4/30/20
Jerome, Commentary on Galatians, [J.P. Migne, Editor]. Patrologiae Tomus XXVI. Paris: D’Ambroise, Pres La Barriere D’Enfer, ou Petit-Montrouge, 1845. pp. 307-438.
Galatians 6:6 speaks to the need to pass on good teaching, from those who have been taught to others. Jerome observes that Marcion ignores the statement of Paul that the teaching is “in all good things.” The implication here is that Marcion, and presumably others, simply approve teaching even if it is not accurate. This, Jerome observes, results in a harvest of false teaching (Jerome, Galatians, 429). As we would all prefer to receive a good harvest from our actions and teachings, we do well to pursue good teaching. Paul goes on to remind us, in verse seven, that we reap what we sow (Jerome, Galatians, 430). God does know the teaching and priorities of his people and will never be deceived. For this reason, it is important (v. 8) to “sow” in the Spirit rather than the flesh.
While some of the ascetics of Jerome’s time would take Galatians 6:8 to urge shunning of the pleasures of the flesh, including marriage, Jerome observes that Paul speaks of receiving the harvest in one’s own flesh. Jerome understands this idea to defeat the ascetic view (Jerome, Galatians, 431). Rather, we can carry on all the normal activities of life without being unspiritual. The conclusion given by Paul in verses 9-10 is that we should busy ourselves in doing good. This imitates God, and certainly is done in faith. Jerome sees no conflict between living a spiritual life and doing good works (Jerome, Galatians, 433).