4:1 I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (Ga 4:1). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
Word pictures and analogies are often used to illustrate a point. In Hebrew language they were critical to paint pictures of words to communicate a point. Although Paul is writing in Greek to a mixed audience of Jews and Gentiles, he continues to use analogies to emphasize the role of the Law. In chapter 3 he emphasized pedagogue. Here in chapter 4 he references an heir and a slave.
Greek culture would consider a child to be an infant until age 7, and a minority until age 25. It is not suggested that Paul is making a legal statement in 4:1, but he is referencing the immaturity of an infant in contrast to the immaturity of a young believer.
In a person’s young faith, the Law brings sin to light. More importantly, in the immaturity of humanity, the Law protected mankind, until the time came for God to send Christ to ratify the Law and redeem mankind.
As we mature in our faith and better understand our identity in Christ, we will begin to see that we are joint-heirs with Christ; as we have been adopted into Him as sons.
Leave a Reply