Matthew Henry Commentary Galatians 6:16-18

"And as many as shall walk by this rule, peace [be] upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. Henceforth, let no man trouble me; for I bear branded on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen." — Galatians 6:16-18 (ASV)

A new creation in the image of Christ, demonstrating faith in him, is the greatest distinction between one person and another, and a blessing is declared on all who walk according to this rule. The blessings are peace and mercy. Peace with God and our conscience, and all the comforts of this life, as far as they are necessary. And mercy, an interest in the free love and favour of God in Christ, the spring and fountain of all other blessings.

The written word of God is the rule we are to follow, both in its doctrines and precepts. May his grace always be with our spirit, to sanctify, enliven, and encourage us, and may we always be ready to maintain the honour of that which is indeed our life. The apostle had in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus, the scars of wounds from persecuting enemies, for his faithfulness to Christ and the doctrine of the gospel.

The apostle calls the Galatians his brothers; by this he shows his humility and his tender affection for them. And he takes his leave with a very serious prayer that they might enjoy the favour of Christ Jesus, both in its effects and in its evidences. We need desire nothing more to make us happy than the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. The apostle does not pray that the law of Moses, or the righteousness of works, but that the grace of Christ, might be with them; that it might be in their hearts and with their spirits, enlivening, comforting, and strengthening them. To all of which he adds his Amen, signifying his desire that it might be so, and his faith that it would be so.