What does 'my temptation which was in my flesh' mean in Galatians 4:14?
In Galatians 4:14, “my temptation which was in my flesh” refers to Paul’s bodily testing or infirmity, not a moral temptation. The context calls it an infirmity of the flesh, and the word is better understood as testing that accompanied his preaching, yet the Galatians did not despise or reject him.
Les explains that in Galatians 4:13–14 Paul reminds the Galatians how, through infirmity of the flesh, he first preached the gospel to them. Les says the word rendered “temptation” is better translated “testing,” so Paul describes a testing in his flesh. Although the Galatians could have despised or rejected him because of it, they received him as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. Les then points back to 2 Corinthians chapter 12 for further context.
And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
More Questions
What word better fits Galatians 4:14: testing or temptation?
In Galatians 4:14, the word 'testing' fits the meaning better than 'temptation.'
What is a better translation of 'temptation' in Galatians 4:14?
In Galatians 4:14 'testing' is a better word than 'temptation' for what Paul experienced in his flesh.