How does Galatians 4:26 connect to the promise of freedom in John 8:36? Setting the Scene in Galatians 4 Paul contrasts two mothers, two covenants, and two cities: • Hagar represents Mount Sinai, earthly Jerusalem, and slavery under the Law (Galatians 4:24–25). • Sarah represents the promise, the Jerusalem above, and freedom (Galatians 4:23, 26). The Heavenly Jerusalem: Our Birthplace of Freedom • Galatians 4:26: “But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother.” • “Jerusalem above” is literal—an actual, present, heavenly city (Hebrews 12:22) where God rules. • Because she is “our mother,” believers are spiritually born into that city, inheriting its character: freedom. • Citizenship is anchored there, not on earth (Philippians 3:20). Freedom Promised by the Son • John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” • Jesus delivers from sin’s bondage (John 8:34) and from the condemnation of the Law (Romans 8:1–2). • True freedom is not autonomy but release to serve God in righteousness (Romans 6:18). Connecting the Dots: One Source of Freedom 1. Same origin – Heavenly Jerusalem is Christ’s realm; freedom flows from His completed work. 2. Same means – The Son’s atoning death and resurrection open access to the city (Hebrews 10:19–22). 3. Same result – Believers are no longer slaves but children (Galatians 4:7). – “Free indeed” (John 8:36) equals “Jerusalem above is free” (Galatians 4:26). Both describe the new identity granted in Christ. Supporting Passages • 2 Corinthians 3:17: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” • Romans 8:15: We receive “the Spirit of sonship,” not a spirit of slavery. • Revelation 21:2: The heavenly Jerusalem will one day descend, visibly uniting heaven and earth in freedom forever. Living It Out • Reject legalism and self-effort; cling to grace alone (Galatians 5:1). • Walk in the Spirit, not the flesh, to enjoy practical freedom (Galatians 5:16). • Celebrate citizenship in heaven now, while influencing earth as ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). |
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