Galatians 6:10

New Testament Epistle (Pauline) ASV (1901)

What does Galatians 6:10 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.
Galatians 6:10 — American Standard Version

Context — Galatians 6

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
10So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“As we have therefore opportunity, etc..] Or “ability”, so the phrase is sometimes used f120; as occasion requires, objects offer, as there is ability of well doing, and that continues; while the time of life lasts, which is the time for sowing, or doing good works: let us do good unto all men; not only to our relations, friends, and acquaintance, but to all men; to them that are strangers to us, of whatsoever nation, Jew or Gentile; and of whatsoever religion or sect, yea, even to our very enemies: especially unto them who are of the household of faith: the children of God, that belong to his family, are true believers in Christ, hold the doctrine of faith, make a profession of it, and keep…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Translate, "So then, according as (that is, in proportion as) we have season (that is, opportunity), let us work (a distinct Greek verb from that for "do," in Gal 6:9) that which is (in each case) good." As thou art able, and while thou art able, and when thou art able (Ecc 9:10). We have now the "season" for sowing, as also there will be hereafter the "due season" (Gal 6:9) for reaping. The whole life is, in one sense, the "seasonable opportunity" to us: and, in a narrower sense, there occur in it more especially convenient seasons. The latter are sometimes lost in looking for still more convenient seasons (Act 24:25). We shall not always have the opportunity "we have" now. Satan is…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men - This is the true rule about doing good. “The opportunity to do good,” said Cotton Mather, “imposes the obligation to do it.” The simple rule is, that we are favored with the opportunity, and that we have the power. It is not that we are to do it when it is convenient; or when it will advance the interest of a party; or when it may contribute to our fame; the rule is, that we are to do it when we have the opportunity. No matter how often that occurs; no matter how many objects of benevolence are presented - the more the better; no matter how much self-denial it may cost us; no matter how little fame we may get by it; still, if we…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“Therefore as we have opportunity - At whatever time or place, and in whatever manner we can. The opportunity in general is our lifetime; but there are also many particular opportunities. Satan is quickened in doing hurt, by the shortness of the time, Rev 12:12. By the same consideration let us be quickened in doing good. Let us do good - In every possible kind, and in every possible degree. Unto all men - Neighbours or strangers, good or evil, friends or enemies. But especially to them who are of the household of faith. For all believers are but one family. Galatians 6:11”
Read attributed excerpt →
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“6:10 Therefore: This statement forms an inclusio (bookends) for the section (5:13–6:10) by stating the same theme as 5:13: Freedom in the Spirit compels us to do good to others in love. • Doing good to those in the family of faith demonstrates God’s faithfulness to his children: He provides for all their needs.”
Read attributed excerpt →
Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“opportunity: Ecc 9:10; Joh 9:4, Joh 12:35; Eph 5:16; Phi 4:10; Col 4:5 \*Gr: Tit 2:14 do good: Psa 37:3, Psa 37:27; Ecc 3:12; Mat 5:43; Mar 3:4; Luk 6:35; Th1 5:15; Ti1 6:17, Ti1 6:18; Tit 3:8; Heb 13:16; Jo3 1:11 especially: Mat 10:25, Mat 12:50, Mat 25:40; Eph 2:19, Eph 3:15; Heb 3:6, Heb 6:10; Jo1 3:13-19; Jo1 5:1; Jo3 1:5-8 Galatians 6:11”
Read attributed excerpt →

Related study paths

Sources and verification