Central Truth

God has made us His children and as His children, we can come to Him without fear or hesitation because He is our beloved Father.

Reflections

When I first read this passage, I immediately thought of John Eldredge's book Fathered by God. This book is the focus in "Band of Brothers" on Wednesday mornings, and it has provided a whole new perspective on my heavenly Father. I know we are taught to pray "Our Father . . . ," but it wasn't until this year that I even began to think of God as my Father. 

The Apostle Paul uses this passage to teach the Galatians about redemption for those living under the law. Through grace and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, we become children of God. Through a spiritual adoption no longer are we slaves to the law. No longer are we children awaiting an earthly inheritance. Our inheritance has arrived. As Christians, we inherit the kingdom of God, the gift of salvation and eternal life through our belief in Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Paul's message to the Galatians is loud and clear. We are redeemed from the law through the blood of Christ.

Galatians 4:1-7 also parallels my favorite book of the Bible, Romans. In Romans 8:15, Paul writes "For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, 'Abba!  Father!'" We have been adopted by Him. We are all heirs to His kingdom.

Owning my own business over the last three years has had its ups and downs. Fluctuations in income along with the uncertainty that goes with being self-employed are difficult. Thankfully my heavenly Father is always there to listen to my problems, hear my prayers, and faithfully provide all that I need. He gives me strength, comfort and encouragement when I need it the most. 

Discussion Questions

1.  How has God been a father to you?

2.  How is being under the law similar to childhood?

3.  How does being in Christ compare to adulthood?

4.  Do you think that there are Christians today who still live under the law? If so, what does that mean exactly? And why do you think they choose to live under it?