Galatians 4:19

Galatians 4:19 Meaning and Explanation

My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

King James Version (KJV)

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Paul calls them his little children, for whom he again suffers labor pains until Christ is formed in them.

What Does Galatians 4:19 Mean?

Paul's love overflows in a striking image. He calls them his little children and likens his concern to the pains of childbirth. He is in labor for them a second time, agonizing over their spiritual life as a mother agonizes to bring forth a child.

And his aim is nothing less than that Christ be formed in them — that the life and likeness of Jesus take full shape within. This is the goal of all his striving: not merely correct belief, but Christ himself living and growing in his people. For that, Paul will gladly suffer.

Galatians 4:19 in the Original Language

morphoo (μορφόω), 'be formed' -- to take shape, to be fully formed within.

Frequently Asked Questions About Galatians 4:19

What does Galatians 4:19 mean?

Paul calls them his little children, for whom he again suffers labor pains until Christ is formed in them.

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