▼ ‡ Several important witnesses have ὁ θεός (ho qeos) after εὐδόκησεν (eudokēsen; so א A D Ψ 0278 33 1739 1881 Maj. co) while the shorter reading is supported by Ƥ⁴⁶ B F G 629 1505 pc lat. There is hardly any reason why scribes would omit the words (although the Beatty papyrus and the Western text do at times omit words and phrases), but several reasons why scribes would add the words (especially the need to clarify). The confluence of witnesses for the shorter reading (including a few fathers and versions) adds strong support for its authenticity. It is also in keeping with Paul’s style to refrain from mentioning God by name as a rhetorical device (cf. ExSyn 437 [although this section deals with passive constructions, the principle is the same]). NA²⁷ includes the words in brackets, indicating some doubts as to their authenticity.

▼ Grk “from my mother’s womb.”

▼ Or “to me”; the Greek preposition ἐν (en) can mean either, depending on the context.

▼ This pronoun refers to “his Son,” mentioned earlier in the verse.

▼ Or “I did not consult with.” For the translation “I did not go to ask advice from” see L&N 33.175.

▼ Grk “from flesh and blood.”