Galatians 4:21-31 is about the allegory of Sarah and Hagar, illustrating the difference between slavery under the law and freedom through faith in Christ as the promise of God’s grace.
Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not listen to the law?
22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman.
23 But the son of the slave was born according to the flesh, while the son of the free woman was born through promise.
24 Now this may be interpreted allegorically: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for slavery; she is Hagar.
25 Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia; she corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children.
26 But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother.
27 For it is written, “Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and cry aloud, you who are not in labor! For the children of the desolate one will be more than those of the one who has a husband.”
Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise.
29 But just as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so also it is now.
30 But what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman.”
31 So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman.
Setting the Scene for Galatians 4:21-31
In Galatians chapter 4, the apostle Paul sets the scene by referencing the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar from the book of Genesis. Paul uses this story as an allegory to explain the difference between living under the law and living under grace.
Imagine a group of early Christians gathered in a dimly lit room, listening intently as Paul passionately recounts the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar. The flickering light of oil lamps casts shadows on the faces of the listeners, creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. Paul’s voice echoes off the stone walls as he describes how Sarah, unable to bear children, gave her maidservant Hagar to Abraham to conceive a child on her behalf.
As Paul continues his narrative, the listeners are transported back in time to the dusty plains of Canaan, where Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar navigate the complexities of their unconventional family dynamic. The tension and drama of the situation are palpable as the characters grapple with issues of faith, obedience, and human frailty. Through Paul’s vivid storytelling, the listeners are able to see themselves reflected in the struggles and triumphs of these ancient figures, gaining a deeper understanding of the profound spiritual truths he is imparting.
What is Galatians 4:21-31 about?
The verse from Galatians uses the story of Hagar and Sarah as an allegory to represent a deeper spiritual truth about the difference between living under the law versus living under grace. Hagar represents the law, which is associated with bondage, rules, and human effort to earn salvation. Sarah, on the other hand, symbolizes grace, which is about God’s unmerited favor, freedom, and salvation through faith. The passage highlights the contrast between relying on our own works to achieve righteousness and trusting in God’s promise and provision for salvation by drawing a parallel between the two women and their sons, Ishmael and Isaac. This allegory emphasizes that true freedom and fulfillment come not from following a set of rules but from surrendering to God’s grace and living in relationship with Him.
The reference to the earthly and heavenly Jerusalems further expands on this theme, illustrating the distinction between our earthly, temporary existence and the eternal, spiritual reality of God’s kingdom. This verse challenges us to consider where our allegiance lies and to choose to live in the freedom and blessings that come from being children of the promise, rather than slaves to the law.
Understanding what Galatians 4:21-31 really means
In Galatians 4:21-31, the Apostle Paul employs the allegory of Hagar and Sarah to convey a crucial message to the Galatians, who were being swayed by Judaizers advocating for adherence to the Mosaic Law. By delving into the historical context, we understand that Paul’s primary aim is to elucidate the disparity between living under the constraints of the law and embracing the freedom found in the promise of grace. He prompts the Galatians to reflect on their inclination towards legalism by posing a poignant question: “Tell me, you who want to be under the law, are you not aware of what the law says?”
Paul strategically introduces the characters of Abraham’s two sons, one born to the slave woman Hagar and the other to the free woman Sarah, laying the foundation for the allegorical representation of the old and new covenants. Through this allegory, Hagar symbolizes the old covenant of the law, while Sarah embodies the new covenant of grace. By elucidating that the women represent two distinct covenants, Paul clarifies his use of figurative language to convey deeper spiritual truths to his audience.
Furthermore, Paul reassures the Galatians of their status as children of promise, akin to Isaac, emphasizing their inheritance of the promise bestowed upon Abraham rather than being shackled by the demands of the law. This narrative finds resonance in contemporary struggles with legalism versus grace, where individuals grapple with the misconception that they must earn God’s favor through their actions. The passage serves as a poignant reminder that our relationship with God is rooted in His promise and grace, transcending the confines of mere rule-keeping.
Drawing parallels to Romans 8:15 and Hebrews 8:6, which underscore the believers’ adoption as children of promise under the superior new covenant of grace, we glean a deeper understanding of the theological implications embedded in Paul’s allegory. Just as the child in the anecdote learns that their parent’s love is freely given, not earned through chores and obedience, the Galatians are urged to embrace their identity as heirs of God’s promise, liberated from the burden of legalistic observances.
In conclusion, the allegory of Hagar and Sarah serves as a poignant exhortation for believers to revel in the freedom and grace afforded by the new covenant, transcending the constraints of the old covenant of the law. Embracing our identity as children of promise, we are beckoned to bask in the unmerited favor and boundless love extended to us through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Let us, therefore, relinquish the yoke of legalism and immerse ourselves in the unfathomable depths of God’s grace, living out our faith as heirs of the promise.
What does the allegory of Hagar and Sarah teach us?
The allegory of Hagar and Sarah teaches us about the difference between living under the law and living under grace. Hagar represents the Old Covenant, which is associated with slavery and bondage, while Sarah represents the New Covenant, which is associated with freedom and promise. This allegory conveys the idea that trying to earn salvation through works and following the law is like being a slave, while receiving salvation by grace through faith is like being a child of promise.
Furthermore, the allegory emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s promises and having faith in His plan. We are called to trust in God’s faithfulness and rely on His grace for salvation, just as Sarah believed in the promise of God despite her old age and inability to bear children. Sarah encourages us to let go of our own efforts to earn righteousness and instead trust in God’s provision for us through Christ. The allegory of Hagar and Sarah ultimately serves as a reminder that our salvation does not depend on our own works or efforts, but on God’s grace and faithfulness. It underscores the importance of trusting in God’s promises, living by faith, and embracing the freedom that comes from being a child of promise under the New Covenant.
Application
Imagine juggling your work, your family obligations, and trying to meet endless expectations. It’s exhausting, right? Now picture dropping those heavy chains and embracing true freedom. Galatians 4:21-31 calls us to break free from the suffocating grip of legalism. You are not a cog in the machine of religious performance; you are a cherished child of promise. Isn’t it time to let go and live in the freedom Christ has waiting for you?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.