Galatians 6:1-10
Q.1. How should sin be dealt with in the church? How are we to treat others? Why should we focus on examining our own works? – (Gal.6:1-5)
Sin in the church must not be ignored. However, those dealing with these offenses are warned to be sympathetic – Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted (Gal.6:1). Humility is required in all involved, so there can be repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. Humility is essential because we all sin and offend in many ways. We are to genuinely care for others and – bear one another’s burdens (Gal.6:2). This is what Christ commanded in the Upper Room (c.f. Jn.13:34-35). Paul repeated the danger of pride – for if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself (Gal.6:3). He wanted the Galatians to remember that who we are is because of Christ. It is easy to boast our attachment to a fellowship, ministry, or mission. However, Paul advised the Galatians to take part in healthy introspection and consider (not boast to others) our own contribution to the Lord’s work (Gal.6:4).
Q.2. How should teachers be supported? What warning did Paul give about sowing and reaping? Are we to do good to everyone? – (Gal.6:6-10)
Though Paul did not normally avail himself of the support of others, he did recognize the appropriateness of such support (c.f. 1 Cor.9:8-14; 1 Tim.5:17-18). Consequently, he wrote that – the one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches (Gal.6:6). For Paul, giving to God and others worked along the same principle as sowing seed and reaping a harvest. Since we can be self-deceived and carnal in the sphere of giving, he warned – 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life (Gal.6:7-8). Spirit inspired giving brings everlasting results. Paul used the same imagery when he challenged the Corinthians to give generously (2 Cor.9:6). He was aware that sowing can produce very different yields, because of the weather over which we have no control. He urged us to – not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary (2 Cor.9:9). Though we should do good to all people, Paul directed that we should especially support – … those who are of the household of the faith (Gal.6:10). The secret to faithful giving is to keep our focus on God as we give to the church, or to which particular ministry or mission He directs us to support (c.f. Gal.6:7-8).