Memorize: Law versus liberty
Key Verses: 1, 5, 10, 15, 30
Paul takes time to explain the cultural place of a guardian with minor children. We have the same thing happen when a parent is given over to the State for care because the parent is unable to care for the child. The courts are responsible for the care of the child and give that responsibility to be a guardian. Spiritually the Law was the guardian until Jesus came and fulfilled the requirements of the Law on our behalf. And as a result of Jesus actions, we are adopted into God’s family. We move from being under the jurisdiction of the courts to full rights as an adult in God’s family. When the Spirit comes into us, we gain that new relationship.
Our master switched since becoming a Jesus-follower. We used to serve sin; now we serve Him. Why would we choose to serve sin again? Why would we want to give up our new relationship and put ourselves under a guardian again? Why would we want to live under those rules now that we have experienced freedom? Obeying the rituals as a way of gaining favor with God is futile. If we have already gained full acceptance, what need is there to do anything?
Paul began his ministry to the Galatians because he was ill. We don’t know what the illness was, but it stopped Paul in his tracks. Some think it was connected to his eyesight because of what Paul mentions in verse 15. But it could be Paul is just showing the extent to which they would have gone to help him get past his illness. They didn’t know how to do coral transplants back then, so giving eyes would have been futile.
Paul is deeply perplexed by their possible actions. He uses a metaphor to illustrate his challenge. There are not many metaphors used outside of the prophetic passages of Scripture, so it is interesting that Paul uses one here. He says the two covenants are two women, one slave and one free. Why would you want to be connected to the slave? The slave son, the one representing the false teachers, persecuted the free son, those who believe and walk by faith. Paul tells them to get rid of the requirements of the Law as a way to please God. We already please God when we exercise faith and trust in Him. You can’t improve on your position. You are accepted by Him.
The Arnold Journey 