Burdens
What does it mean to “bear one another’s burdens” in Galatians 6:1-5?
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2 (LSB)
As believers, we are to help others bear their burdens1 (v.2). Outside of this community of fellow believers, it is only natural that we will get caught by sin (v.1). By helping others in their burdens and difficulties, we fulfill the law of Christ: to love one another (see John 13:14-15, 34; 15:12; James 2:8; 1 John 4:21).
Restoration of a fallen brother must take place with an attitude of humility. This is especially true because we are nothing, even when the human norm is to think we are something special (v. 3). Instead, we should be regularly examining ourselves, especially our actions (v. 1); actions that ought to be fruit of the Spirit’s work in our hearts (5:22-25).
This examination can provide a reason for us to be satisfied in the Spirit-empowered works of sanctification (v. 4). This sanctification ought to be directed to our own growth, not bound to the growth or potential lack of growth of others (vv. 4-5). This work of sanctification is a load2 we must carry ourselves (v. 5). No one can do the work of sanctification for you, and you cannot do the work of sanctification for anyone else.
We each carry the burden/load of our own sanctification. Too often we look to others to do the work of sanctification for us. Sometimes, we search for a list of specific things we must do, say, or be in order to grow. Unfortunately, we often cling to extrabiblical expectations as though they can accomplish the work of sanctification for us.
While we must carry our own loads, we are also called to assist others in bearing the hardships of life. Life is rarely easy, and it comes with many concerns and difficulties. As believers, we must seek to humbly come alongside one another and help others as they walk through life. Hardships in life can often result in a fall into sin. We are called to restore those who have fallen and assist those who are still walking in the bearing of life’s burdens.
This week, rejoice in the growth that the Spirit is accomplishing in you. As you are able, seek to encourage and help those around you, especially those who have fallen into sin or are struggling under the weight of life.
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Soli Deo Gloria,
Caleb Friske
The Greek word (baros) in verse 2 can be translated burden or weight. Here, it refers to an onerous or difficult concern (LXGNTLEX). It is a hardship which is regarded as particularly burdensome and exhausting (Louw-Nida).
Although it can be translated using the English word burden (which is the word used in this verse in the KJV), the use of the Greek word (phortion) here refers to a load, particularly a non-physical burden, understood as a specific quantity for transport at one time; perhaps emphasizing the specific size or individuality of the burdens (LXGNTLEX). It is used here and elsewhere to refer to a relatively heavy object which is carried (Louw-Nida).