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Text: Galatians 4:1-11

Advent continues, with a message from Galatians (Galatians 4:1-11)

Prepare

Questions to Consider:

1. In the 'header context' of verses 1-3, Paul's illustrating a point he's especially made in the last paragraph of chapter 3. If you could summarize that point, what would it be? He applies it forward in verse 3, leading into the Gospel of verses 4-7.
2. In the 'footer context' of verses 8-11, Paul's dealing with a common temptation for the Christian, one that if embraced outright, could make shipwreck of one's faith—they'll have proven to be no true Christian at all. Paul will have labored 'in vain.' What's the temptation? Consider verses 9-10. What might Paul mean by 'the elementary principles of the world' both in verse 3 and verse 9? Consider those he identifies in verse 8. Overall, have you thought that Gospel-less religion, organized or paganized, whether something we're enslaved to or, having been freed, still tempted to from day to day is the product of demonic influences? For further thought on this, consider 1 Corinthians 8:4-6, 10:18-21, 2 Corinthians 4.4.
3. As verses 4-7 sit squarely between the poles of verses 1-3 and 8-11, what does that say about the centrality of the Gospel, not just for saving us at first, but also preserving by the day? If we're to walk in the glorious freedom of the children of God, can we afford regular bouts of Gospel amnesia?
4. In verse 4, we begin to see God's Gospel solution to the Galatian problem. We see the gift of His Son incarnate. What four things does Paul mention in relation to the Son's incarnation? What's meant by 'the fullness of time'? What's implied by 'God sent forth His Son'? What's highlighted by His being 'born of woman,' 'born under the law'?
5. In verses 5-7, we see God's goal through His Son incarnate. What is that goal? Paul actually details it in four graces or purposes of God in saving us. What are they? Do you really believe what these verses say about you? I know you do, but what I mean is are they actually impacting your life from day to day—what you believe, how you think, how you act? Are they keeping you from the lies and falsehoods we're often tempted to believe and/or pursue? This Advent season, consider that Jesus was born, not just to set us free, but that we might then walk in His freedom, that we might live in light of what the Gospel says about us. Commit to preaching this Gospel and it's declarations (vv. 5-7) to yourself at least once daily. You'll benefit by it.