Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Galatians 5:8-10

"This persuasion [came] not of him that calleth you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. I have confidence to you-ward in the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be." — Galatians 5:8-10 (ASV)

But what should be said regarding the false teacher(s)? Much indeed. In three succinct statements Paul traces the origin, results, and end of such doctrine.

(1) (Verse 8) Somewhat understating the case, Paul says that the origin of the doctrine of salvation by works does not lie in “the one who calls you” (i.e., God; cf. 1:6). Rather, it proceeds from that which is hostile to God’s grace. Though Paul does not say that it originates with Satan, that may well be the case.

(2) (Verse 9) As the present results of such teaching, Paul asserts that it spreads. It is permeating, insidious, and therefore dangerous. No doubt Paul is quoting a proverb at this point (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:6). False teaching, like yeast, grows and affects everything it touches. Therefore, this alone would justify Paul’s alarm at the state of affairs in the Galatian churches.

(3) (Verse 10) Even though evil spreads, God will not permit it to triumph ultimately. In fact, its end is the opposite. Paul concludes with an optimistic expression of his confidence that the Galatians will return to a right mind and that the false teacher(s) will suffer God’s judgment. What does “no other view” refer to? Does it mean “no other view” than the true Gospel? Than their first opinions formed as the result of Paul’s teaching? Or than what Paul has just said regarding the origin and danger of the legalizers’ teaching? The answer is not given. Any of the three is possible, and indeed Paul may have all of them in mind.