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Galatians 4:7

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Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Wherefore {G5620} thou art {G1488} no more {G3765} a servant {G1401}, but {G235} a son {G5207}; and {G1161} if {G1487} a son {G5207}, then {G2532} an heir {G2818} of God {G2316} through {G1223} Christ {G5547}.

So through God you are no longer a slave but a son, and if you are a son you are also an heir.

So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God.

So that thou art no longer a bondservant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

Commentary

Galatians 4:7 is a powerful declaration of the transformation in status experienced by believers in Christ. It contrasts the former state of being a servant with the glorious reality of being a son and therefore an heir of God.

Context

This verse follows Paul's explanation in Galatians 4:1-6 about the difference between being under the law and being "in Christ." He likens those under the law to a child who, though the rightful owner, is treated no differently than a servant and is subject to guardians and stewards until a predetermined time. However, when the "fulness of the time was come," God sent His Son to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive the adoption of sons. Because we are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father (Galatians 4:6). Verse 7 is the conclusion drawn from this profound change in relationship and status.

Key Themes

  • From Servant to Son: The core message is the dramatic shift in identity. A servant (*doulos* in Greek, often meaning bondservant or slave) has no inherent rights or permanent place in the household. A son (*huios*, indicating a mature son with full legal rights) has a deep, familial relationship and full access to the father's resources. This highlights the freedom and intimacy believers gain in Christ, moving from a relationship based on obligation under the law to one based on love and belonging.
  • Heirship with God: As sons, believers become heirs of God. This means we are entitled to share in the divine inheritance, which includes eternal life, glory, and all the promises of God. It signifies a secure and abundant future, not earned by works, but granted through grace as part of our new family relationship. This concept is echoed in other epistles, such as when Paul speaks of being heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.
  • Through Christ: The entire transition from servant to son and heir is explicitly stated as being "through Christ." His redemptive work is the sole basis for this change in status. It is by faith in Him that we are adopted into God's family and receive the rights and privileges of sonship. Those who receive Him are given the right to become children of God.

Linguistic Insights

The contrast between doulos (servant/slave) and huios (son) is significant. Doulos implies a state of bondage or obligation, while huios denotes a position of freedom, privilege, and intimate relationship within the family structure, particularly with full legal standing. The term klēronomos (heir) reinforces this, signifying one who receives an inheritance, which is a direct result of the sonship granted through Christ.

Reflection

Galatians 4:7 is a cornerstone verse for understanding Christian identity. It assures believers that their standing before God is not based on their performance under the law, but on their relationship as adopted sons and daughters through Christ. This truth should profoundly impact how we see ourselves, our relationship with God, and our future hope. We are not merely servants working for a master, but beloved children with a secure inheritance, called to live in the freedom and intimacy of our heavenly Father's household.

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Cross-References

  • Galatians 3:29 (17 votes)

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

  • Galatians 4:2 (17 votes)

    But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

  • Romans 8:16 (14 votes)

    The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

  • Romans 8:17 (14 votes)

    ¶ And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.

  • Galatians 3:26 (14 votes)

    For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:21 (13 votes)

    ¶ Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;

  • 1 Corinthians 3:23 (13 votes)

    And ye are Christ's; and Christ [is] God's.