Galatians 6:12 Meaning and Explanation
“As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The agitators push circumcision to make a good outward showing and to avoid persecution for the cross.
What Does Galatians 6:12 Mean?
Paul finally lays bare the agitators' motives. They desire to make a fair shew in the flesh — to put on an impressive outward display and win approval by it. Their religion is for appearance, a performance staged before others rather than a matter of the heart.
And beneath the show lies fear. They constrain you to be circumcised only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. By keeping the old marks they hope to escape the hostility that the offensive message of the cross provokes. Their real aim is not the Galatians' good but their own comfort and reputation. Paul exposes a religion driven by self-protection, the very opposite of the cross they wish to avoid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Galatians 6:12
What does Galatians 6:12 mean?
The agitators push circumcision to make a good outward showing and to avoid persecution for the cross.