From Slaves to Heirs
Through faith alone in Christ alone we’re transformed from slaves to heirs—heirs of God! God places the believer into the body of Christ. And in that moment, we put on Christ. That’s a profound, new reality. The only alternative to a life without Christ is bondage to something. Sometimes we may not even realize we’re living as slaves. But when we’re adopted by God we not only become His children but also His heirs.
Discussion Questions
So much confusion revolves around the law (Torah—the first five books of the Old Testament). Do a short study on the role of the law by reading the following passages: Galatians 3:19, Hebrews 8:13, 2 Corinthians 3:7-11, Romans 6:14 and Galatians 5:18. What was the purpose of the law?
How do you become a son or daughter of God? Read Galatians 3:26. Why is the baptism mentioned in Galatians 3:27 not water baptism (compare 1 Corinthians 12:13)? What is baptism by the Spirit?
Read Galatians 3:28. How does our unity in Christ break down walls but not destroy our individual identity?
Paul introduces the reality that the believer is an heir of God. What does Paul mean by that in 3:29? How is a Christian related to Abraham?
Read Galatians 4:1-3. Put into your own words the point that Paul is making. What is bondage to the elements of the world (v. 3). How does that compare to the law mentioned in Galatians 4:9?
Read Galatians 4:4-7. How are we adopted by God? The Spirit is given to every believer. Notice what the Spirit cries out. Compare these verses to Romans 8:15-17. What is the difference between an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ?
The Final Word
The book of Galatians is a powerful treatise on the sufficiency of God’s grace to save us apart from the externals of law-keeping. Attempting to keep the law as the way to salvation or even as the means for growing in Christ ends in failure and bondage. Freedom is...
Relationships, Sowing, and Reaping
God's Spirit gives new life to His people so that we can live like we have new life. This new life only properly functions in community with other people. When we walk in selfless community by God's Spirit, we experience the benefits of new life in Him. Discussion...
The Key to Freedom
To this point in Galatians, Paul has done much in the way of explaining the freedom available in the gospel and the condemnation present in the Law. But how do we get that freedom, especially those of us who don’t feel so “free?" What is it that we need to do in order...
For Freedom
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. These are some of the most powerful and important words of the New Testament. The Grace of God through Jesus Christ sets us free to live in fellowship with God and with others. If only it were that simple. The book of...
Moving Forward Not Backwards
Believing in Jesus for your salvation means you’re adopted by God and headed to heaven. But becoming a Christian won’t help you change and grow unless you’re cooperating with God’s Spirit in your life. You’re either moving forward or sliding backwards. Spiritual...
The Law and The Gospel
God has a covenant relationship with His people, and He always keeps His promises, no matter what our shortcomings may be. In fact, even our best efforts don't get us into right relationship with God. We only have right relationship with Him because of Jesus. The Law...
Bewitched and Foolish
Sometimes clarifying the gospel requires stern language. Confusion about the nature of salvation and walking with God is a serious matter. That’s why Paul addresses the Galatian Christians as “bewitched” and “foolish.” It’s like a spell was cast over them. Their...