But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.
But here's what happened back then: the son who was born the regular way gave the spiritually-born son a hard time. And honestly? The same thing is still happening now.
People who rely on their own effort will always clash with those walking by faith, it's been that way since day one.
📚 Historical Context
In the Old Testament, Ishmael, born to Abraham through Hagar as a result of human effort, persecuted Isaac, who was born through God's miraculous promise to Sarah. Paul uses this story in his letter to the Galatians to illustrate the ongoing conflict between those who rely on the law and works (representing the flesh) and those who rely on faith and the Spirit. This was particularly relevant in the early church as Jewish Christians sought to impose circumcision and the Mosaic law on Gentile believers.
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