What is the meaning of Galatians 4:6? And because you are sons - The statement assumes a present reality: believers already stand in the position of God’s children. This echoes John 1:12, “But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” - Sonship flows solely from faith in Christ, not from law-keeping (Galatians 3:26). - As true sons, we inherit all that belongs to the Father (Romans 8:17). Scripture never portrays this status as tentative; it is a settled fact anchored in the finished work of Jesus. God sent the Spirit of His Son - The Father’s deliberate action—“sent”—highlights both authority and love. Just as He sent the Son into the world (John 3:17), He now sends the Spirit into believers. - “The Spirit of His Son” underscores the unity of the Trinity; the same Spirit who empowered Christ (Luke 4:18) now indwells us (Romans 8:9). - Acts 2:33 affirms this gift: “Having been exalted to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.” Into our hearts - The indwelling is internal, personal, and permanent. God is not satisfied with external religion; He places His very presence within us (1 Corinthians 6:19). - Ezekiel 36:26-27 foretold this miracle of regeneration: God gives a new heart and puts His Spirit within. - The result is transformation from the inside out—new desires, new affections, new power to obey (Philippians 2:13). Crying out, “Abba, Father!” - “Abba” is the intimate family word Jesus Himself used in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36), now placed on our lips by the Spirit. - Romans 8:15-16 parallels this truth: “You received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’ The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” - The Spirit prompts a heartfelt cry, not a formal recitation. Assurance of adoption is experienced, not merely understood. - This cry also indicates dependency and trust; children look to their father for protection, provision, and guidance (Matthew 6:8-9). Summary Because believers are already God’s sons through faith in Christ, the Father has lovingly placed the Spirit of His Son within us. That indwelling presence transforms our inner life and awakens an intimate, confident cry—“Abba, Father!”—testifying that we truly belong to Him and inherit all He has promised. |
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