◄ Galatians 4 ►
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Sons and Heirs 1What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he is the owner of everything. 2He is subject to guardians and trustees until the date set by his father. 3So also, when we were children, we were enslaved under the basic principlesa of the world. 4But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons. 6And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” 7So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God. Paul’s Concern for the Galatians 8Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. 9But now that you know God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you are turning back to those weak and worthless principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? 10You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! 11I fear for you, that my efforts for you may have been in vain. 12I beg you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you. You have done me no wrong. 13You know that it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. 14And although my illness was a trial to you, you did not despise or reject me. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus Himself. 15What then has become of your blessing? For I can testify that, if it were possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. 16Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth? 17Those people are zealous for you, but not in a good way. Instead, they want to isolate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them. 18Nevertheless, it is good to be zealous if it serves a noble purpose—at any time, and not only when I am with you. 19My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, 20how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you. Hagar and Sarah (Genesis 21:9–21) 21Tell me, you who want to be under the law, do you not understand what the law says? 22For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman and the other by the free woman.b 23His son by the slave woman was born according to the flesh, but his son by the free woman was born through the promise. 24These things serve as illustrations, for the women represent two covenants. One covenant is from Mount Sinai and bears children into slavery: This is Hagar. 25Now Hagar stands for Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present-day Jerusalem, because she is in slavery with her children. 26But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother. 27For 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.”c 28Now you,d brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. 29At that time, however, the son born by the flesh persecuted the son born by the Spirit. It is the same now. 30But what does the Scripture say? “Expel the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman’s son will never share in the inheritance with the free woman’s son.”e 31Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman. Footnotes: 3 a Or elemental forces; similarly in verse 9 22 b See Genesis 16:15 and Genesis 21:2–3. 27 c Isaiah 54:1 28 d WH, BYZ, and TR we 30 e Genesis 21:10 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Galatians 4 Summary Sons and Heirs Verses 1–3 – Heirs Under Guardians An heir is no better off than a slave while still a minor; he lives under stewards until the date set by his father. Paul uses this picture to describe Israel under the Law—possessors of a promise yet experiencing restriction. Verses 4–7 – God’s Son and Our Adoption “When the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son… so that we might receive adoption as sons.” Christ’s arrival ends the era of guardianship. Because the Spirit now cries “Abba, Father” in our hearts, believers are no longer slaves but heirs. Verses 8–11 – Turning Back to Weak Elements Paul laments that the Galatians, once freed from idols, are slipping into new bondage by observing special days and seasons as though the Law could save them. Verses 12–20 – Paul’s Personal Appeal He begs them to remember their early affection for him, reminds them of his physical weakness when he preached the gospel, and wonders aloud if he has become their enemy by telling them the truth. Verses 21–31 – Hagar and Sarah: Two Covenants Using Genesis, Paul contrasts Hagar (slave woman, Mount Sinai, present Jerusalem) with Sarah (free woman, Jerusalem above). Believers, like Isaac, are children of promise; therefore they must cast out legalistic slavery. In Galatians 4, Paul elaborates on the believer's journey from slavery under the law to sonship in Christ. He expounds on the concept of spiritual adoption and its implications for our identity and inheritance in Christ. He recalls his relationship with the Galatians and contrasts the accounts of Hagar and Sarah to distinguish between slavery under the law and freedom in the promise. Historical Background of Galatia and Paul’s Relationship with the Churches • Galatia was a Roman province in central Asia Minor inhabited by Celts and Greeks. • Acts 13–16 recount Paul’s missionary work there (Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe). • Illness likely detained Paul (Galatians 4:13), giving opportunity to preach; the churches received him “as an angel of God.” Roman Law of Inheritance and the Idea of Guardians (4:1–3) • Under Roman law a paterfamilias appointed a tutor (guardian) and a curator (manager) over an heir until about age 14 and 25 respectively. • Even though the estate belonged to the child by right, daily life was governed by others. • Paul equates the Law with these guardians—useful for a season but never meant to be permanent (cf. Colossians 2:17). “The Fullness of Time” and the Birth of Christ (4:4–5) • Pax Romana provided safe roads, a common language (Greek), and relative peace, allowing rapid spread of the gospel. • Messianic expectation was high among Jews (Daniel 9:24-27). • Jesus was “born of a woman, born under the Law”, satisfying every legal demand so He could redeem those under it (Matthew 5:17). Adoption as Sons: Spiritual Privilege (4:5-7) • Roman adoption granted the adoptee full rights of inheritance; old debts were canceled. • “Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba, Father!’”