Galatians 6:5
Verse
Context
Sermons
J. Glyn Owen
Gareth Evans
A.W. TozerA.W. Tozer
J.R. MillerJ.R. Miller
Zac PoonenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Every man shall bear his own burden - All must answer for themselves, not for their neighbors. And every man must expect to be dealt with by the Divine Judge, as his character and conduct have been. The greater offenses of another will not excuse thy smaller crimes. Every man must give account of himself to God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For (by this way, Gal 6:4, of proving himself, not depreciating his neighbor by comparison) each man shall bear his own "burden," or rather, "load" (namely, of sin and infirmity), the Greek being different from that in Gal 6:2. This verse does not contradict Gal 6:2. There he tells them to bear with others' "burdens" of infirmity in sympathy; here, that self-examination will make a man to feel he has enough to do with "his own load" of sin, without comparing himself boastfully with his neighbor. Compare Gal 6:3. Instead of "thinking himself to be something," he shall feel the "load" of his own sin: and this will lead him to bear sympathetically with his neighbor's burden of infirmity. ÆSOP says a man carries two bags over his shoulder, the one with his own sins hanging behind, that with his neighbor's sins in front.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For every man shall bear his own burden. That is, either do his own work, which God has allotted him to do, whether in a more public or private station of life; which, because it is generally troublesome to the flesh, is called a "burden", and "his own", being peculiar to himself, and in which no other is concerned; and which he should patiently bear, cheerfully attend to, and constantly and faithfully perform while in this world: or he shall give an account of his own actions, and not another's, to God, in the other world; he shall be judged according to his own works, what they are in themselves, and not by a comparison of other men's, who have been more wicked than he; which will be no rule of judgment with God, nor of any advantage to man. Every wicked man will bear his own burden; that is, the punishment of his own sins, and not another's; so the judgments of God, inflicted on men in this world, are often called "a burden"; see Isa 13:1 and so may the punishment of the wicked in another world, which will be grievous and intolerable. The saints will be exempt from bearing this burden, because Christ has bore it for them, even all their sins, and all the punishment due unto them; but another burden, if it may be so called, even an exceeding and eternal weight of glory, shall be bore by them; and every man shall receive his own reward, and not another's; and that according to his own works and labour, and not another's; not indeed for his works, but according to them, the nature of them, according to the grace of God, from whence his works spring, and by which they are performed. This the apostle says to take off men from dwelling upon, and censuring the actions of others, and from making use of them to set off their own, and buoy themselves up with vain hopes, because they are better than others; and also to engage them to attend strictly to their own actions, and consider them simply and absolutely as in themselves, and not as compared with other men's, since they will be accountable for their own actions, and not other men's; and will be judged according to their own works, and not in a comparative view to others. and so may the punishment of the wicked in another world, which will be grievous and intolerable. The saints will be exempt from bearing this burden, because Christ has bore it for them, even all their sins, and all the punishment due unto them; but another burden, if it may be so called, even an exceeding and eternal weight of glory, shall be bore by them; and every man shall receive his own reward, and not another's; and that according to his own works and labour, and not another's; not indeed for his works, but according to them, the nature of them, according to the grace of God, from whence his works spring, and by which they are performed. This the apostle says to take off men from dwelling upon, and censuring the actions of others, and from making use of them to set off their own, and buoy themselves up with vain hopes, because they are better than others; and also to engage them to attend strictly to their own actions, and consider them simply and absolutely as in themselves, and not as compared with other men's, since they will be accountable for their own actions, and not other men's; and will be judged according to their own works, and not in a comparative view to others. Galatians 6:6 gal 6:6 gal 6:6 gal 6:6Let him that is taught in the word,.... Instructed in the knowledge of the word, either of the essential Word, the Lord Jesus Christ, of his person, office, and grace; or rather of the written word, particularly the Gospel, which is sometimes called the word, without any additional epithet, which distinguishes it, and directs to the sense of it; and sometimes with such, as the words of truth, the word of faith, the word of righteousness, the word of reconciliation, and the word of this salvation, so called from the nature, use, and subject matter of it. He that is taught in this, is, according to the original word used here, a "catechumen"; and which designs not one that is just beginning to learn the first principles of the oracles of God, but anyone that is instructed in it, as this word is rendered in Rom 2:18 whether more or less, or whether internally or externally: one that is internally taught in and by the word, is one that has been taught to know himself, and his lost state by nature; to know Christ, and salvation by him; to know the truths of the Gospel, and to deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly. It may include everyone that is only outwardly taught, that is but an external hearer; and so the Syriac version renders the clause, , "he that hears the word": of which there are many sorts, and on whom it is an incumbent duty to communicate to him that teacheth; who is commissioned, and qualified and sent forth by Christ, and whose office in the church is to teach the word, to preach the