John Bengel Commentary - Galatians 2:14 - 2:14

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John Bengel Commentary - Galatians 2:14 - 2:14


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Gal 2:14. Ἐ͂ιδον, I saw) A happy observation [of their error].-ὀρθοποδοῦσι) they walk [with a straightforward and open step] according to the rule, Gal 6:16; in the right way, or rather with body erect [as Engl. Vers. translates it uprightly], so that it is opposed to lameness, and to what is properly called straddling. Straightness of the feet is the thing intended. The Greeks say also ὀρθοβατεῖν, ὀρθοδραμεῖν.-τοῦ εὐαγγελίου, of the Gospel) For the Gospel teaches, that righteousness from the works of the law and the necessity for observance of the ceremonial law are inconsistent with redemption by the death of Christ.-εἶπον, I said) Paul alone maintained the point in this place, without associates [to support him], against Judaism; afterwards also against heathenism, 2Ti 4:16-17.-τῷ) The authors of this conduct ought to be attacked.-ἔμπροσθεν πάντων, before all) 1Ti 5:20.-εἰ σὺ, if thou) In this argument Paul reminds Peter of the argument which the latter had used against the Pharisees, Act 15:10-11. Here commences a proposition consisting of two members, of which the first, if thou, etc., is treated of in Gal 2:15-16; the second, why-the Gentiles, etc., at Gal 2:17-18.-Ἰουδαῖος ὑπάρχων, being a Jew) and therefore more closely related to the law.-ἐθνικῶς ζῇς, livest after the manner of Gentiles) So Paul speaks, κατʼ ἄνθρωπον, i.e. [using the ad hominem argument, turning Peter’s own practice as an argument against him] For Peter, retracting his former mode of living, declared for the Gentile mode, since it was right in itself. Taking away this figure, the proposition itself, we must not live after the manner of the Jews, is presently discussed.-τὰ ἔθνη, the Gentiles) set free from the law.-ἀναγκάζεις, thou compellest) by thy conduct. They would have held it necessary that the Gentiles should either follow the Jewish ritual, or be deprived of communion with the Church.-Ἰουδαΐζειν, to live as do the Jews [Judaize]) what had been formerly obedience to the law is now mere Judaism.