Galatians 4:4-5
Verse of the Day
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Galatians 4:4-5
But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children.
Introduction
This passage encapsulates the heart of the gospel, revealing God’s perfect timing in the plan of salvation and the profound love demonstrated in the sending of His Son. It highlights Christ’s incarnation, His redemptive mission, and the transformative result: our adoption into the family of God. Paul's words offer both theological depth and practical hope for believers today.
Commentary
Paul begins by pointing to the "fullness of time," indicating that God’s actions in history are neither random nor hasty. This moment was divinely appointed, aligning with God’s providential timeline. The Son, Jesus Christ, was sent by God, emphasizing His divine origin, but also "born of a woman," affirming His humanity. This dual nature was essential for fulfilling the requirements of the law on our behalf.
The phrase "born under the law" underscores Jesus’ identification with humanity in its fallen state, subject to the demands and constraints of the Mosaic Law. By doing so, He was positioned to redeem those enslaved by the law—those unable to fulfill it perfectly.
Finally, Paul introduces the purpose of this redemption: adoption. Redemption was not merely about rescuing humanity from sin but elevating them to the status of children of God. This adoption implies an intimate relationship with God, access to His inheritance, and a transformed identity.
Understanding Context
The Galatians were struggling with a crisis of identity, torn between their newfound faith in Christ and the insistence by some that they must adhere to the Mosaic Law to be truly saved. Paul uses this passage to reaffirm the sufficiency of Christ’s work and to remind the Galatians that salvation is based on God’s grace, not human effort.
The adoption metaphor would resonate deeply with Paul’s audience. Roman culture often used adoption to confer legal rights and privileges upon the adopted child, making them equal to natural-born heirs. Paul applies this imagery to explain the believer’s new status in Christ.
Application for Today
This passage speaks to the modern believer about God’s sovereignty and intentionality. Just as Christ came at the perfect moment in history, God works in the fullness of His time in our lives. This truth calls us to trust His timing, even when we feel impatient or uncertain.
Moreover, it invites us to embrace our identity as God’s children. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness, but this adoption assures us that our value comes from God’s choice to redeem and include us in His family. It challenges us to live not as spiritual orphans but as beloved heirs.
Reflection
Consider God’s timing in your life. Are there areas where you find it difficult to trust His plan? Reflect on how Jesus’ coming at the "fullness of time" reassures you of His perfect timing in all things.
Embrace your identity as God’s child. What does it mean to you to be adopted into His family? How does this shape your daily life and interactions with others?
Pray with gratitude. Take a moment to thank God for sending His Son, redeeming you, and giving you the privilege of being His child.
May these verses remind us of God’s love, Christ’s sacrifice, and the amazing grace that has brought us into His eternal family.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
