Galatians 4:1-20
Key Verse 4:7 “So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”
1. In what sense were we slaves to the elementary spiritual forces of the world? (3) [“Elemental spiritual forces” (basic principles) in Greek is “stoicheion,” which is literally “ABC’s,” and can be applied broadly to conscience, ethics, superstition or religious systems; see also Colossians 2:20-23.]
2. Why is it significant that Jesus was born of a woman, and under the law? (4; Hebrews 2:17-18)
3. What does it mean that we are adopted by God? (5) How does the fact that we can call God “Abba, Father!” reflect a change in the way God views us, and in the way we relate to him? (6; Romans 8:15-16)
4. What amazing privilege do we have as adopted children of God? (7; Romans 8:17)
5. Why were the Galatians returning to their previous slavery and what were the consequences? (8-11; 15-16) [1984 NIV translation of verse 15a; “What has happened to all your joy?”]
6. What does Paul mean, “I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you”? (19)