Galatians 4:18-20
New English Translation
18 However, it is good[a] to be sought eagerly[b] for a good purpose[c] at all times, and not only when I am present with you. 19 My children—I am again undergoing birth pains until Christ is formed in you![d] 20 I wish I could be with you now and change my tone of voice,[e] because I am perplexed about you.
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- Galatians 4:18 tn Or “commendable.”
- Galatians 4:18 tn Or “to be zealous.”
- Galatians 4:18 tn Grk “But it is always good to be zealous in good.”
- Galatians 4:19 tn Grk “My children, for whom I am again undergoing birth pains until Christ is formed in you.” The relative clauses in English do not pick up the emotional force of Paul’s language here (note “tone of voice” in v. 20, indicating that he is passionately concerned for them); hence, the translation has been altered slightly to capture the connotative power of Paul’s plea.sn That is, until Christ’s nature or character is formed in them (see L&N 58.4).
- Galatians 4:20 tn Grk “voice” or “tone.” The contemporary English expression “tone of voice” is a good approximation to the meaning here.
Galatians 4:18-20
New International Version
18 It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you.(A) 19 My dear children,(B) for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,(C) 20 how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!
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