Galatians 2:10

Only [they would] that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

Only {G3440} they would that {G2443} we should remember {G3421} the poor {G4434}; the same {G846}{G5124} which {G3739} I {G4704} also {G2532} was forward {G4704} to do {G4160}.

Their only request was that we should remember the poor — which very thing I have spared no pains to do.

They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.

only they would that we should remember the poor; which very thing I was also zealous to do.

Commentary on Galatians 2:10 (KJV)

Galatians 2:10 states: "Only [they would] that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do." This concise verse concludes Paul's account of his pivotal meeting with the leading apostles in Jerusalem—James, Cephas (Peter), and John—who were considered "pillars" of the early church.

Context

This verse is found within Paul's defense of his apostolic authority and the gospel he preached, particularly to the Gentiles, which emphasized salvation by grace through faith apart from the Mosaic Law. In Galatians 2:1-10, Paul recounts his private meeting in Jerusalem to ensure that his missionary efforts were not "in vain." The Jerusalem apostles affirmed Paul's gospel and his unique ministry to the Gentiles, just as Peter had a ministry to the Jews (Galatians 2:7-9). Their only specific request or "stipulation" was that Paul and Barnabas should "remember the poor."

Key Themes

  • Unity in the Gospel: Despite potential theological differences or differing target audiences (Jews vs. Gentiles), the apostles found common ground in the core gospel message and recognized each other's genuine callings. The practical concern for the poor served as a unifying factor, demonstrating that true faith is not merely intellectual but also active.
  • Compassion for the Needy: The Jerusalem leaders' request highlights the inherent value placed on caring for the poor and vulnerable within the Christian community. This was not an add-on but an integral part of their understanding of practical Christianity, reflecting the teachings of Jesus.
  • Paul's Consistent Benevolence: Paul's immediate affirmation, "the same which I also was forward to do," underscores his already established commitment to practical charity. This wasn't a new idea for him but a continuation of his practice. His letters frequently mention his efforts to collect aid for the poor saints in Jerusalem, such as detailed in 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 and 2 Corinthians 8-9, demonstrating that his gospel of grace was always accompanied by works of love.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "poor" here is ptōchos, which denotes someone who is truly destitute, often a beggar, utterly dependent on others for survival. This is a strong term, emphasizing the deep need of those the apostles were concerned about. The phrase "remember the poor" (tōn ptōchōn mē mnēmoneuōmen) indicates a continuous obligation to keep their plight in mind and act upon it.

Practical Application

For believers today, Galatians 2:10 serves as a timeless reminder that authentic faith is never divorced from compassion and practical action. While salvation is by grace through faith alone, this saving faith naturally produces good works, including caring for those in need. The early church, despite its theological debates and missionary strategies, maintained a consistent focus on social responsibility and charity. This verse encourages Christians to actively participate in ministries of mercy, giving generously, and advocating for the vulnerable in society, demonstrating the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 24:17

    Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.

  • Hebrews 13:16

    But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

  • 1 John 3:17

    But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

  • 2 Corinthians 8:1

    ¶ Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9

    For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

  • Acts 11:29

    Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:

  • Acts 11:30

    Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

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