Galatians 5:15

bite--backbite the character. devour--the substance by injuring, extortion, &c. (Hab 1:13; Mat 23:14; Co2 11:20). consumed, &c.--Strength of soul, health of body, character, and resources, are all consumed by broils [BENGEL].

In this chapter the apostle comes to make application of his foregoing discourse. He begins it with a general caution, or exhortation (Gal 5:1), which he afterwards enforces by several considerations (Gal 5:2-12). He then presses them to serious practical godliness, which would be the best antidote against the snares of their false teachers; particularly, I. That they should not strive with one another (Gal 5:13-15). II. That they would strive against sin, where he shows, 1. That there is in every one a struggle between flesh and spirit (Gal 5:17). 2. That it is our duty and interest, in this struggle, to side with the better part (Gal 5:16, Gal 5:18). 3. He specifies the works of the flesh, which must be watched against and mortified, and the fruits of the Spirit, which must be brought forth and cherished, and shows of what importance it is that they be so (Gal 5:19-24). And then concludes the chapter with a caution against pride and envy.

5:15 The opposite of love is biting and devouring one another (cp. Ps 35:25; Prov 30:14; Jer 8:17). People who do not love are characterized by strife and bitterness. They will end up destroying one another. By contrast, love gives life to others (John 3:16; 15:12-13).