Galatians 4:27

For it is written: "Rejoice, O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth and cry aloud, you who have never travailed; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband."

Study Bible

For it is written
This phrase indicates that Paul is referencing the Old Testament, specifically Isaiah 54:1. The use of "it is written" underscores the authority and divine inspiration of Scripture. In a conservative Christian perspective, this affirms the continuity and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament.

Rejoice, O barren woman
The term "barren" in the ancient world often carried a stigma, as children were seen as a blessing from God. The Greek word for "rejoice" (χαίρω, chairō) is a call to joy and celebration, which is paradoxical for a barren woman. This highlights the transformative power of God's promise, turning sorrow into joy.

who bears no children
This phrase emphasizes the natural state of barrenness, which in the historical context, was often seen as a sign of divine disfavor. However, Paul uses this to illustrate the miraculous work of God, who brings life and fulfillment where there was none.

break forth and cry aloud
The imagery here is one of exuberant expression. The Greek word for "break forth" (ῥήγνυμι, rhēgnumi) suggests a sudden and powerful action. This reflects the overwhelming joy and unexpected blessing that comes from God's intervention.

you who have never travailed
"Travailed" refers to the labor pains of childbirth. The absence of travail signifies a lack of natural means to produce offspring, yet God promises an abundance beyond natural limitations. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual fruitfulness of those who rely on God's promise rather than human effort.

because more are the children of the desolate woman
The "desolate woman" symbolizes those who are spiritually barren or marginalized. The promise of "more children" signifies the expansive and inclusive nature of God's covenant, extending beyond ethnic Israel to include all who have faith in Christ.

than of her who has a husband
This phrase contrasts the natural and the supernatural. The "woman with a husband" represents those who rely on human means and the law. In the conservative Christian view, this underscores the superiority of the new covenant of grace over the old covenant of the law.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Galatians, addressing the churches in Galatia to correct false teachings and affirm the true gospel.

2. Isaiah the Prophet
The original source of the quotation in Galatians 4:27, found in Isaiah 54:1, which speaks to the restoration and blessing of Israel.

3. Sarah and Hagar
The allegorical figures Paul uses in Galatians 4 to contrast the old covenant of the law (Hagar) with the new covenant of grace (Sarah).

4. Jerusalem
Represents the spiritual city of God, contrasted with the earthly Jerusalem, symbolizing the new covenant of freedom.

5. Galatian Churches
The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with Judaizers who insisted on adherence to the Mosaic Law for salvation.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Heritage
The barren woman represents those who seem spiritually desolate but are promised a greater spiritual heritage through faith in Christ.

Freedom in Christ
Just as Sarah's children are free, believers are called to live in the freedom of the new covenant, not under the bondage of the law.

Joy in God's Promises
The call to "rejoice" is a reminder that God's promises bring joy and fulfillment beyond our current circumstances.

Faith Over Works
The allegory of Sarah and Hagar emphasizes that righteousness and inheritance come through faith, not through adherence to the law.

Hope for the Desolate
Those who feel spiritually barren or unfruitful are encouraged to trust in God's ability to bring about growth and blessing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Sarah and Hagar illustrate the difference between living under the law and living under grace?

2. In what ways can we apply the call to "rejoice" in our own lives, especially when facing spiritual barrenness or challenges?

3. How does understanding our spiritual heritage as children of promise affect our identity and daily walk with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can live in the freedom of the new covenant, avoiding the legalism that Paul warns against?

5. How can the hope and promise of spiritual fruitfulness encourage us in times of personal or communal desolation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 54:1
The original prophecy that Paul quotes, which speaks of the future joy and expansion of God's people.

Genesis 16-21
The account of Sarah and Hagar, which Paul uses to illustrate the difference between living under the law and living under grace.

Romans 9:6-9
Paul discusses the children of promise, connecting to the idea of spiritual descendants rather than physical lineage.

Hebrews 11:11-12
Highlights the faith of Sarah, who, despite being barren, became the mother of many nations through God's promise.