John Bengel Commentary - Galatians 5:17 - 5:17

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John Bengel Commentary - Galatians 5:17 - 5:17


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Gal 5:17. Τὸ δὲ πνεῦμα) and, on the other hand, the Spirit against the flesh. The word ἐπιθυμεῖ itself, or, inasmuch as that word is taken in a bad sense, another analogous to it [not lusteth, but desireth, tendeth] is to be supplied. There is certainly an elegance in the ellipsis or zeugma [use of ἐπιθυμεῖ in the double sense].-ἀντίκειται, are contrary) ἀντιπραγίᾳ, in a mutual serious contest.-ἃ ἂν, whatsoever) Carnal men do whatsoever they will; although sometimes the flesh wars with the flesh. In regard to those who repent, their condition is different, and that too a wonderful condition; for the Spirit strives against the flesh, and its bad course of action: the flesh against the Spirit, and its good course of action; so that (ἵνα) neither the one nor the other can be fully carried out. In such a state, as being doubtful, many bad and many good actions are prevented; but where the Spirit conquers, Gal 5:18, the issue of the conflict is decided. This more summary statement in some measure corresponds to those things, which are fully explained, Rom 7:14, etc.; although, in the present case, the state presupposed is rather one already spiritual.