Yes, we are “holding” another morning or two in Galatians 6:1, studying its intricacies. Here’s that Text, word for word … King James Version. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a FAULT, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”
In a “fault?”
I suppose it is some kind of “sin,” don’t you?
And it is!
But the word Paul uses is so technical, so very precise.
“Paraptoma,” in Greek.
It means “having fallen down!”
“Down,” but yet “beside” or “near” something or someone.
In the “hole” of sin!
In a spiritual “mud-puddle!”
(Now … the normal Greek word for sin is “hamartia,” basically meaning you have “missed out” on something, something good! “Fallen short” of some goal or ideal. “Lost” a blessing of some kind!)
But “paraptoma?”
This noun is only used 23 times in the New Testament’s entire 260 chapters.
Wow!
It is most often translated “trespasses,” 9 times in all. (Meaning in English … “to step across the line!” Almighty God’s “DO NOT GO HERE” Line!)
Then, it (“paraptoma”) is translated “offense” 7 more times.
Now add “sin” 3 times.
Then it is rendered “fall” 2 times, along with (as in our Text here) “fault” twice.
The implication of this “fault” is that the “hole” into which this Christian has fallen … or the “slippery place” which has so deceived him (tripped him) … was an accidental thing, not a failure he or she planned ahead of time.
Not a deliberate sin!
An accident!
After all … “If we sin WILFULLY after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins.” Hebrews 10:26
Therefore … if (or when) your brother or sister slips, “falls” (near you, in your sight) … go and help him! Assist her! Pick him up! Restore him!
This helpful encouragement … is just what we do for each other as Christians!
After all … you might “paraptoma” (fall down) tomorrow!
And if so … don’t you hope there’s a fellow Believer somewhere nearby … to help you stand back up, to rectify yourself?
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault …”
Wow!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell