Galatians 6
Ephesians 6 is the closing section of the letter apostle Paul sent. This chapter deals with relationships within the community of faith (such as in the home and at work), the spiritual battle as Christians, and the final greetings. Overall, it shows what it means to practice God’s righteousness in a continuous way, and it offers practical lessons that can apply to both individuals and the community.
1verseBrothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted.
2verseBear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
3verseFor if a man thinks himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
4verseBut let each man examine his own work, and then he will have reason to boast in himself, and not in someone else.
5verseFor each man will bear his own burden.
6verseBut let him who is taught in the word share all good things with him who teaches.
7verseDon’t be deceived. God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
8verseFor he who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption. But he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
9verseLet’s not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season if we don’t give up.
10verseSo then, as we have opportunity, let’s do what is good toward all men, and especially toward those who are of the household of the faith.
11verseSee with what large letters I write to you with my own hand.
12verseAs many as desire to make a good impression in the flesh compel you to be circumcised, just so they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.
13verseFor even they who receive circumcision don’t keep the law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised, so that they may boast in your flesh.
14verseBut far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
15verseFor in Christ Jesus neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.
16verseAs many as walk by this rule, peace and mercy be on them, and on God’s Israel.
17verseFrom now on, let no one cause me any trouble, for I bear the marks of the Lord Jesus branded on my body.
18verseThe grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.
Relationships in the Home and at Work (Verses 1–9)
- Children and parents: Children are to obey their parents, and parents are to raise their children with the Lord’s instruction and discipline. Here, mutual respect and responsibility are emphasized.
- Servants and masters: In keeping with the social structures of that time, those who work and those who have authority are encouraged to treat one another with truthfulness, respect, and right motives. Today, this can be applied in how we treat one another with kindness in our workplaces or social relationships.
Spiritual Warfare and God’s Armor (Verses 10–20)
In this section, Paul urges us to put on God’s full armor in order to stand against the "schemes of the devil." Faith elements such as faith, righteousness, salvation, the Word, the gospel, and prayer are each likened to parts of armor, helping us realize that the Christian life is not just about becoming a good person, but about an unseen spiritual battle. He repeatedly emphasizes that this battle cannot be won by human strength, but only by relying on God’s power.
Final Exhortation and Greetings (Verses 21–24)
Through Tychicus, Paul shares news about himself and the gospel ministry, and he blesses the saints with peace, love, and faith. As he closes the long letter, he encourages and comforts each person, once again highlighting the community’s love and unity.
Meditation Points
- Do I maintain a balance between gentle authority and obedience in the place where I live my life?
- Do I recognize the reality of spiritual warfare and put on God’s armor every day?
- Am I sharing the gospel’s peace and love with my community and the people around me?
Try Applying It to Yourself
- In your relationships around you—at home, with friends, at work, and so on—consider how you can live out Paul’s exhortation.
- When you are spiritually struggling or when temptation is strong, set specific small practices for how you can prepare to equip yourself with God’s full armor.
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This is the last chapter of Galatians.