Scripture:
Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir. Galatians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Observation:
Galatians 4:1-7 can be seen as a new version of the exodus story. Just as the Israelites were tempted to return to the familiarity of slavery in Egypt rather than depending on God’s love and provision, the early Christians were tempted to revert to living under the law as a means of salvation. Paul emphasizes that living under the law is akin to slavery—trying to achieve righteousness through human effort is an endless, exhausting pursuit that ultimately leads to bondage.
Without the gospel, we are all condemned to slavery. If anything besides Jesus is required for being happy and worthy, that very thing becomes our slave master. In the absence of the gospel, we must be enslaved to an idol, constantly striving for validation and fulfillment in something other than God.
Paul contrasts this with the concept of sonship, a legal term in the Greco-Roman world where a childless wealthy man could adopt one of his servants, making the servant his heir. In the same way, God has adopted me, a former “slave” under the law, and made me His child. By sending the Spirit of His Son into my heart, God enables me to call out “Abba, Father,” establishing a deeply personal and intimate relationship with Him. As God’s child, I am no longer a slave but an heir, with all the rights and privileges that come with this new identity. Whether I live under the law or without it, I am trying to be my own savior, but true freedom and salvation come from embracing my identity as God’s child.
Application:
Understanding the contrast between slavery and sonship can profoundly impact my daily life. Here are some practical examples:
- Freedom from Guilt and Shame: As God’s child, I am no longer bound by the guilt and shame of my past sins. I can approach God with confidence, knowing that I am forgiven and loved.
– Example: When I make a mistake, instead of being paralyzed by guilt, I will remember that I am God’s child and seek His forgiveness and guidance.
- Confidence in Prayer: Knowing that I am God’s child gives me confidence to approach Him in prayer, trusting that He hears and cares for me.
– Example: When faced with a difficult decision, I will pray with the assurance that my Heavenly Father is listening and will provide wisdom.
- Living with Purpose: As an heir of God, I have a purpose and calling to live out my faith in the world, reflecting God’s love and grace to others.
– Example: I will use my gifts and talents to serve others, knowing that I am part of God’s family and have a significant role to play in His kingdom.
- Overcoming Fear: Understanding my identity as God’s child helps me to overcome fear and anxiety, knowing that I am secure in His love.
– Example: When feeling anxious about the future, I will remind myself that I am an heir of God’s promises and rest in His peace.
- Freedom from Idolatry: Without the gospel, I am enslaved to idols, seeking happiness and worth in things other than Jesus. Embracing my identity as God’s child frees me from this bondage.
– Example: When I find myself becoming overly reliant on my career, relationships, or material possessions for validation, I will refocus on my identity in Christ and trust in His love to fulfill my deepest needs.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family and giving me the Spirit of Your Son. Help me to fully embrace my identity as Your child and heir. When I face difficulties, remind me of Your love and presence. Help me to live in a way that reflects my new identity and brings glory to You. Free me from the slavery of idols and help me find true fulfillment in You alone. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen
