CHILDREN OF GOD
- Key Verse
"But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, . . . so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. . . . Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God." (Galatians 4:4-5, 7)
READ TODAY'S PASSAGE-
READ THE CHAPTER
Central Truth
The majority of this passage is written in the past tense! God has already acted in history and set us free. We must respond in faith!
Reflections
In opening Galatians chapter four, the Apostle Paul presents the reader with yet another image of a life under law. After previously stating that those who believe are no longer prisoners nor pupils (Galatians 3:23, 25), Paul now says that we, as faith-filled Christ-followers, are no longer "under guardians and managers" (Galatians 4:2).
Much of what Paul is trying to explain in this chapter can be compared to the result of healthy relationship development between a parent and child.
I am blessed to share a strong relationship with my earthly father. Our current dynamic is a product of many years of development, not to mention the sovereignty of God. In the past 24 years my father has served in various capacities including those of a rule-maker and disciplinarian. But today, at 24 years of age, I no longer view my father as a rule-maker and disciplinarian. Rather, I now see my dad as a confidant and close friend. The love and respect I practice towards my earthly father is out of the desires of my heart and not the forced reaction to any strict rules that my father still holds me to today.
As Christ-followers we are sons and daughters, not slaves. The direction of the Spirit supersedes the direction of the law. We have the opportunity to worship and serve Him in freedom and power that is not held to a strict set of rules. May we be constantly challenged to deepen the authenticity of our relationship with the Lord and flee from a reliance on "the law."
Discussion Questions
- Where are some areas where you have previously clung to a rules-based relationship with Christ?
- What are some key obstacles that keep you from embracing the direction of the Spirit?
- Maybe your relationship with your earthly father has been less than ideal. One of the beautiful parts of this passage is Paul's inclusion of all Christ-followers by using the term "adoption" to describe the transformation of people under the law to the distinction of "son of God." How might you be able to use your earthly situation to glorify the Lord as an "adopted" son or daughter of God?
Karen Goins
February 26, 2010 12:06 PM
The Central Truth says it all! Thanks, Luke for so precisely pointing that out!
Joanie Jorss
March 2, 2010 06:20 AM
My relationship with my deceased earthly father was unhealthy and not much love. But when I discovered Christ and realized "Abba" was my true father with unconditinal love, He set me free and I am so greatful to be a dauther of the king and father who truly love's me...even when I make mistakes....
Ray Wall
March 2, 2010 07:32 AM
Luke, thanks for the great example of the way Christ loves us as our Father and how we respond to him out of love.
Rod MacIlvaine
March 2, 2010 08:42 AM
Great words Luke. I like the way you pointed out the idea that we rest in the finished work of Christ. Thanks for bringing out that concept of adoption in the question section. Rod
Susan Miner
March 2, 2010 09:54 AM
I like your reminder that God has already acted. Also I like your example of the father-son relationship. I thought your discussion questions were excellent. Luke, I liked your devotional!