As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

GALATIANS 6:10KJV
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Galatians 6:10 (KJV)

What does Galatians 6:10 mean?

Galatians 6:10 encourages believers to do good to everyone whenever they have the chance, with special attention given to helping fellow Christians. The verse highlights the importance of kindness and generosity, especially toward those who share the same faith.

Paul is writing to the churches in Galatia, wrapping up his letter with practical advice about living out faith in everyday actions. The verse comes in a section where Paul urges believers to support one another and to live by the Spirit, making clear that faith should lead to visible acts of goodness, particularly within the Christian community.

The Greek behind Galatians 6:10

  • καιρός (kairos, G2540): This word is translated as "opportunity" and refers to a specific, favorable moment or season rather than just any time. Paul is urging readers to recognize and make use of the right moments to do good.
  • οἰκεῖος (oikeios, G3609): Translated as "household," this word means those who belong to the same family or household. Here, Paul uses it to describe fellow believers as a spiritual family, emphasizing a special responsibility toward them.
  • πίστις (pistis, G4102): This is the word for "faith." Paul connects the idea of family not just to blood relations but to those united by shared trust in Christ, underlining the spiritual bond among Christians.

Why Galatians 6:10 matters

  • Galatians 6:10 clarifies that Christian kindness is not limited to other believers but extends to all people, correcting any narrow or exclusive mindset.
  • The verse highlights that while general goodwill is important, there is a particular obligation to care for those within the faith community, reflecting the close-knit nature of early Christian groups.
  • In the broader context of Galatians, this verse ties together themes of faith, practical action, and community, showing that belief in Christ should result in tangible acts of love and service.

Where else these words appear

“household” Greek G3609 · used in 3 verses

  • Ephesians 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
  • 1 Timothy 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

“especially” Greek G3122 · used in 12 verses

  • Acts 20:38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
  • Philippians 4:22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.
  • 2 Timothy 4:13 The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.

“do” Greek G2038 · used in 37 verses

  • Matthew 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
  • Acts 10:35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
  • Colossians 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

“therefore” Greek G686 · used in 51 verses

  • Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
  • Acts 8:22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.