Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

GALATIANS 5:7KJV
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Galatians 5:7 (KJV)

What does Galatians 5:7 mean?

Galatians 5:7 describes how the believers in Galatia had been doing well in following the Christian message, but someone or something had come along and gotten in their way, causing them to stop obeying the truth. Paul is asking who or what has interfered with their progress in living out what they know to be right.

Paul is writing to the churches in Galatia, addressing people who started out strong in their faith but have recently been influenced by others to turn away from the core message he taught them. The verse uses the image of running a race well, then suddenly being blocked or tripped up, to show how their spiritual journey has been disrupted.

The Greek behind Galatians 5:7

  • "run" (τρέχω, trechō): This word paints the picture of someone actively and energetically moving forward, like a runner in a race. Paul often uses athletic imagery to describe spiritual progress.
  • "hinder" (ἀνακόπτω, anakoptō): This word means to cut in, block, or impede someone’s movement. It suggests that the Galatians’ progress was not just slowed but actively interrupted by an outside force.
  • "truth" (ἀλήθεια, alētheia): In this context, "truth" refers to the genuine message of the gospel Paul preached, not just general honesty. The issue is about staying true to the original teaching, not being sidetracked by new ideas.

Why Galatians 5:7 matters

  • Galatians 5:7 clears up that spiritual setbacks can come from outside influences, not just personal failure, highlighting the importance of being aware of who or what is shaping your beliefs.
  • The verse emphasizes that following the truth is an ongoing journey, not a one-time decision, and that even those who start strong can be led astray.
  • In the wider passage, this verse sets up Paul’s argument against those who were trying to convince the Galatians to adopt practices he believes are not part of the true gospel, making it clear that the problem is interference, not a lack of initial sincerity.

Where else these words appear

“hinder” Greek G1465 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 24:4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.
  • Romans 15:22 For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

“run” Greek G5143 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 27:48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.
  • Luke 24:12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

“well” Greek G2573 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 20:39 Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.
  • Galatians 4:17 They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.

“should” Greek G3982 · used in 55 verses

  • Matthew 27:20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
  • Acts 21:14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
  • Galatians 5:10 I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.