Bear One Another’s Burdens

My friends,^a if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. ^2 Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill^b the law of Christ. ^3 For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. ^4 All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. ^5 For all must carry their own loads.

^6 Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher.

^7 Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. ^8 If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. ^9 So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. ^10 So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.

Final Admonitions and Benediction

^11 See what large letters I make when I am writing in my own hand! ^12 It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that try to compel you to be circumcised—only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. ^13 Even the circumcised do not themselves obey the law, but they want you to be circumcised so that they may boast about your flesh. ^14 May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which^c the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. ^15 For^d neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything! ^16 As for those who will follow this rule—peace be upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

^17 From now on, let no one make trouble for me; for I carry the marks of Jesus branded on my body.

^18 May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters.^e Amen.