Galatians 4:28

Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.

Now {G1161} we {G2249}, brethren {G80}, as {G2596} Isaac {G2464} was {G2596}, are {G2070} the children {G5043} of promise {G1860}.

You, brothers, like Yitz’chak, are children referred to in a promise of God.

Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise.

Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise.

Commentary

In Galatians 4:28, the Apostle Paul delivers a powerful declaration about the true identity of believers, drawing a pivotal conclusion from his allegorical teaching in the preceding verses. He states, "Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise." This verse serves as a foundational statement for understanding Christian freedom and spiritual inheritance.

Context

This verse is the culmination of Paul's intricate allegory in Galatians 4:21-27, where he contrasts two women, Hagar and Sarah, and their respective sons, Ishmael and Isaac. Hagar, the slave woman, represents the covenant of the Law given at Mount Sinai, which leads to bondage. Ishmael, born of human effort, symbolizes those who seek righteousness through adherence to the Law. In contrast, Sarah, the free woman, represents the covenant of grace and promise. Isaac, born miraculously according to God's promise when Abraham and Sarah were beyond natural childbearing age (Genesis 21:2), symbolizes those who are born of the Spirit and receive salvation through faith in God's promise.

Paul’s argument is directed at the Galatian believers who were being swayed by Judaizers, false teachers advocating for adherence to the Mosaic Law (like circumcision and dietary laws) as necessary for salvation. Paul passionately argues that salvation is by grace through faith alone, not by works of the Law, echoing the truth that Abraham himself was justified by faith.

Key Themes

  • Spiritual Identity and Lineage: Paul asserts that believers in Christ are not children of the Law (like Ishmael) but are, by divine design, "children of promise" (like Isaac). This defines their spiritual heritage as one rooted in God's supernatural initiative and faithfulness, not human effort or natural descent.
  • Freedom from Legalism: Being children of promise means being free from the bondage of the Law. Just as Isaac was the heir, not Ishmael, believers are heirs of God's promises through Christ, not through adherence to a system of rules. This theme is central to Paul's entire letter to the Galatians, emphasizing freedom in Christ.
  • Salvation by Grace Through Faith: The miraculous birth of Isaac highlights that God’s plan of salvation is not dependent on human ability or works, but entirely on His sovereign promise and power. This resonates with the concept of salvation being a gift of God's grace through faith, apart from works.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase "children of promise" is tekna epangelias (τέκνα ἐπαγγελίας). The word epangelia specifically means "a promise," particularly a divine promise. Its use here underscores that the spiritual birthright of believers is not earned or achieved, but is entirely a gift based on God's sworn word and covenant. This emphasizes God's faithfulness and the passive reception of salvation by the believer, highlighting that God always takes the initiative in redemption.

Practical Application

For believers today, Galatians 4:28 offers profound assurance and a clear understanding of our identity:

  • Embrace Your True Identity: Recognize that your standing with God is based on His promise and grace, not on your performance or ability to keep rules. You are a child of promise, beloved and chosen. This identity brings deep security and peace.
  • Live in Freedom: This verse liberates us from the pressure to earn God's favor or prove our worth through works. We are called to live not under the burden of the Law, but in the glorious liberty that Christ provides (Galatians 5:1), enjoying our status as heirs through God.
  • Trust God's Faithfulness: Just as God faithfully fulfilled His promise to Abraham regarding Isaac (Genesis 21:2), we can trust Him to fulfill all His promises to us, His children of promise. This assurance brings peace and confidence in our walk with Him and in the future hope of glory.
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Cross-References

  • Galatians 4:23 (8 votes)

    But he [who was] of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman [was] by promise.

  • Romans 9:8 (6 votes)

    That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these [are] not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.

  • Romans 9:9 (6 votes)

    For this [is] the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son.

  • Romans 4:13 (5 votes)

    For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, [was] not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

  • Romans 4:18 (5 votes)

    Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.

  • Galatians 3:29 (5 votes)

    And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

  • Acts 3:25 (4 votes)

    Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.