Galatians 4:21-31: A Tale of Two Promises

Paul, the writer of Galatians, uses a powerful analogy in this passage to illustrate the difference between living under the law (Old Covenant) and living by faith (New Covenant). He does this by telling the story of Abraham’s two sons: Ishmael and Isaac.

What Happened?

Abraham had two sons. Ishmael was born to Hagar, Sarah’s servant, through human effort and planning. Isaac, on the other hand, was born to Sarah, Abraham’s wife, through God’s miraculous promise.

The Analogy

Paul compares Hagar and Sarah to two covenants. Hagar represents the old covenant of law, which focuses on earning God’s favour through our own efforts and obedience to rules. Sarah represents the new covenant of grace, based on God’s promise and our faith in Jesus Christ.

Ishmael and Isaac also represent the two ways of life resulting from these covenants. Ishmael, born of human effort, represents a life of slavery to the law and trying to earn our salvation. Isaac, born of God’s promise, represents a life of freedom, where we receive God’s grace through faith and live in the Spirit.

Why is This Important?

This passage reminds us that we cannot earn our way to God through following rules and regulations. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law on our behalf.

What Does This Mean for Us?

We are called to live as children of the promise, like Isaac. This means:

• Trusting in God’s promise: Believing that God’s love and salvation are freely given, not something we can earn.
• Living by faith: Relying on God’s grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, not on our own efforts to be good enough.
• Experiencing freedom: Living in the joy and peace that come from knowing we are loved and accepted by God, not burdened by guilt and shame.

Study Questions

1. What are the key differences between Ishmael and Isaac’s births?
2. How does Paul use these differences to explain the two covenants?
3. What does it mean to live as a “child of the promise”?
4. How does this passage challenge any ideas you might have about earning God’s favour?
5. What are some practical ways you can live by faith and experience freedom in Christ today?

Challenge

Take some time to reflect on how you currently relate to God. Are you trying to earn His favour through your own efforts, or are you trusting in His promise and living by faith? If you’re struggling, ask God to help you understand His grace and experience the freedom of being His child.