A.T. Robertson Commentary Galatians 5

With freedom (τη ελευθερια). Rather dative case instead of instrumental, "for freedom," "for the (article) freedom that belongs to us children of the freewoman" (4:31).

Did Christ set us free (ημας Χριστος ηλευθερωσεν). Effective aorist active indicative of ελευθεροω (from ερχομα, to go, go free).

Stand fast therefore (στηκετε ουν). See on Mr 3:31; 1 Corinthians 16:13 for this late word from perfect stem of ιστημ, "keep on standing therefore," "stay free since Christ set you free."

Be not entangled again (μη παλιν ενεχεσθε). "Stop being held in by a yoke of bondage." Common word for ensnare by trap. The Judaizers were trying to lasso the Galatians for the old yoke of Judaism.

I Paul (εγω Παυλος). Asserts all his personal and apostolic authority. For both words see also 1 Thessalonians 2:16; 2 Corinthians 10:1; Colossians 1:23; Ephesians 3:1.

If ye receive circumcision (εαν περιτεμνησθε). Condition of third class and present passive subjunctive, a supposable case, but with terrible consequences, for they will make circumcision a condition of salvation. In that case Christ will help them not at all.

A debtor (οφειλετης). Common word from οφειλω, to owe for one who has assumed an obligation. See on Mt 6:12. See Ga 3:10. He takes the curse on himself.

Ye are severed from Christ (κατηργηθητε απο Χριστου). First aorist passive of καταργεω, to make null and void as in Ro 7:2,6.

Who would be justified by the law (οιτινες εν νομω δικαιουσθε). Present passive conative indicative, "ye who are trying to be justified in the law."

Ye are fallen away from grace (της χαριτος εξεπεσατε). Second aorist active indicative of εκπιπτω (with α variable vowel of the first aorist) and followed by the ablative case. "Ye did fall out of grace," "ye left the sphere of grace in Christ and took your stand in the sphere of law" as your hope of salvation. Paul does not mince words and carries the logic to the end of the course. He is not, of course, speaking of occasional sins, but he has in mind a far more serious matter, that of substituting law for Christ as the agent in salvation.

For we (ημεις γαρ). We Christians as opposed to the legalists.

Through the Spirit by faith (πνευματ εκ πιστεως). By the Spirit (Holy Spirit) out of faith (not law). Clear-cut repetition to make it plain.