Gospel, to instruct men in the truths of it, and teach them their duty also to God and men, such are to be communicated to; that is, such as are under their instructions ought to impart of their worldly substance to them, for their honourable and comfortable support and maintenance; for since they spend their time, and make use of their talents, gifts, and abilities, for their instruction in spiritual things, it is but reasonable, and no such great matter, that they partake of their carnal things; and especially since it is the will and ordinance of Christ, that they that preach the Gospel should live of it. The apostle adds, in all good things; which may be either connected with the word "teacheth", and so be descriptive of the teacher, as the Arabic version reads, "him that teacheth all his good things"; good doctrines, excellent truths, the wholesome words of Christ, which he is intrusted with, has a knowledge and experience of; and who freely and faithfully imparts them, and conceals and keeps back nothing, but declares the whole counsel of God, all that he knows, and that is good and profitable; and carries in it a very strong argument why he should be communicated to: or else with the word "communicate"; and the sense either be, let him be a partaker of, and join with him in everything he says or does that is good, but not in anything that is evil, which is a sense some give into; or rather let him impart of his temporal good things unto him: temporal things are good as they are of God, and in themselves, and when rightly used answer good purposes; all a man's good things are not to be communicated, only a part, according to his ability, and in proportion to others; and yet the communication should be large and liberal, sufficient to support the teacher in an honourable manner, and to supply him with all the necessaries of life, that his mind may be free from secular cares, and he be at leisure to attend to the instructing of others.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:5 If believers carry their own load (6:4), they will have no occasion to treat a brother or sister with contempt (6:3).
Galatians 6:5
Carry One Another’s Burdens
4Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else.5For each one should carry his own load.6Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Working Faith: Arrogant Presumption Exposed
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K55:51FaithMAT 7:1MAT 7:12GAL 6:1GAL 6:5JAS 4:1JAS 4:11In this sermon on James 4:11-12, the preacher emphasizes the ongoing battle against sin in the Christian life. He warns against the arrogance and presumption that can lead to offensive words and judgments against fellow Christians. The preacher also highlights the importance of growing in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. Additionally, he addresses the issue of planning our lives and business programs without considering God's sovereignty. The sermon emphasizes the need to avoid arrogant presumption in our relationships within the Christian church.
Tactics of Satan
By Gareth Evans1.2K40:49SatanROM 12:6ROM 12:101CO 12:41CO 12:7GAL 6:5EPH 4:4EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of seeing over 100 young adults come to Christ in his small town. He emphasizes the joy of serving God and witnessing His anointing in ministry. The speaker also encourages the audience to focus on their own calling from God and not try to be something else. He then tells a story about a man he met at a men's retreat who later organized a car repair day at his church, highlighting the importance of using one's gifts to serve others and build unity in the body of Christ. The sermon references Ephesians 4:4-11, which speaks about the different gifts given by Christ to equip the saints for ministry.
Encountering God
By A.W. Tozer0Individual Relationship with GodPersonal Revival2CH 7:14PSA 51:10ISA 55:6MAT 6:6JHN 15:5ACT 3:19ROM 12:2GAL 6:5JAS 4:81PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes that to receive God's best, one must engage in a personal relationship with Him, independent of the collective state of the church. He asserts that individual revival is essential before one can influence others, as every significant leader in faith has first encountered God alone. This personal encounter with the Holy Spirit allows individuals to be transformed and equipped to bring renewal to their communities. Tozer encourages believers to seek personal revival, highlighting that God’s attention is focused on the individual heart.
Accepting Personal Responsibility
By A.W. Tozer0Personal ResponsibilityFaith in GodPSA 46:1ISA 41:10MAT 5:14JHN 15:5ROM 14:122CO 5:17GAL 6:5PHP 4:13JAS 1:121PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of accepting personal responsibility in one's spiritual life, asserting that regardless of how twisted one's life may be, hope exists if one maintains a right attitude toward God. He argues that faith should not acknowledge any third party in the relationship with God, and that a quiet attitude of faith and love allows God to fulfill His commitments. Tozer highlights that Christians can thrive spiritually regardless of external circumstances, as they carry their own spiritual climate. He warns against blaming spiritual failures on others or external situations, as this habit can lead to a painful realization of personal accountability.
The Hallowing of Our Burden
By J.R. Miller0Divine Love in TrialsBurden as a GiftPSA 55:22ISA 41:10MAT 11:28ROM 8:282CO 1:32CO 12:9GAL 6:5PHP 4:13JAS 1:21PE 5:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the significance of recognizing our burdens as gifts from God, rather than mere weights to bear. He explains that while we all carry burdens of care, sorrow, and responsibility, these experiences are essential for our growth and cannot be transferred to others. Instead of seeking relief from our burdens, we should understand that God sustains us through them, transforming our perspective on pain and struggle into a recognition of divine love. By viewing our burdens as tokens of God's affection, we can cherish them and find strength in our trials, knowing they are meant to help us grow stronger in faith. Ultimately, Miller encourages us to honor these gifts from God, as they are integral to our spiritual journey.
