Galatians 6:3
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
δοκεῖ
think himself
G1380
δοκεῖ
think himself
Strong's:
G1380
Word #:
3 of 10
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
Cross References
Proverbs 26:12Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.1 Corinthians 3:18Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.1 Corinthians 8:2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.Romans 12:3For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.1 Corinthians 13:2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.2 Corinthians 3:5Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;Luke 18:11The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.Proverbs 25:14Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.1 John 1:8If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.Romans 12:16Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
Historical Context
Self-importance plagued the Galatian churches, as evidenced by provoking and envying (5:26). The Judaizers apparently promoted spiritual elitism: those who kept the law were superior to mere faith-believers. Paul demolishes this: all are nothing apart from grace. Jesus taught the same (Luke 17:10, John 15:5). This isn't destructive self-hatred but realistic self-assessment: we're sinners saved by grace, possessing nothing we didn't receive, achieving nothing apart from God's empowerment. This truth simultaneously humbles and liberates.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas do you think yourself 'something'—superior, important, accomplished—when you're actually nothing apart from God's grace?
- How does recognizing that you're 'nothing' liberate you for joyful service rather than crushing your spirit?
- What role does self-deception play in maintaining pride, and how do you break through it with truth?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Paul warns against pride. "For if a man think himself to be something" (ei gar dokei tis einai ti, εἰ γάρ δοκεῖ τις εἶναί τι)—if anyone supposes himself to be something, someone important or superior. Dokeō (δοκέω) means to think, suppose, imagine. "When he is nothing" (mēden ōn, μηδὲν ὤν)—being nothing. This is stark: apart from God's grace, we're nothing, possess nothing, have accomplished nothing of spiritual value. All we have is gift (1 Corinthians 4:7).
"He deceiveth himself" (phrenapata heauton, φρεναπατᾷ ἑαυτόν)—he deceives, deludes his own mind. Phrenapatao is compound: phrēn (mind) + apatao (deceive). Self-deception is most dangerous because the deceiver and deceived are one—no external voice can easily break through. Pride prevents burden-bearing (verse 2): the self-important won't stoop to serve. Pride also prevents restoration (verse 1): the self-righteous harshly judge rather than gently restore. Humility recognizes: "I am nothing apart from grace; therefore I can bear burdens and restore gently."