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Galatians 6:14

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

Galatians 6:14 · King James Version

Meaning

Paul's words in this verse from Galatians emphasize the central importance of the cross of Jesus Christ in the life of a believer. By declaring that he would only boast in the cross, Paul is acknowledging that the significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross far surpasses any personal achievements or earthly accolades. The cross represents the ultimate act of love and redemption, where Jesus gave His life to save humanity from sin and death. By glorying in the cross, Paul is also emphasizing his complete separation from the values and priorities of the world. The world, with its temptations and distractions, holds no power over him because his identity and purpose are found in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians to keep their focus on the cross and to live in a way that reflects the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, the apostle Paul emphasizes the central importance of the cross of Jesus Christ in his life and teachings. The phrase "save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" highlights Paul's conviction that in Christ's sacrificial death on the cross, salvation is found. Through the cross, believers are reconciled to God and freed from the power of sin and the world. The phrase "by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world" underscores the transformative effect of the cross on the believer. By embracing the message of the cross, Paul experiences a radical change in perspective, causing him to view the values and pursuits of the world as crucified and dead to him. In turn, Paul recognizes that he has also been crucified to the world, symbolizing his disconnection from earthly desires and attachments. This verse serves as a powerful reminder for believers to place their ultimate trust and hope in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross, finding their identity and purpose solely in Him.

Galatians 6:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

But far be it from me to glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world hath been crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

World English Bible

But far be it from me to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

Douay-Rheims

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But God forbid that I should reioyce, but in ye crosse of our Lord Iesus Christ, whereby the world is crucified vnto me, and I vnto ye world.