Galatians 5:13

Authorized King James Version

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ὑμεῖς

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἐπ'

G1909

unto

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

ἐλευθερίαν

G1657

liberty

freedom (legitimate or licentious, chiefly moral or ceremonial)

ἐκλήθητε

G2564

have been called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

ἀδελφοί·

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

μόνον

G3440

only

merely

μὴ

G3361

use not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

ἐλευθερίαν

G1657

liberty

freedom (legitimate or licentious, chiefly moral or ceremonial)

#11

εἰς

G1519

for

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#12

ἀφορμὴν

G874

an occasion

a starting-point, i.e., (figuratively) an opportunity

#13

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#14

σαρκί

G4561

to the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

#15

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#16

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#17

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#18

ἀγάπης

G26

love

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

#19

δουλεύετε

G1398

serve

to be a slave to (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary)

#20

ἀλλήλοις

G240

one another

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood love. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Galatians chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?