Galatians 4–6
Common Theme
Believers are adopted as God’s children through Christ and called to live in the freedom of the Spirit rather than under the bondage of the Law. True faith expresses itself through love, restored relationships, and a transformed life.
Questions
- What does it mean to live as a child and heir of God rather than as a slave?
- How does walking by the Spirit reshape the way you treat others?
God Shot
God is a loving Father who redeems and adopts, calling people into freedom and intimate relationship with Him. He empowers holiness by giving His Spirit, producing life and unity that the Law could never achieve.
Deeper
Galatians 4
In Galatians 4, Paul explains that an heir, while a child, is akin to a slave, under guardians until maturity. He emphasizes that God sent His Son to redeem those under the law, allowing them to become adopted sons and heirs through God. Paul expresses concern for the Galatians, who, having known God, are reverting to old, worthless practices. He recalls their initial acceptance of him despite his ailments and questions why they have turned against him. Paul uses the allegory of Hagar and Sarah to illustrate two covenants: one leading to slavery and the other to freedom. He asserts that believers are children of promise, like Isaac, and should not be enslaved but embrace their identity as free children of God.
Galatians 5
In Galatians 5, Paul emphasizes that Christ has freed believers from the law and warns against returning to a life of slavery. He argues that accepting circumcision means being obligated to the entire law, severing one from Christ and grace. True faith, he asserts, is expressed through love. Paul encourages believers to walk by the Spirit, contrasting the desires of the flesh with the Spirit’s desires. He lists the works of the flesh, warning that those who engage in them will not inherit the kingdom of God. Instead, he highlights the fruit of the Spirit, urging believers to live in harmony and avoid conceit and envy.
Galatians 6
The text emphasizes the importance of supporting one another, particularly in times of transgression, urging spiritual individuals to restore others gently. It highlights self-examination and personal accountability, stating that each person must bear their own load. The passage encourages sharing good things with teachers and warns against deception, noting that one’s actions will yield corresponding results. It stresses perseverance in doing good, especially towards fellow believers. The author concludes with a personal note, rejecting external pressures and boasting in the cross of Christ, while wishing peace and grace upon the community.