. Cross-references: ‒ Romans 8:15, “you received the Spirit of adoption.” ‒ John 1:12, “to all who received Him… He gave the right to become children of God.” The “Weak and Worthless Elements” (4:8-11) • Elements (stoicheia) can mean basic religious rituals—calendar observances, food laws, astrological fears common in first-century paganism as well as in legalistic Judaism. • Observing “days, months, seasons, and years” might look pious but denies Christ’s finished work (cf. Colossians 2:16-17). Paul’s Pastoral Heart (4:12-20) • “Become like me, for I became like you” shows Paul’s adaptability to win souls (1 Corinthians 9:19-22). • His thorn in the flesh may have involved eye trouble (v. 15, “you would have plucked out your eyes”). • He likens his concern to labor pains “until Christ is formed in you,” revealing shepherd-level commitment (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8). Hagar, Sarah, and the Law’s Two Covenants (4:21-31) • Genesis 16 & 21 are interpreted allegorically, not denying historical reality but drawing spiritual parallels. • Hagar = Law given at Sinai; children born “according to the flesh” rely on self-effort. • Sarah = covenant of promise; Isaac represents supernatural birth by God’s initiative. • “Cast out the slave woman” (v. 30) urges the church to eject legalism just as Abraham sent Hagar away. Key Connections to Other Scriptures • Promise vs. Law: Romans 4; Hebrews 6:13-20. • Freedom theme: John 8:36, “if the Son sets you free…” • New Jerusalem: Revelation 21:2 links with “Jerusalem above” (v. 26). Archaeological Notes • Tablets from Roman Galatia list legal clauses for tutors/curators, matching Paul’s illustration. • Sinai inscriptions identify ancient trade routes linking Egypt to the Arabian peninsula, situating Hagar’s wilderness flight. • First-century calendars found in Asia Minor mark imperial feast days; Paul’s critique of calendar-keeping would resonate with Gentile believers surrounded by mandatory civic festivals. Practical Application for Believers Today • Religious systems, even well-intentioned Christian traditions, can become “guardians” if they replace direct reliance on Christ. • The Spirit’s cry of “Abba” invites us to approach God with child-like confidence, not hesitation. • Evaluate spiritual habits: do they celebrate freedom or enforce slavery? • Remember Paul’s example—truth spoken in love, personal sacrifice for others, and steadfast refusal to compromise the gospel. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:15-17 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba, Father!' John 1:12-13 But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. Ephesians 1:5 He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will. Teaching Points Heirs and Slaves Paul begins by comparing heirs to slaves, stating that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he is the owner of everything (Galatians 4:1). This illustrates the transition from living under the law to receiving the full rights of sonship through Christ. The Fullness of Time Paul emphasizes that when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons (Galatians 4:4-5). This highlights God's perfect timing and the purpose of Christ's incarnation. The Spirit of Sonship Believers receive the Spirit of God's Son, enabling them to cry out, Abba, Father! (Galatians 4:6). This signifies an intimate relationship with God, contrasting the distant relationship under the law. Turning Back to Weak Principles Paul warns the Galatians against returning to weak and worthless principles (Galatians 4:9), urging them to embrace their freedom in Christ rather than reverting to legalistic practices. Allegory of Hagar and Sarah Paul uses the account of Hagar and Sarah to illustrate the difference between living under the law and living by the promise. He states, Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise (Galatians 4:28). Practical Applications Embrace Your Identity Recognize and live out your identity as a child of God, understanding the privileges and responsibilities that come with it. Reject Legalism Avoid falling into the trap of legalism and instead, embrace the freedom and grace found in Christ. Cultivate Intimacy with God Foster a close relationship with God, acknowledging Him as Abba, Father and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Stand Firm in Freedom Be vigilant against returning to old ways or beliefs that enslave, and stand firm in the freedom Christ has provided. People 1. Paul The author of the letter to the Galatians. Paul is an apostle who is addressing the Galatian church, emphasizing the transition from the law to faith in Christ. He uses his own experiences and teachings to illustrate the freedom found in Christ. 