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So deceitful is the heart, it must be constantly watched, lest under the semblance of piety and religious zeal, we should be led to indulge rancorous and unholy passions. This the apostle seems to have felt; hence the caution (Galatians 5:13-16), the exposure of the fruits both of the flesh and the spirit (vers. 19-23), and the exhortation which concludes with the text.

I. THE DUTY ENJOINED. The term "burden" denotes something which, by uneasy pressure, exhausts the strength and spirits of the person oppressed by it. It may apply to —

1. A weight of labour or bodily toil. This is the effect of the original transgression (Genesis 3:19). We may lighten it by manual assistance, by procuring the requisite help, or pecuniary, which would render the excess of labour unnecessary.

2. A weight of personal affliction (Job 7:20). The pressure of this may be relieved by medical aid, kind attendance, the soothing, sympathising language of friendship, or the considerations which religion affords.

3. Domestic affliction and cares.

4. Providential losses, poverty, embarrassment, oppression, etc.

5. Guilt and corruption. In this case especially, is Christian sympathy demanded.

6. Temptation (Ecclesiastes 4:9; Romans 15:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:14).

7. Infirmities, whether of body or mind. Pity rather than upbraid a weak brother. Help his infirmities, instead of exposing them to others.

II. THE ENFORCING MOTIVE.

1. This is worthy of the character of Christ, inasmuch as it is

(1)  a law of equity,

(2)  a law of benevolence,

(3)  a law of general utility, by which society is benefited, the sum of evil being lessened, and that of happiness increased.

2. It is congenial with the Spirit of Christ (Philippians 2:5; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Colossians 3:12, 13.)

3. It is agreeable with the example of Christ (John 13:13; Philippians 2:6-9; Hebrews 2:14-16).

4. It is deducible from the precepts of Christ (John 13:33, 34; John 15:12, 17).

5. It has, and shall have, the approbation of Christ (Matthew 5:7; Matthew 25:34-40). Concluding inferences:(1) Seeing that the text expresses the peculiar genius of the religion by which we hope for salvation, the subject should awaken inquiry (1 John 4:19-21).

(2) If examination should happen to lead us to humiliating views of past shortcomings, etc., it should also lead us to unreserved and constant obedience; which may be supported by a consideration of what we owe to

(a)  ourselves;

(b)  our brethren;

(c)  our Saviour, who regards what is done to His followers as done to Himself;

(d)  our God, who expects such return for His love (1 John 4:9-11).

(Theological Sketch-book.)

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KJV: Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

WEB: Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.