Fathers

Galatians 6

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Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden. Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

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What the Fathers say

Galatians 6:10

Eastern Fathers

Theophylact of Ohrid

Just as it is not always convenient to sow, so too with performing works of mercy, as both the virgins and Lazarus show. Therefore, while we have time in this life, let us do good—that is, kindness and mercy—not only to teachers, but also to Greeks and Jews. Of course, assistance should not be rendered to these latter in the same measure as to fellow believers, but greater generosity should be shown to the faithful. …

Commentary on Galatians ↗

Oecumenius

"as we have opportunity." For in this life, the opportunity is for work; there it is no longer. "let us do good to all people." Toward Jews, toward Greeks, and especially toward the faithful.

Commentary on Galatians ↗

Cyprian

And therefore, dearest brethren, whose fear is inclined towards God, and who having already despised and trampled under foot the world, have lifted up your mind to things heavenly and divine, let us with full faith, with devoted mind, with continual labour, give our obedience, to deserve well of the Lord. Let us give to Christ earthly garments, that we may receive heavenly raiment; let us give food and drink of this world, that we may come with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob to the heavenly banquet. …

Treatise VIII. On Works and Alms. ↗

Western Saints

Jerome

Therefore, while we have time, let us do good to all, especially to those who belong to the family of faith. It is the time of sowing, as we have said, the present time, and the lifespan we are running. In this life, we are allowed to sow what we desire; when this life passes, the time for action is taken away. Thus, the Savior says: Work while it is day; night is coming when no one can work (John 9:4). The word of God has risen for us, the true sun, and the beasts have returned to their dens. …

Commentary on Galatians ↗

Thomas Aquinas

Then when he says, "Whilst we have time, let us work good to all men," he advises everyone to minister, saying: Since we shall reap, not failing, then "whilst we have time", i.e., in this life, which is the time for sowing: "I must work the works of him that sent me, whilst it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work" (Jn 9:4); "Whatsoever thy hand is able to do, do it earnestly; for neither work nor reason nor wisdom nor knowledge shall be in hell whither thou art hastening" (Sir 9:10). …

Commentary on Galatians ↗