King James Bible
"For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."
Paul uses agricultural imagery to describe investing one's efforts in satisfying sinful human nature. In the Galatian context, this likely refers to relying on circumcision and law-keeping rather than faith, as well as indulging selfish desires. The inevitable harvest of flesh-focused living is decay and destruction. The Greek word for corruption (phthora) implies both moral deterioration and ultimate death, emphasizing that what originates from fallen nature cannot produce lasting fruit. This contrasts deliberate investment in Spirit-led living through faith, love, and obedience to Christ. Paul encourages the Galatians to actively cultivate spiritual practices and attitudes that align with the Holy Spirit's work. The Spirit's harvest yields eternal life—both future resurrection and present spiritual vitality. This promise reinforces Paul's gospel message that salvation comes through the Spirit's work, not human effort or religious performance.