Title: Galatians 4:1–7
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Galatians 4:1–7
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, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. (ESV)
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In his sermon on Galatians 4:1–7, Jed Gillis explores the profound difference between being a slave and being an heir in God's family. He likens the distractions of our daily lives to seeing only the immediate surroundings and missing the majestic mountains in the distance, representing deeper theological truths. Gillis emphasizes that while we were once enslaved to worldly principles, God sent Jesus at the perfect moment in history—"the fullness of time." Jesus' birth, life under the law, and ultimate redemption transform us from slaves into adopted children of God. This adoption grants us not only a new identity but also an inheritance as heirs with Christ. By sending His Spirit into our hearts, we can now cry out "Abba! Father!" and live in the freedom and joy of being God's children. Gillis urges believers to focus on these deeper truths during Christmas, reminding them that their faith is built on the monumental reality of God becoming man to redeem humanity.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