The Value and Responsibility of One Life
By J.R. Miller0Faithfulness in DutyIndividual Responsibility1KI 19:18MAT 5:14ROM 14:12GAL 6:5J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound value and responsibility of each individual life in his sermon, drawing parallels to Elijah's stand for God amidst widespread apostasy. He illustrates that, like Elijah, each person is uniquely positioned to fulfill their divine purpose, and their faithfulness can prevent moral ruin in their surroundings. Miller warns against the complacency of thinking our actions are insignificant, reminding us that even the smallest efforts can have monumental consequences. He encourages listeners to focus on their own responsibilities rather than judging others, as each life is accountable for its own choices and duties. Ultimately, the sermon calls for diligence and commitment to God's work, as our lives may be the only barrier against disaster for others.
Pharisees Bind Heavy Burdens on Others
By Zac Poonen0True DiscipleshipHypocrisyMAT 7:3MAT 11:30MAT 23:4LUK 11:46JHN 8:32ROM 14:132CO 1:24GAL 6:5JAS 3:11PE 5:2Zac Poonen addresses the hypocrisy of Pharisaical preachers who impose heavy burdens on others while failing to uphold the same standards themselves. He shares a personal experience from a youth camp where a speaker demanded excessive devotion without practicing it himself, revealing the inconsistency and burden of such teachings. Poonen emphasizes that true preaching should liberate and bless rather than bind and burden, contrasting the approach of Jesus, who used Scripture to free people rather than constrain them. He warns that many young people are disillusioned with church due to these burdensome teachings, which misrepresent God's Word.
What to Do With Burdens
By A.W. Tozer0Trusting GodBurdensPSA 34:18PSA 55:22ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 16:33ROM 8:28GAL 6:2GAL 6:5PHP 4:61PE 5:7A.W. Tozer discusses the nature of burdens in life, referencing Meister Eckhart's insight that the weight of burdens is irrelevant if the Lord carries them for us. He identifies three types of burdens: the burden of loving help we should offer to others, the moral responsibilities we must bear ourselves, and the burdens stemming from our fallen state, which include sin and sorrow. Tozer emphasizes that while the first two burdens can be manageable, the third can be detrimental to our well-being. He encourages believers to cast their cares upon the Lord, who promises to sustain us, thus alleviating the weight of our struggles.
1 Peter 4:15
By John Gill0Righteous LivingAccountabilityGEN 9:6EXO 22:1PRO 28:13MAT 7:1GAL 6:51TH 4:112TH 3:111TI 5:13JAS 4:111PE 4:15John Gill emphasizes that Christians should not suffer for wrongdoing, such as murder, theft, or being a busybody in others' affairs. He explains that the consequences of such actions are severe, as outlined in the law of God, and that suffering for these reasons is disgraceful for a believer. Instead, Christians are called to live righteously and focus on their own responsibilities rather than meddling in the lives of others. Gill warns against the dangers of covetousness and the pursuit of others' goods, which can lead to moral failure. Ultimately, he encourages believers to uphold their integrity and character in all circumstances.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Every man shall bear his own burden - All must answer for themselves, not for their neighbors. And every man must expect to be dealt with by the Divine Judge, as his character and conduct have been. The greater offenses of another will not excuse thy smaller crimes. Every man must give account of himself to God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For (by this way, Gal 6:4, of proving himself, not depreciating his neighbor by comparison) each man shall bear his own "burden," or rather, "load" (namely, of sin and infirmity), the Greek being different from that in Gal 6:2. This verse does not contradict Gal 6:2. There he tells them to bear with others' "burdens" of infirmity in sympathy; here, that self-examination will make a man to feel he has enough to do with "his own load" of sin, without comparing himself boastfully with his neighbor. Compare Gal 6:3. Instead of "thinking himself to be something," he shall feel the "load" of his own sin: and this will lead him to bear sympathetically with his neighbor's burden of infirmity. ÆSOP says a man carries two bags over his shoulder, the one with his own sins hanging behind, that with his neighbor's sins in front.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For every man shall bear his own burden. That is, either do his own work, which God has allotted him to do, whether in a more public or private station of life; which, because it is generally troublesome to the flesh, is called a "burden", and "his own", being peculiar to himself, and in which no other is concerned; and which he should patiently bear, cheerfully attend to, and constantly and faithfully perform while in this world: or he shall give an account of his own actions, and not another's, to God, in the other world; he shall be judged according to his own works, what they are in themselves, and not by a comparison of other men's, who have been more wicked than he; which will be no rule of judgment with God, nor of any advantage to man. Every wicked man will bear his own burden; that is, the punishment of his own sins, and not another's; so the judgments of God, inflicted on men in this world, are often called "a burden"; see Isa 13:1 and so may the punishment of the wicked in another world, which will be grievous and intolerable. The saints will be exempt from bearing this burden, because Christ has bore it for them, even all their sins, and all the punishment due unto them; but another burden, if