2. Abraham Mentioned in the context of the allegory of Sarah and Hagar. Abraham is the patriarch whose faith is foundational to the argument about being heirs through the promise. Paul refers to Abraham to illustrate the difference between being children of the promise versus children of the flesh. 3. Sarah Referred to allegorically as the "free woman" in verse 22. Sarah is Abraham's wife and the mother of Isaac, representing the covenant of promise and freedom. 4. Hagar Mentioned as the "slave woman" in verse 22. Hagar is Sarah's maidservant and the mother of Ishmael, representing the old covenant of the law and slavery. 5. Isaac The son of Abraham and Sarah, referred to as the child of promise in verse 28. Isaac symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promise and the freedom of the new covenant. 6. Ishmael The son of Abraham and Hagar, implied in the allegory as the child born according to the flesh. Ishmael represents the old covenant and the bondage of the law. 7. Jesus Christ While not directly named in this chapter, Jesus is central to Paul's argument about being heirs through faith. The chapter discusses the transition from the law to the freedom found in Christ, who redeems those under the law. Places 1. Jerusalem Reference Galatians 4:25-26 Description Paul contrasts two Jerusalems in this passage. The first is the "present Jerusalem," which he associates with the old covenant and bondage, symbolized by Hagar. The second is the "Jerusalem above," which he describes as free and the mother of believers, symbolizing the new covenant of grace. The Greek term used here is "Ἱερουσαλήμ" (Hierousalēm), which refers to the physical city as well as the spiritual concept of the heavenly Jerusalem. 2. Mount Sinai Reference Galatians 4:24-25 Description Paul uses Mount Sinai allegorically to represent the old covenant of the Law given to Moses. He associates it with Hagar, the slave woman, and the bondage of the law. The Greek term "Σινᾶ" (Sinai) is used, referring to the actual mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Events 1. Heirs and Slaves Paul begins by explaining that an heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, even though he is the owner of everything. He is under guardians and stewards until the time set by his father (Galatians 4:1-2). The Greek term for "heir" (κληρονόμος, klēronomos) emphasizes the future inheritance that believers have in Christ. 2. Redemption through Christ Paul states that when the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons (Galatians 4:4-5). The term "redeem" (ἐξαγοράζω, exagorazō) refers to buying back or liberating from bondage. 3. The Spirit of Sonship Because believers are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into their hearts, crying, "Abba, Father!" (Galatians 4:6). The Aramaic term "Abba" is a term of endearment and intimacy, reflecting a close relationship with God. 4. No Longer a Slave, but a Son Paul emphasizes that believers are no longer slaves but sons, and if sons, then heirs through God (Galatians 4:7). The transition from slavery to sonship highlights the transformation in the believer's status through faith in Christ. 5. Turning Back to Weak and Worthless Principles Paul expresses concern that the Galatians are turning back to the weak and worthless principles they were enslaved to before knowing God, observing special days, months, seasons, and years (Galatians 4:9-10). The Greek word for "principles" (στοιχεῖα, stoicheia) can refer to basic elements or fundamental principles, often associated with the law or pagan practices. 6. Paul’s Personal Appeal Paul makes a personal appeal to the Galatians, reminding them of their past relationship and how they received him despite his physical ailment (Galatians 4:12-14). He urges them to become like him, free from the law. 7. Paul’s Concern for the Galatians Paul expresses his perplexity and concern for the Galatians, likening his efforts to labor pains until Christ is formed in them (Galatians 4:19-20). The imagery of childbirth underscores the intensity of Paul's desire for their spiritual maturity. 8. Allegory of Hagar and Sarah Paul uses the account of Hagar and Sarah as an allegory to illustrate the difference between the old covenant of the law and the new covenant of promise. Hagar represents Mount Sinai and the present Jerusalem in slavery, while Sarah represents the Jerusalem above, which is free (Galatians 4:22-26). The allegory highlights the contrast between living under the law and living in the freedom of the promise. 9. Children of the Promise Paul concludes by affirming that believers, like Isaac, are children of the promise and not of the slave woman (Galatians 4:28-31). This reinforces the identity of believers as heirs of God's promise, free from the bondage of the law. Lessons from Galatians 4 1. Embrace Your Identity as God's Child In Galatians 4:7, we are reminded, "So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God." This powerful truth invites us to live with the confidence and joy of being God's children. As heirs, we have access to His promises and blessings. Embrace this identity and let it transform how you approach each day, knowing you are deeply loved and valued by your Heavenly Father. 