Galatians 4:12

Paul’s Concern for the Galatians · Galatians 4:8–20
Read Galatians 4

Translations

Modern
I beg you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you. You have done me no wrong.
Traditional
Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.
Literal
I implore you, brothers, become as I am, because I also am as you. You wronged me in nothing.
Latin
Estote sicut ego, quia et ego sicut vos: fratres, obsecro vos. Nihil me læsistis.

Original

Greek
English
I beg you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you. You have done me no wrong.

Notes

  • become like me: Paul was a devoted Jew. He stopped trying to earn righteousness and accepted God's free grace in Jesus Christ. Now, Paul asks these Gentiles to follow his example instead of adopting the Jewish practices he left behind. Paul's advice throughout the rest of the letter (4:12–6:10) comes from this single command.

  • You have done me no wrong: Similarly, the Galatians should not mistreat Paul now but should continue to warmly accept his ministry and message.

After explaining what the Bible teaches, Paul takes a more personal approach. He reminds the Galatians of their close relationship with him.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul)

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Faith Letter to the Galatians Peter, Second Letter of

Topics

Love: Exemplification of the Love of Man for Man