Galatians 4:4

But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law,

Study Bible

But when the set time had fully come
This phrase emphasizes God's perfect timing in the unfolding of His divine plan. The Greek word for "set time" is "chronos," which refers to a specific period or season. Historically, this was a time when the Roman Empire had established peace (Pax Romana), a common language (Koine Greek), and a network of roads, all of which facilitated the spread of the Gospel. This highlights God's sovereignty and wisdom in orchestrating events to prepare the world for the coming of Christ.

God sent His Son
The phrase underscores the divine initiative in salvation. "Sent" (Greek: "exapostellō") implies a mission with authority and purpose. This reflects the eternal relationship within the Trinity, where the Son is sent by the Father. It also fulfills Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 9:6, which foretold the coming of a divine Son. This act of sending is a profound expression of God's love and grace towards humanity.

born of a woman
This phrase affirms the true humanity of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "ginomai" (born) indicates that Jesus entered into human existence in the same way as all people. "Of a woman" highlights the fulfillment of the prophecy in Genesis 3:15, where the "seed of the woman" would crush the serpent's head. It also emphasizes the virgin birth, as detailed in the Gospels, underscoring both the miraculous and humble nature of Christ's incarnation.

born under the law
Here, the phrase indicates that Jesus was subject to the Jewish Law, the Torah. The Greek word "hupo" (under) signifies subjection and obedience. Jesus' life was lived in perfect adherence to the Law, fulfilling it completely (Matthew 5:17). This was necessary for Him to be the perfect, sinless sacrifice for humanity's sins. His submission to the Law also identifies Him with those He came to save, showing His solidarity with humanity's plight under the Law's demands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The sovereign Creator who orchestrates the plan of salvation. In this verse, He is the one who sends His Son at the appointed time.

2. His Son (Jesus Christ)
The central figure of the New Testament, sent by God to redeem humanity. He is both fully divine and fully human.

3. Woman (Mary)
The mother of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of the virgin birth. Her role is crucial in the incarnation of Christ.

4. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law under which Jesus was born. It signifies the old covenant that Jesus came to fulfill and transcend.

5. The Fullness of Time
This phrase indicates God's perfect timing in the unfolding of His redemptive plan. It suggests a divinely appointed moment in history.

Teaching Points

Divine Timing
God's plans unfold in His perfect timing. Trust in His sovereignty and timing in your own life.

The Incarnation
Jesus' birth as fully human and fully divine is central to Christian faith. Reflect on the mystery and significance of the incarnation.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The birth of Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies, affirming the reliability of Scripture. Study the prophecies to strengthen your faith.

Living Under Grace
Jesus was born under the law to redeem those under the law. Embrace the freedom and grace found in Christ, moving beyond legalism.

God's Redemptive Plan
Recognize that God's plan for salvation is comprehensive and intentional. Consider your role in His ongoing work in the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding "the fullness of time" in Galatians 4:4 impact your view of God's timing in your personal life?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' birth strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

3. How can the concept of Jesus being "born under the law" help you appreciate the freedom you have in Christ?

4. Reflect on the significance of the incarnation. How does Jesus being both fully God and fully man affect your relationship with Him?

5. How can you actively participate in God's redemptive plan in your community, knowing that He has a perfect timing for everything?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:15
This verse is often seen as the first prophecy of the coming Messiah, who would be born of a woman and defeat sin and death.

Isaiah 7:14
This prophecy speaks of a virgin giving birth to a son, which is fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 1:22-23
This passage describes the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy in the birth of Jesus, emphasizing His divine nature and mission.

Philippians 2:6-8
These verses highlight the humility and obedience of Christ, who, though divine, took on human form and submitted to the law.

Hebrews 4:15
This verse underscores Jesus' ability to empathize with our weaknesses, having been born under the law and tempted as we are, yet without sin.