Galatians 6:14-18

But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

(v14, ESV)

These false teachers are teaching circumcision. They boast in the flesh and the flesh of others. Paul has just discussed the Spirit and the flesh. We are to live by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. If we aren't supposed to gratify the desires of the flesh, why then would it be right for us to boast in the flesh? Their boasting is misdrected and this is what Paul first addresses. Paul wants to make it very clear that he will not boast. The exception is boasting in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is all that is worth boasting about.

Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."

(1 Corinthians 1:31, ESV)

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

(2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)

These are a few exceptions to boasting. Paul himself quotes that we are to boast in the Lord if we even to boast at all. In addition, we should boast in our weakness.

The second part of this verse is a bit confusing. How is the world crucified to me and I to the world? This crucifying is happening by the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus was crucified on the cross for our sins. When people boast in this as Paul did, they will be persecuted.

But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed.

(Galatians 5:11, ESV)

Paul was making a point that he was being persecuted for his stance on circumcision. However, some of them may have argued that he was in fact teaching circumcision instead of against it. Teaching against circumcision will bring upon persecution. Teaching against the common idea that salvation is attained by works or following the law brings persecution. Paul is teaching the truth and thus his act of standing for the truth results in persecution. Boasting in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ creates conflict, and separation with the world. There is pain and trouble between us and the world. However, we must do it because it's the truth and it's what God teaches and instructs us.

For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.

(v15, ESV)

These false teachers were trying to get other people to get circumcised as a means to attain salvation. But here Paul says that it doesn't really matter whether you're circumcised or not. What matters is that you're a new creation in Christ Jesus.

And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.

(v16, ESV)

Paul wishes for peace and mercy to those who live by this rule. Though we may be persecuted, and though we may encounter storms, I believe we can be at peace with our God. It doesn't mean it won't be tough, but God is just so good.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

(Romans 8:28-29, NIV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)

God is so good.

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

(v17, ESV)

Paul makes a statement directly in response to those who oppose him. They have been concerned with the mark of circumcision; however, Paul draws attention to the marks he received by being a servant of Christ Jesus. He had received scars and other bodily pains as a result of his unswerving devotion and loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.

(v18, ESV)

Paul ends with this last bit of summing it all up. We are to live by the Spirit and not by gratifying the desires of the flesh. Through our living by the Spirit and bearing the fruit of the Spirit, we prove ourselves to be true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Bearing fruit and living by the Spirit allow us into the family of believers to live and call one another brother and sister.