Topical Bible: Titles and Names of Saints: Children of the Free-Woman

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The title "Children of the Free-Woman" is a significant biblical designation found in the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Paul. This term is deeply rooted in the allegorical interpretation of the account of Sarah and Hagar, the wives of Abraham, as presented in the Epistle to the Galatians.

Biblical Context

The primary scriptural reference for this title is Galatians 4:21-31. In this passage, Paul contrasts two covenants represented by two women: Hagar, the slave woman, and Sarah, the free woman. Hagar corresponds to Mount Sinai and the present city of Jerusalem, symbolizing the old covenant of the Law, which brings bondage. In contrast, Sarah represents the new covenant of grace, associated with the heavenly Jerusalem, which brings freedom.

Paul writes, "But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother" (Galatians 4:26). He further explains that believers in Christ are like Isaac, the child of promise, born through the power of the Spirit, not through human effort or the flesh. Thus, they are "children of the free woman" (Galatians 4:31).

Theological Significance

The title "Children of the Free-Woman" underscores the identity and spiritual status of believers in Jesus Christ. It highlights the transition from the old covenant, characterized by the Law and human effort, to the new covenant, characterized by grace and divine promise. This transition is central to Pauline theology, emphasizing that salvation and righteousness come through faith in Christ, not adherence to the Law.

Being "children of the free woman" signifies freedom from the bondage of the Law and sin. It affirms the believer's position as heirs of God's promises, akin to Isaac, who was born as a result of God's miraculous intervention and promise to Abraham and Sarah. This identity is not based on ethnic lineage or adherence to the Law but on faith in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Implications

For Christians, being "children of the free woman" carries profound implications for their daily lives and spiritual walk. It calls believers to live in the freedom that Christ has secured, avoiding the legalistic tendencies that can lead to spiritual bondage. This freedom is not a license for sin but an invitation to live by the Spirit, producing the fruit of righteousness.

Moreover, this identity fosters a sense of unity among believers, transcending ethnic and cultural barriers. As children of the promise, Christians are part of a spiritual family that spans across time and geography, united by faith in Christ and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

The title "Children of the Free-Woman" is a powerful reminder of the transformative work of Christ and the new identity believers possess in Him. It calls Christians to embrace their freedom in Christ, live by the Spirit, and rejoice in their status as heirs of God's eternal promises.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Galatians 4:31
So then, brothers, we are not children of the female slave, but of the free.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Fifthly, as this Revelation, to the Judgment of Right and Sober ...
... their lot in the kingdom promised to the saints of the ... after the flesh; but he of
the free woman, was by ... the promise was not made to all the children of Abraham ...
/.../xiv proposition xiv fifthly as.htm

Justification by an Imputed Righteousness;
... much less wretched, while carrying misery into the hearts and families of God's
saints. ... For as my doings, though my children are fed and clothed thereby, are ...
/.../justification by an imputed righteousness.htm