Galatians 4:1-20
Q.1. How did Paul view Israel before Jesus came? Why did God send His Son? How does Christ change our relationship with God? – (Gal.4:1-7)
Paul stated that the unsaved Israel, like a ‘child-heir’, was no better than a slave, even though she was best placed to inherit everything (Gal.4:1-2). However, the child – is still under guardians and managers until the date set by the father (Gal.4:2). That time has fully come when – God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, that we might receive adoption as sons (Gal.4:4). As His spiritually born children, we have had our bondage to the elemental things of the world replaced by sonship in God’s family (Gal.4:3-7). This frees us from bondage to the Law and makes us willing slaves of Christ. With this wonderful change, there comes a strong desire to be pleasing to God (2 Cor.5:9).
Q.2. Why was Paul perplexed? Under what circumstances had the Galatians embraced the Gospel? What made Paul concerned? – (Gal.4:8-20)
The Galatians had entered into the liberty of Christ. This newfound relationship was known by God (Gal.4:8-9). Paul was utterly perplexed as to why they would turn back to rule-keeping, and the special Sabbaths and festivals of Judaism (Gal.4:8-10). He feared that his ministry to them had been in vain (Gal.4:11). Paul painstakingly reminded them of how they had embraced the Gospel, despite his loathsome bodily affliction (Gal.4:12-14). He testified that – you received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus Himself … I bear you witness that, if possible, you would have plucked out your eyes and given them to me (Gal.4:14-15). Now there was hostility which required Paul to warn them about the reintroduction of the bondage from which the Gospel had freed them (Gal.4:16-17). He continued – My children, with whom I am again in labour until Christ is formed in you – but I could wish to be present with you now and to change my tone, for I am perplexed about you (Gal.4:19-20).