Commentary on Galatians 2:20

Verse: "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20, ESV)

Overall Context

In the book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of justification by faith versus justification by works of the Law. This letter emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel and the believer's union with Christ. In this specific verse, Paul encapsulates the essence of the Christian experience and the profound reality of being united with Christ in His death and resurrection.

Exegesis of Galatians 2:20

1. "I have been crucified with Christ"

This phrase signifies the believer's identification with Christ in His death. Matthew Henry explains that being "crucified with Christ" denotes a complete surrender of self and a break from the power of sin. Paul does not merely speak of the event of crucifixion but rather describes the believer's spiritual state of being one with Christ in His redemptive work.

2. "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me"

Here, Paul articulates the transformative effect of faith in Christ. Albert Barnes points out that this verse depicts a radical shift in identity. The believer's life is not characterized by self-effort but by the indwelling presence of Christ. This new life expresses itself through love, obedience, and joy, instigating a new purpose that is wholly reliant on Christ.

3. "The life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God"

The term "flesh" references the believer's earthly existence. Adam Clarke emphasizes that although believers inhabit human bodies, they live a life empowered by faith, not by the flesh's desires. This faith is a direct trust in the Son of God, referring to an ongoing reliance on Christ for every aspect of life and service.

4. "Who loved me and gave himself for me"

This portion of the verse highlights the profound nature of Christ's sacrifice. Matthew Henry elaborates that Christ's love for Paul—and by extension, every believer—is personal and sacrificial. This assertion reinforces the security of the believer's identity in Christ, grounded in love and the ultimate act of redemption on the cross.

Theological Implications

Galatians 2:20 serves as a theological cornerstone concerning the believer's identity in Christ. The concepts of justification and sanctification are closely tied to this verse, offering a comprehensive view of salvation. Each part of the verse presents key insights for theological reflection:

• Union with Christ: The believer's union with Christ is foundational to understanding salvation. The crucifixion signifies the breaking of the bondage of sin, while resurrection gives the believer new life.
• Identity Transformation: The phrase "it is no longer I who live" speaks to the radical change that salvation brings, altering not only one's relationship to sin but also to God and oneself.
• Faith as a Way of Life: Living by faith is not merely an act of belief but encapsulates the entire Christian walk. It is about complete dependence on Christ and His work.
• Christ's Love and Sacrifice: The personal nature of Christ's love is integral to the believer's assurance of salvation and ongoing relationship with God.

Practical Applications

Drawing from this rich verse, several practical applications emerge for pastors, educators, and students of theology:

• Identity in Christ: Believers should seek to understand their identity in Christ, leading to a deeper sense of security and purpose in life.
• Living by Faith: Encourage a lifestyle of dependence on Christ that affects all areas of life, promoting faith that manifests in love and good works.
• Teaching on Sacrifice: Emphasize Christ's sacrificial love in preaching and teaching, highlighting how it compels believers to live selflessly.
• Support for Spiritual Growth: Create environments in church where believers can grow in their knowledge of Christ's work and their response of faith.

Conclusion

Galatians 2:20 is a profound summary of the Christian life as described by Paul. Through the lens of Christ’s crucifixion, the believer experiences a new identity, empowered by faith and engulfed in love. As believers internalize this truth, they are equipped to live out their lives not as individuals seeking their own agenda but as instruments of Christ’s purpose, embodying the transformative power of the Gospel in every facet of their existence.