GALATIANS 4 - LIVING AS GOD’S CHILDREN

 

GALATIANS 4

 Paul explains that believers are no longer slaves under the Law but sons and heirs through Christ, and he warns the Galatians not to return to bondage.

1.       PAUL’S TEACHING

We are Heirs, Not Slaves (v:1–7)

• Before Christ, God’s people were like minors—heirs, but not yet free.
• Purpose: to redeem and to adopt us as sons.

Our relationship with God is based on adoption, not obligation.

 

2.       PAUL’S WARNING

 Do Not Return to Bondage (v:8–11)

• Turning back to the Law is like returning to pagan slavery.
• Observing days, months, seasons, and years as a requirement for salvation is bondage.

Religion without Christ leads back to slavery.

 

3. PAUL’S APPEAL (v:12–20)

• Paul reminds them of their former love and care for him.
• He expresses deep concern and spiritual anguish.

“Have I become your enemy because I tell you the truth?” v:16

Truth spoken in love is still truth.

 

4. PAUL’S POINT

Born of the Promise, Not the Flesh (V:21–31)

·       Hagar = Mount Sinai = slavery = flesh

·       Sarah = promise = freedom = Spirit

 Isaac represents life in the Spirit (promise); Ishmael represents human effort (flesh).

 

CHRISTIANITY IS NOT ABOUT EARNING GOD’S FAVOR, BUT LIVING AS GOD’S CHILDREN.