2. Freedom in Christ Galatians 4:9 asks, "But now that you know God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you are turning back to those weak and worthless principles?" This verse challenges us to live in the freedom Christ offers, rather than returning to old habits or legalistic practices. Embrace the liberty found in a relationship with Jesus, and let go of anything that hinders your spiritual growth. 3. The Danger of Legalism Paul warns against the dangers of legalism in Galatians 4:10-11, where he says, "You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! I fear for you, that my efforts for you may have been in vain." Legalism can distract us from the true essence of faith, which is a personal relationship with Christ. Focus on nurturing that relationship rather than getting caught up in rituals or rules. 4. The Power of Spiritual Maturity In Galatians 4:19, Paul expresses his desire for the Galatians to grow spiritually: "My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you." Spiritual maturity is a journey, and it involves allowing Christ to be fully formed in us. Seek to grow in your faith daily, and let the Holy Spirit guide you toward becoming more like Jesus. 5. The Importance of Spiritual Mentorship Paul's relationship with the Galatians highlights the value of spiritual mentorship. In Galatians 4:12, he says, "I plead with you, brothers, become like me, for I became like you." Mentorship is a two-way street, where both parties learn and grow. Seek out mentors who can guide you in your faith journey, and be open to mentoring others as well. 6. The Role of the Holy Spirit Galatians 4:6 reminds us, "And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!'" The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our relationship with God, helping us to communicate with Him and understand His will. Cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit, and allow Him to lead and empower you in your daily life. 7. The Call to Live by Faith Paul emphasizes living by faith in Galatians 4:28, "Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise." Just as Isaac was a child of promise, we too are called to live by faith, trusting in God's promises. Let your faith be the foundation of your life, guiding your decisions and actions. 8. The Joy of Spiritual Inheritance Galatians 4:30 states, "But what does the Scripture say? 'Expel the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman’s son will never share in the inheritance with the free woman’s son.'" This verse highlights the joy of our spiritual inheritance as children of the free woman, symbolizing the freedom and blessings we have in Christ. Rejoice in the inheritance that is yours through faith. 9. The Assurance of God's Promises In Galatians 4:23, we read, "His son by the slave woman was born according to the flesh, but his son by the free woman was born through the promise." This verse assures us that God's promises are reliable and true. Trust in His promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them in your life. 10. The Call to Stand Firm in Freedom Finally, Galatians 4:31 encourages us, "Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman." Stand firm in the freedom that Christ has given you, and do not let anything or anyone lead you back into bondage. Live boldly and confidently as a child of God, embracing the freedom and grace that are yours in Christ. Topics 1. Heirs and Slaves (Galatians 4:1-3) Paul begins by explaining that an heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, even though he owns everything. This analogy is used to describe the state of believers before coming to faith in Christ. The Greek word for "heir" (κληρονόμος, klēronomos) emphasizes the future inheritance that believers are destined to receive. 2. Redemption through Christ (Galatians 4:4-5) "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons." This passage highlights the incarnation and purpose of Christ's coming. The Greek term for "redeem" (ἐξαγοράζω, exagorazō) signifies buying back or liberating from bondage. 3. Adoption as Sons (Galatians 4:6-7) Because believers are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into their hearts, crying, "Abba, Father!" This signifies the intimate relationship believers have with God. The term "Abba" is an Aramaic word that denotes a close, personal relationship akin to "Daddy" or "Papa." 4. Paul’s Concern for the Galatians (Galatians 4:8-11) Paul expresses concern that the Galatians are turning back to "weak and worthless principles" by observing special days and seasons. The Greek word for "principles" (στοιχεῖα, stoicheia) refers to basic elements or elementary teachings, possibly indicating a return to legalistic practices. 5. Personal Appeal from Paul (Galatians 4:12-20) Paul makes a personal appeal, reminding the Galatians of their past relationship and his own physical infirmity when he first preached to them. He expresses his deep concern and labor for them, likening it to childbirth until Christ is formed in them. 6. Allegory of Hagar and Sarah (Galatians 4:21-31) Paul uses the account of Hagar and Sarah as an allegory to contrast the old covenant of the law with the new covenant of grace. Hagar represents Mount Sinai and the present Jerusalem, while Sarah represents the Jerusalem above, which is free. The Greek word for "allegory" (ἀλληγορέω, allēgoreō) indicates a deeper, symbolic meaning behind the historical narrative. Themes 1. Adoption as Sons Galatians 4:4-5 discusses how God sent His Son to redeem those under the law so that we might receive adoption as sons. The Greek word for "adoption" (υἱοθεσία, huiothesia) signifies being placed as a son, emphasizing the believer's new status and relationship with God. 2. Freedom from the Law In Galatians 4:3-7, Paul explains that believers are no longer slaves under the elemental spiritual forces of the world but are now sons and heirs through God. The Greek term "stoicheia" (στοιχεῖα) refers to basic principles or elements, indicating the rudimentary nature of the law compared to the freedom found in Christ. 