Galatians 4:12
Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.
Original Language Analysis
Γίνεσθε
be
G1096
Γίνεσθε
be
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
1 of 13
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ὡς
am as
G5613
ὡς
am as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
2 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ὅτι
am for
G3754
ὅτι
am for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
4 of 13
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
κἀγὼ
I
G2504
κἀγὼ
I
Strong's:
G2504
Word #:
5 of 13
so also the dative case ????? <pronunciation strongs="kam-oy'"/>, and accusative case ???? <pronunciation strongs="kam-eh'"/> and (or also, even, etc.
ὡς
am as
G5613
ὡς
am as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
6 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ἀδελφοί
Brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
Brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
8 of 13
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:5But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.1 Kings 22:4And he said unto Jehoshaphat, Wilt thou go with me to battle to Ramoth-gilead? And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, I am as thou art, my people as thy people, my horses as thy horses.Genesis 34:15But in this will we consent unto you: If ye will be as we be, that every male of you be circumcised;
Historical Context
Paul's flexibility regarding ceremonial law (1 Corinthians 9:19-23) demonstrated his freedom in Christ. To Jews he could observe Jewish customs (Acts 21:23-26); to Gentiles he lived free from such obligations. This wasn't compromise but principled application: ceremonial law is indifferent for Christians, neither required nor forbidden. Paul's personal example validated his theology: he practiced the freedom he preached. The Galatians' drift suggested they doubted both his teaching and his lifestyle. He reassures them he lives what he teaches.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond to spiritual leaders who combine firm correction with tender affection and personal identification?
- In what areas of Christian liberty do you impose unnecessary restrictions on yourself or others?
- Does your life validate your theology, or is there disconnect between what you profess and how you live?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. Paul's tender appeal despite rebuke. "Brethren" (adelphoi, ἀδελφοί)—he still considers them family. "I beseech you" (deomai hymōn)—I beg you, I earnestly request. The tone shifts from doctrinal argument to personal plea. "Be as I am" (ginesthe hōs egō)—imitate my example. Paul, born a Jew, had renounced law-keeping as grounds for righteousness (Philippians 3:4-9). He lived as though he were a Gentile regarding ceremonial law (eating with Gentiles, not insisting on circumcision).
"For I am as ye are" (hoti kagō hōs hymeis)—I became like you (Gentiles). Paul identifies with them. "Ye have not injured me at all" (ouden me ēdikēsate)—his concern isn't personal offense but their spiritual welfare. They hadn't wronged him personally, but they were harming themselves spiritually by abandoning the gospel. This combination of firm doctrinal rebuke with personal affection and identification is model pastoral ministry.