Galatians 4:1-7: Growing Up in God’s Family

In this passage, the Apostle Paul uses a relatable analogy to explain our spiritual journey as Christians. Let’s break it down:

Imagine a young heir to a vast fortune. Even though he’s destined to inherit everything, as long as he’s a child, he’s no different from a servant. He’s under the control of guardians and managers until the time set by his father.

This is like us before we come to know Christ. We may have been “heirs” in the sense that God created us and loved us, but we were enslaved to the “elementary principles of the world.” These could include legalism, fear, or following cultural norms instead of God’s truth.

But when the time was right, God sent His Son, Jesus, who was born under the law, to redeem us. He paid the price for our freedom, so we could be adopted into God’s family as His sons and daughters.

Now, because we are God’s children, He has sent the Holy Spirit into our hearts, who cries out “Abba, Father!” This isn’t just a title; it’s an intimate term of endearment, like a child calling their dad “daddy.” It shows our close relationship with God.

So, we are no longer slaves to sin and fear, but sons and daughters – and heirs! We inherit all the blessings God has for us, including eternal life.

Questions to Consider

1. How does Paul’s analogy of a child heir help you understand your spiritual journey?
2. What were some “elementary principles of the world” that you were enslaved to before coming to know Christ?
3. What does it mean to you to call God “Abba, Father”? How does it change your relationship with Him?
4. How does knowing that you are an heir of God affect your life and choices?
5. In what ways can you live out your identity as a child of God in your daily life?

Challenge

This week, take some time each day to thank God for adopting you into His family and sending the Holy Spirit to guide you. Think about the incredible inheritance He has in store for you and how it should shape your life.