it may be so called, even an exceeding and eternal weight of glory, shall be bore by them; and every man shall receive his own reward, and not another's; and that according to his own works and labour, and not another's; not indeed for his works, but according to them, the nature of them, according to the grace of God, from whence his works spring, and by which they are performed. This the apostle says to take off men from dwelling upon, and censuring the actions of others, and from making use of them to set off their own, and buoy themselves up with vain hopes, because they are better than others; and also to engage them to attend strictly to their own actions, and consider them simply and absolutely as in themselves, and not as compared with other men's, since they will be accountable for their own actions, and not other men's; and will be judged according to their own works, and not in a comparative view to others. and so may the punishment of the wicked in another world, which will be grievous and intolerable. The saints will be exempt from bearing this burden, because Christ has bore it for them, even all their sins, and all the punishment due unto them; but another burden, if it may be so called, even an exceeding and eternal weight of glory, shall be bore by them; and every man shall receive his own reward, and not another's; and that according to his own works and labour, and not another's; not indeed for his works, but according to them, the nature of them, according to the grace of God, from whence his works spring, and by which they are performed. This the apostle says to take off men from dwelling upon, and censuring the actions of others, and from making use of them to set off their own, and buoy themselves up with vain hopes, because they are better than others; and also to engage them to attend strictly to their own actions, and consider them simply and absolutely as in themselves, and not as compared with other men's, since they will be accountable for their own actions, and not other men's; and will be judged according to their own works, and not in a comparative view to others. Galatians 6:6 gal 6:6 gal 6:6 gal 6:6Let him that is taught in the word,.... Instructed in the knowledge of the word, either of the essential Word, the Lord Jesus Christ, of his person, office, and grace; or rather of the written word, particularly the Gospel, which is sometimes called the word, without any additional epithet, which distinguishes it, and directs to the sense of it; and sometimes with such, as the words of truth, the word of faith, the word of righteousness, the word of reconciliation, and the word of this salvation, so called from the nature, use, and subject matter of it. He that is taught in this, is, according to the original word used here, a "catechumen"; and which designs not one that is just beginning to learn the first principles of the oracles of God, but anyone that is instructed in it, as this word is rendered in Rom 2:18 whether more or less, or whether internally or externally: one that is internally taught in and by the word, is one that has been taught to know himself, and his lost state by nature; to know Christ, and salvation by him; to know the truths of the Gospel, and to deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly. It may include everyone that is only outwardly taught, that is but an external hearer; and so the Syriac version renders the clause, , "he that hears the word": of which there are many sorts, and on whom it is an incumbent duty to communicate to him that teacheth; who is commissioned, and qualified and sent forth by Christ, and whose office in the church is to teach the word, to preach the Gospel, to instruct men in the truths of it, and teach them their duty also to God and men, such are to be communicated to; that is, such as are under their instructions ought to impart of their worldly substance to them, for their honourable and comfortable support and maintenance; for since they spend their time, and make use of their talents, gifts, and abilities, for their instruction in spiritual things, it is but reasonable, and no such great matter, that they partake of their carnal things; and especially since it is the will and ordinance of Christ, that they that preach the Gospel should live of it. The apostle adds, in all good things; which may be either connected with the word "teacheth", and so be descriptive of the teacher, as the Arabic version reads, "him that teacheth all his good things"; good doctrines, excellent truths, the wholesome words of Christ, which he is intrusted with, has a knowledge and experience of; and who freely and faithfully imparts them, and conceals and keeps back nothing, but declares the whole counsel of God, all that he knows, and that is good and profitable; and carries in it a very strong argument why he should be communicated to: or else with the word "communicate"; and the sense either be, let him be a partaker of, and join with him in everything he says or does that is good, but not in anything that is evil, which is a sense some give into; or rather let him impart of his temporal good things unto him: temporal things are good as they are of God, and in themselves, and when rightly used answer good purposes; all a man's good things are not to be communicated, only a part, according to his ability, and in proportion to others; and yet the communication should be large and liberal, sufficient to support the teacher in an honourable manner, and to supply him with all the necessaries of life, that his mind may be free from secular cares, and he be at leisure to attend to the instructing of others.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:5 If believers carry their own load (6:4), they will have no occasion to treat a brother or sister with contempt (6:3).