+III. Suggests errors that are contagious in their evil influence.+--"A little leaven, leaveneth the whole lump" (ver. 9). A proverbial expression the meaning of which is at once obvious. A small infusion of false doctrine, or the evil influence of one bad person, corrupts the purity of the Gospel. It is a fact well known in the history of science and philosophy that men, gifted by nature with singular intelligence, have broached the grossest errors and even sought to undermine the grand primitive truths on which human virtue, dignity, and hope depend. The mind that is always open to search into error is itself in error, or at least unstable (1 Cor. xv. 33; Eccles. ix. 18). +IV. Shall not escape chastisement whatever his rank or pretensions.+--1. _Either by direct Divine judgment._ "He that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be" (ver. 10). The reference here may be to some one prominent among the seducers, or to any one who plays the troubler. God will not only defend His own truth but will certainly punish the man who from wicked motives seeks to corrupt the truth or to impair the faith of those who have embraced it. The seducer not only deceives himself but shall suffer judgment for his self-deception and the injury he has done to others. 2. _Or by excision from the Church._--"I would they were even cut off which trouble you" (ver. 12). An extravagant expression, as if the apostle said, "Would that the Judaising troublers would mutilate themselves," as was the custom with certain heathen priests in some of their religious rites. The phrase indicates the angry contempt of the apostle for the legalistic policy, and that the troublers richly deserved to be excluded from the Church and all its privileges. The patience of the Gentile champion was exhausted and found relief for the moment in mocking invective. +V. Does not destroy the hope and faith of the true teacher.+--1. _He retains confidence in the fidelity of those who have been temporarily disturbed._ "I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded" (ver. 10). Notwithstanding the insidious leaven, the apostle cherishes the assurance that his converts will after all prove leal and true at heart. He has faithfully chided them for their defection, but his anger is directed, not towards them, but towards those who have injured them. He is persuaded the Galatians will, with God's help, resume the interrupted race they were running so well.