Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

GALATIANS 1:20KJV
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Galatians 1:20 (KJV)

What does Galatians 1:20 mean?

Galatians 1:20 is Paul’s strong assurance to his readers that everything he is writing to them is true, and that he is not lying, with God as his witness. Paul wants the Galatians to know that his account is honest and trustworthy, especially about how he received the gospel.

Paul is writing to the churches in Galatia, defending his message and authority as an apostle. Some people had questioned whether Paul’s story or teachings could be trusted. Here, Paul pauses to make a solemn declaration, almost like swearing an oath, to show that he is being completely truthful about his experiences and what he has shared so far.

The Greek behind Galatians 1:20

  • ἰδοὺ (idou, “behold”): This word draws special attention, almost like saying “look!” or “pay close attention.” Paul uses it to highlight the seriousness of his statement.
  • ἐνώπιον (enōpion, “before”): This word means “in the presence of,” and in this context, it emphasizes that Paul is making his claim with God as his direct witness.
  • ψεύδομαι (pseudomai, “lie”): This verb means “to lie” or “to speak falsely.” Paul’s use of it, combined with the negative οὐ (ou, “not”), is a strong denial of any falsehood.

Why Galatians 1:20 matters

  • This verse clears up any suspicion that Paul might be exaggerating or inventing parts of his story; he is making it clear that he is telling the truth.
  • Paul’s emphasis on God as his witness shows how seriously he takes honesty, especially when it comes to spiritual matters.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by underlining the authenticity of Paul’s gospel message, which he insists came directly from Jesus Christ and not from human sources.

Where else these words appear

“lie” Greek G5574 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 5:11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
  • Romans 9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
  • Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

“before” Greek G1799 · used in 89 verses

  • Luke 1:6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
  • Acts 10:4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.
  • Revelation 2:14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.