Galatians 4:8-20

Holman Christian Standard Bible

Paul’s Concern for the Galatians

⁸ But in the past, when you didn’t know God,^(A) you were enslaved to things^[a] that by nature are not gods. ⁹ But now, since you know God,^(B) or rather have become known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and bankrupt^(C) elemental forces?^(D) Do you want to be enslaved to them all over again? ¹⁰ You observe special days, months, seasons, and years.^{(E) 11} I am fearful for you, that perhaps my labor for you has been wasted.

¹² I beg you, brothers: Become like me, for I also became like you. You have not wronged me; ¹³ you know that previously I preached the gospel to you because of a physical illness. ¹⁴ You did not despise or reject me though my physical condition was a trial for you.^[b] On the contrary, you received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus Himself.

¹⁵ What happened to this sense of being blessed you had? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. ¹⁶ Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?^{(F) 17} They^[c] are enthusiastic about you, but not for any good. Instead, they want to isolate you so you will be enthusiastic about them. ¹⁸ Now it is always good to be enthusiastic about good—and not just when I am with you. ¹⁹ My children,^(G) I am again suffering labor pains^(H) for you until Christ is formed in you. ²⁰ I would like to be with you right now and change my tone of voice, because I don’t know what to do about you.