From a Slave to a Son

From a Slave to a Son

Series: Galatians: The Church on the Move
Text: Galatians 4:1–20

Main Idea: In Christ we are adopted children of promise who are called to put away the things of our past.

I. In Christ the New Has Come and the Old Is Gone

Galatians 4:1–3; 4:8–11

Paul uses the illustration of a child-heir under a guardian to show life before Christ.

• Before Christ, we were:
  • Enslaved to the law
  • Enslaved to the world’s “elementary principles”
• The law functioned like a guardian—temporary, restrictive, and preparatory

Key Truth:
Jesus didn’t just improve your life—He completely changed your status.

Isaiah 61:1

• Christ came to proclaim freedom for captives

Application:
Why return to what once enslaved you when Christ has set you free?

II. In Christ We Have Gone from Slavery to Royalty

Galatians 4:4–7

• “Fullness of time” → God’s perfect timing
• Jesus came to:
  • Redeem those under the law
  • Grant adoption as sons

Identity Shift:

• Slave → Son
• Outsider → Heir
• Bound → Free

Romans 6:6–7

• We are no longer enslaved to sin

Key Truth:
You are not just forgiven—you are adopted.

Application:
Stop living like a prisoner when the door has been opened.

III. In Christ We Are Called to Live According to Our New Identity

Galatians 4:8–11

Paul’s warning:

• Don’t go back to:
  • Legalism (law-based righteousness)
  • Worldliness (false gods and empty systems)

John 8:31–36

• “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Romans 6:8–11

• Live as those alive to God

Marks of a New Identity

Ephesians 4:1–3

• Humility, gentleness, unity

John 13:34–35

• Love for one another

Colossians 3:12–17

• Compassion, forgiveness, thankfulness

Key Truth:
Your behavior should reflect your new identity.

Communion Reflection

1 Corinthians 11:23–26

• A reminder:
  • You were a slave
  • Christ paid the price
  • Now you are a son

Closing Challenge

• Are you living like who you were…
  or who you are in Christ?