Chapter V
25 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the
dead, and are alive to God, by the operation of his Spirit. Let us walk
by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance, in all our tempers, thoughts,
words, and actions.
26 Be not desirous of vain glory - Of the praise or esteem of
men. They who do not carefully and closely follow the Spirit, easily slide
into this: the natural effects of which are, provoking to envy them that
are beneath us, and envying them that are above us.
Chapter VI
1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in any fault - By surprise,
ignorance, or stress of temptation. Ye who are spiritual - Who continue
to live and walk by the Spirit. Restore such an one - By reproof, instruction,
or exhortation. Every one who can, ought to help herein; only in the spirit
of meekness - This is essential to a spiritual man; and in this lies the
whole force of the cure. Considering thyself - The plural is beautifully
changed into the singular. Let each take heed to himself. Lest thou also
be tempted - Temptation easily and swiftly passes from one to another;
especially if a man endeavours to cure another without preserving his own
meekness.
2 Bear ye one another's burdens - Sympathize with, and assist,
each other, in all your weaknesses, grievances, trials. And so fulfil the
law of Christ - The law of Christ (an uncommon expression) is the law of
love: this our Lord peculiarly recommends; this he makes the distinguishing
mark of his disciples.
3 If any one think himself to be something - Above his brethren,
or by any strength of his own. When he is nothing, he deceiveth himself
- He alone will bear their burdens, who knows himself to be nothing.
4 But let every man try his own work - Narrowly examine all he
is, and all he doeth. And then he shall have rejoicing in himself - He
will find in himself matter of rejoicing, if his works are right before
God. And not in another - Not in glorying over others.
5 For every one shall bear his own burden - ln that day shall
give an account of himself to God.
