6:16 6:16

Galatians 6:17

6:18 6:18

Bible Versions

From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.
From henceforth {G3064} let {G3930} no man {G3367} trouble {G3930} me {G2873}{G3427}: for {G1063} I {G1473} bear {G941} in {G1722} my {G3450} body {G4983} the marks {G4742} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.
From now on, I don’t want anyone to give me any more tsuris, because I have scars on my body to prove that I belong to Yeshua!
From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear branded on my body the marks of Jesus.

Commentary on Galatians 6:17 KJV

Galatians 6:17 declares Paul's final, emphatic statement in his letter to the Galatians: "From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus." This verse serves as a powerful conclusion to his defense of the true Gospel of grace.

Context

This verse comes at the very end of Paul's epistle to the Galatians, a letter fiercely defending the doctrine of justification by faith alone, apart from the works of the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision. Paul has spent the entire letter confronting false teachers, known as Judaizers, who insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and adhere to Jewish customs to be truly saved. Having just pronounced a blessing on those who walk according to the rule of the new creation (Galatians 6:16), Paul now asserts his apostolic authority and integrity, effectively telling his detractors to cease their accusations and challenges against his ministry and message.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority and Authenticity: Paul uses his personal suffering as irrefutable proof of his genuine apostleship and the truth of the Gospel he preaches. His physical scars serve as credentials far superior to any ceremonial mark like circumcision.
  • Suffering for Christ: The "marks" are direct evidence of the persecution and physical hardship Paul endured for the sake of the Gospel. This theme highlights that true discipleship often involves sharing in Christ's sufferings.
  • Freedom from Legalism: Paul's declaration is a final dismissal of the legalistic demands of the Judaizers. He implies that his suffering for the Gospel is a greater testament to his faithfulness than any adherence to rituals they might propose.
  • Identification with Christ: The "marks" signify a profound identification with Jesus, particularly with His suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection. Paul's body literally bore the physical cost of following Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The key word in this verse is "marks," translated from the Greek word stigmata (στίγματα). In the ancient world, stigmata referred to brand marks or tattoos used for various purposes:

  • Slaves: Branded by their owners to denote possession.
  • Soldiers: Marked to signify their allegiance and loyalty to their commander.
  • Temple Devotees: Sometimes marked to indicate their dedication to a particular deity.

Paul's use of stigmata here powerfully conveys that his scars and physical ailments, incurred through beatings, stonings, and other persecutions (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-27), are not marks of shame but rather glorious badges of honor. They are proof that he is owned by Christ, a loyal soldier of Christ, and completely devoted to the Lord Jesus. These marks validate his message and his ministry, silencing any doubts about his authority or sincerity.

Practical Application

For believers today, Galatians 6:17 reminds us:

  • The Cost of Discipleship: Following Christ may involve various forms of "marks"—not necessarily physical scars, but perhaps social ostracization, career setbacks, or personal sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel. These are our badges of identification with Jesus.
  • Authenticity Over Appearance: Our true spiritual credentials are not found in outward religious practices or human approval, but in our genuine commitment to Christ and the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, often evidenced by endurance through hardship.
  • Standing Firm in Truth: Like Paul, we should be resolute in defending the pure Gospel of grace against any attempts to burden believers with legalistic requirements or false teachings. Our experience with God and the transformation He brings should be our ultimate testimony.
  • Living for Christ's Approval: Paul sought no man's approval; his life and body bore the evidence of his devotion to Jesus. We are called to live similarly, seeking to please God above all else, knowing that our ultimate reward comes from Him.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:5

    For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

  • Colossians 1:24

    Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

  • 2 Corinthians 11:23

    Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I [am] more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:25

    Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;

  • 2 Corinthians 4:10

    Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

  • Galatians 5:11

    And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.

  • Galatians 5:12

    I would they were even cut off which trouble you.
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