John 8:35

A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son belongs to it forever.

Study Bible

A slave
The term "slave" in this context is translated from the Greek word "δοῦλος" (doulos), which refers to someone who is in bondage or servitude. In the historical context of the Roman Empire, slaves were considered property and had no rights or permanent status within a household. Spiritually, this term is used to describe those who are in bondage to sin, lacking the freedom and inheritance that comes with being a child of God. The imagery of slavery here is a powerful reminder of the temporal and unstable nature of living outside of God's grace.

is not a permanent member
The phrase highlights the transient and insecure position of a slave within a household. In ancient times, a slave could be sold or transferred at the master's will, emphasizing the lack of permanence and security. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual condition of those who are enslaved by sin; they do not have a lasting place in God's family. The temporary nature of a slave's position contrasts sharply with the eternal security offered to believers.

of the family
The "family" here refers to the household of God, a recurring theme in the New Testament that signifies belonging, relationship, and inheritance. In a biblical sense, being part of God's family means being in a covenant relationship with Him, enjoying the privileges and responsibilities that come with being His child. This familial language underscores the intimacy and love that God extends to those who are His.

but a son
The word "son" is translated from the Greek "υἱός" (huios), which signifies not just a male child, but an heir with full rights and privileges. In the cultural context of the time, a son had a permanent place in the family and was entitled to the inheritance. Spiritually, this represents believers who, through faith in Christ, are adopted into God's family and enjoy the full rights of sonship, including eternal life and a secure place in God's kingdom.

belongs to it forever
This phrase emphasizes the eternal security and permanence of the believer's position in God's family. The Greek word "μένει" (menei) means to remain or abide, indicating a lasting and unchangeable status. In contrast to the temporary status of a slave, a son has an unbreakable bond with the family. This assurance of eternal belonging is a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering hope and confidence to believers that their relationship with God is secure and everlasting.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is addressing the Jews and teaching about spiritual freedom and sonship.

2. The Jews
The audience to whom Jesus is speaking, particularly those who believed in Him but struggled with understanding His teachings on freedom and slavery.

3. Slavery
A metaphorical concept used by Jesus to describe the bondage of sin and the lack of true freedom outside of Him.

4. Sonship
Represents the permanent and secure relationship believers have with God through Jesus Christ.

5. The Family of God
The spiritual household to which believers belong, contrasting with the temporary status of a slave.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Slavery and Freedom
Recognize that sin enslaves, and only through Jesus can one experience true freedom and become a permanent member of God's family.

The Permanence of Sonship
Embrace the security and permanence of being a child of God, which is not based on our works but on our relationship with Jesus.

Identity in Christ
Live out your identity as a son or daughter of God, understanding that this status is eternal and unchanging.

The Role of Jesus in Our Adoption
Acknowledge Jesus as the one who grants us access to the family of God, making us heirs with Him.

Living as Part of God's Family
Engage with the community of believers, understanding that as sons and daughters, we are called to love and serve one another.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the difference between a slave and a son in this verse impact your view of your relationship with God?

2. In what ways can you live out your identity as a child of God in your daily life?

3. How do the concepts of slavery and sonship in John 8:35 relate to the themes of freedom and adoption in Galatians 4:7 and Romans 8:15-17?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to remind yourself of the permanence of your sonship in God's family?

5. How can the assurance of being a permanent member of God's family influence your interactions with other believers and non-believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 4:7
This verse discusses the transition from slavery to sonship through Christ, emphasizing the believer's new identity as a child of God and an heir.

Romans 8:15-17
These verses highlight the spirit of adoption, where believers are no longer slaves to fear but are children of God, calling Him "Abba, Father."

Hebrews 3:6
This passage contrasts Moses as a servant in God's house with Christ as a Son over God's house, reinforcing the permanence of sonship.

1 John 3:1-2
These verses celebrate the love of God that allows believers to be called children of God, emphasizing the reality and future hope of this identity.