:23G.W. North emphasizes that both the physical creation and the spiritual new birth occur simultaneously through the combined work of water and the Spirit. He illustrates that just as the Spirit of God was present during creation, so too is it essential for the new creation in Christ, which he refers to as Baptismal Regeneration. North argues that this regeneration is a continuation of God's original method, where the outward baptism symbolizes the inward spiritual transformation. He highlights the distinction between the first birth and the new birth, underscoring the necessity of spiritual rebirth for eternal life. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize the profound connection between physical and spiritual realities in God's redemptive plan.
Day 48, Galatians 1
By David Servant0DEU 10:16JER 4:4ACT 15:1ROM 3:282CO 5:17GAL 5:19GAL 6:15EPH 2:8TIT 3:5David Servant delves into the letter of Galatians, written by Paul around 48 A.D., to address the unique problem of a distorted gospel that had surfaced among the churches. The early church thrived for 18 years without the need for Galatians, indicating God's timing in revealing this crucial message. Paul clarifies that holiness is not the means to salvation, countering the misconception that circumcision and adherence to the Law of Moses were necessary for Gentile believers. The essence of Galatians lies in becoming a new creation in Christ, emphasizing that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works or rituals.
Epistle 240
By George Fox0GEN 4:31CO 7:141CO 11:3GAL 6:15COL 2:16JAS 1:17JUD 1:11REV 14:6George Fox preaches about the importance of staying true to the power of God and not getting caught up in outward rituals or worship practices. He highlights how various individuals and groups throughout history, like Cain, the children of Israel, and the Corinthians, strayed from the true worship of God by focusing on external observances. Fox emphasizes the need to focus on the life and power of God, rather than on temporary, earthly matters, and to seek unity, righteousness, and joy in the Holy Spirit. He warns against falling into disputes over trivial matters like food, drink, or outward appearances, and encourages believers to prioritize the new creature in Christ, faith working through love, and the eternal gospel.
Twee Koninkrijken - 2 (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch0MAT 13:25JHN 3:3JHN 12:312CO 4:4GAL 6:15REV 19:16Anton Bosch preaches about the stark differences between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, emphasizing that God's Kingdom is completely separate and will never merge with worldly kingdoms. While the ruler of the world and its kingdoms is Satan, those who participate in worldly kingdoms ultimately submit to his authority. In contrast, the Kingdom of God is under the sovereignty of Jesus, but many who claim to be part of this Kingdom do not fully submit to His rule, acting as their own kings. Being a resident of God's Kingdom requires unwavering loyalty to the King.
Two Kingdoms - 2
By Anton Bosch0JER 31:33MAT 6:10MAT 13:25JHN 3:3JHN 12:311CO 2:142CO 4:4GAL 6:15REV 19:16Anton Bosch preaches on the clear distinction between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world, emphasizing that God's Kingdom is fundamentally different and eternal, while worldly kingdoms are under the rule of Satan. He highlights the importance of submitting to Jesus as the King of God's Kingdom, stressing that true citizens must show unwavering loyalty and obedience to Him. Bosch warns against disloyalty within the Kingdom, comparing it to treason, and urges believers to be born again into God's Kingdom to truly become citizens and see its spiritual reality.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In Christ Jesus - Under the dispensation of the Gospel, of which he is head and supreme, neither circumcision - nothing that the Jew can boast of, nothing that the Gentile can call excellent, availeth any thing - can in the least contribute to the salvation of the soul. But a new creature - Αλλα καινη κτισις· But a new creation; not a new creature merely, (for this might be restrained to any new power or faculty), but a total renewal of the whole man, of all the powers and passions of the soul; and as creation could not be effected but by the power of the Almighty, so this change cannot be effected but by the same energy; no circumcision can do this; only the power that made the man at first can new make him. See the note on Co1 7:19, and on Co2 5:17 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
availeth--The oldest manuscripts read, "is" (compare Gal 5:6). Not only are they of no avail, but they are nothing. So far are they from being matter for "glorying," that they are "nothing." But Christ's cross is "all in all," as a subject for glorying, in "the new creature" (Eph 2:10, Eph 2:15-16). new creature-- (Co2 5:17). A transformation by the renewal of the mind (Rom 12:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And as many as walk according to this rule,.... Or canon; meaning not the canon of the Scriptures in general, which is the perfect rule, and only standard of faith and practice; according to which we are to walk, believe, and act; but either the doctrine of justification by the righteousness of Christ, the subject of this epistle, the truth the apostle had been explaining, vindicating, and confirming; and which to depart from, is going out of the way of truth; and an abiding by it, is walking in it; and is a good rule and standard, by which to distinguish between truth and error; for whatever is contrary to that article of faith cannot be true: or else the rule delivered in the preceding verse, declaring circumcision and uncircumcision to be of no avail in salvation, but a new creature; and to walk according to this rule, is to renounce all trust in, and dependence upon any outward things; to believe alone in Christ, for righteousness and life; to live by faith upon him, and to walk in newness of life, under the influences of his Spirit and grace: peace be on them, and mercy. This is the apostle's godly wish, unfeigned desire, and hearty prayer for all such persons, be they who they will; Jews or Gentiles, circumcised or uncircumcised: by peace he means, a view of their peace with God, made by the blood of Christ; peace in their own consciences, which passes all understanding, and arises from a comfortable sense of justification by the righteousness of Christ, of pardon by his blood, and atonement by his sacrifice; and which is enjoyed in a way of believing; and also peace with one another, among themselves as brethren, which is a very desirable blessing: in short, it includes all prosperity and happiness, inward and outward, temporal, spiritual, and eternal: and by "mercy", he designs the love and grace of God, to sinful miserable creatures in themselves, which is the spring and fountain of all peace and prosperity; and which is displayed in the covenant of grace, and all the blessings of it; in the mission and incarnation of Christ, and redemption by him; in regeneration, forgiveness of sin, and complete salvation; and intends a fresh discovery, manifestation, and application of the mercy of God to his children; who often stand in need thereof, being distressed with the guilt of sin, or are under desertions or afflictive providences, at which time to have mercy showed them, is exceeding suitable and agreeable: when the apostle wishes these to be "on" them, it signifies that these blessings come from above, as every good gift does; that they descend as a cloud, and rest upon them, and abide with them, refreshing, comforting, and protecting them: he adds, and upon the Israel of God; which is a further description of the persons, for whom he prays for these blessings; and is not to be understood by way of distinction from them, but as an amplification of their character; and as pointing out the Israel, by way of emphasis, the Israel, or Israelites indeed, the spiritual Israel, as distinct from Israel according to the flesh; see Co1 10:18. The "Israel of God", or as the Arabic version reads it, "Israel the propriety of God"; which he has a right unto, and a claim upon; who are chosen by him, Israel his elect; who are redeemed by him, out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation; who are called by his grace, and are styled Israel his called; who are justified in his Son, and by his righteousness; and for whose sake he is exalted as a Prince and a Saviour, to give them repentance and remission of sin; and who are, or will be saved by him, with an everlasting salvation; and is a name that includes all God's elect, whether Jews or Gentiles: though it may have a particular respect to such of the Israelites, or Jews, God had foreknown and reserved for himself; and who believed in Christ, and walked as new creatures, without confidence in the flesh. The Jews themselves own, that strangers, or proselytes, shall be called by the name of Israel; so they (b) explain Isa 44:5, latter part. (b) Jarchi & Abarbinel in Isa. xliv. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:15 The Galatians had missed the point of the Good News, that a new creation has come in Christ by the Spirit, not by human effort (cp. 2 Cor 5:16-17).