3. The Allegory of Hagar and Sarah Galatians 4:21-31 uses the account of Hagar and Sarah to illustrate the difference between living under the law and living under the promise. Paul contrasts the two covenants, with Hagar representing Mount Sinai and the old covenant, and Sarah representing the new covenant of freedom. 4. Heirship and Inheritance The theme of heirship is prominent in Galatians 4:1-7, where Paul explains that as long as an heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, though he owns everything. This highlights the transition from being under the law to receiving the full rights of sonship and inheritance through Christ. 5. Concern for the Galatians In Galatians 4:8-20, Paul expresses his concern for the Galatians, who are turning back to weak and worthless principles. He fears that his labor for them might have been in vain, showing his pastoral care and desire for their spiritual maturity. 6. Christ Formed in You Galatians 4:19 speaks of Paul's desire for Christ to be formed in the believers. The Greek word "μορφόω" (morphoō) implies a deep, inward transformation, emphasizing the goal of spiritual maturity and Christlikeness. 7. The Jerusalem Above In Galatians 4:26, Paul refers to "the Jerusalem above" as free and our mother. This contrasts the earthly Jerusalem, representing the old covenant, with the heavenly Jerusalem, symbolizing the new covenant and the freedom it brings. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Sonship Thank God for the privilege of being His child and for the inheritance we have in Christ. Guidance to Live in Freedom Pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance to live in the freedom and grace of the Gospel, avoiding the pitfalls of legalism. Strength to Stand Firm Ask for strength and wisdom to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel and resist returning to old, enslaving ways. Intimacy with God Seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, acknowledging Him as your loving Father. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Galatians 4:4, how can we verify historically that Jesus came at the “fullness of time” as Paul claims? 2. Why does Galatians 4:22-23, referring to Abraham’s two sons, contradict other accounts of their significance in Genesis? 3. If Galatians 4:4-5 implies Jesus was subject to the Law, how do we resolve inconsistencies with gospel portrayals of Jesus overriding certain laws? 4. In Galatians 4:29, Paul compares persecution then to Ishmael’s treatment of Isaac—what archeological or historical evidence supports this parallel? 5. Galatians 4:8-9 suggests turning away from “weak and miserable forces”—what non-biblical sources confirm the nature of these “forces” in that cultural context? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean to be an heir of God, and how does this shape your understanding of your spiritual identity? 2. How does Paul’s relationship with the Galatians illustrate pastoral concern and love? 3. How does the allegory of Hagar and Sarah illuminate the distinction between law and promise? 4. How does the concept of spiritual adoption influence your relationship with God and others? 5. What does it mean that Christ is formed in us, and how can we cultivate this in our lives? 6. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of the freedom found in the New Covenant? 7. How does the story of Hagar and Sarah challenge us to stand firm in our faith? 8. How can you apply Paul's pastoral concern for the Galatians in your relationships with others in your faith community? 9. How can we, as Christians, avoid falling back into the slavery of law-based righteousness? 10. What does this chapter teach us about the consequences of abandoning faith for the works of the law? 11. In what ways does the metaphor of slavery and sonship affect your view of God's grace? 12. How does understanding our identity as children of promise influence our daily living? 13. What lessons can we learn from Paul's earnest appeal to the Galatians? 14. How can the allegory of Hagar and Sarah be applied to understanding conflicts in the church today? 15. How does the image of God as our Abba, Father, deepen your sense of intimacy with God? 16. How does this chapter challenge us to resist cultural or societal pressures that contradict the gospel? 17. How can you reflect the reality of your adoption as God's child in your interactions with others? 18. What does it mean to be a child of the free woman rather than the slave woman in today's context? 19. How does this chapter shape your understanding of the promises God has for His children? 20. How can we live in the freedom of being children of promise in a world that often promotes bondage and conformity? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions