NT Fire Starters – Day 261: Galatians 3:26-4:20

READ: Galatians 3:26–4:20

THINK: Have you ever caught yourself feeling envious of people who inherit a life of privilege simply because of who their mother or father is? From an earthly standpoint, you may never lead a life of luxury. Even if you do, the things of this life are temporary and unfulfilling. Yet if you are a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ, you have the ultimate privilege of relating to God and experiencing spiritual freedom. In addition, your inheritance is out of this world–beyond anything you could imagine–and it will last forever.

RESPOND: What does it mean to be “baptized into Christ”? (See 1 Corinthians 12:13 note.) In what way are all people who are in right relationship with God equal in regard to His promise? (See 3:28 note.) Does this mean that ethnic, social, economic, cultural or gender differences have no place in God’s purposes? Why or why not? Why and in what way was Jesus able to rescue people from slavery and make them full-fledged “sons” of God? (See 4:4-7.) What rights and privileges do you have as a child of God? In what way was God’s law a “guardian” of His people and purposes until Christ came and made the way for us to God? (See 4:2 note.) What or whom is the guardian of God’s people now that Christ has finished His work of providing for our spiritual salvation? (See 4:6 note.) In what way does the Holy Spirit help you relate to God as a Father? What kinds of things are people enslaved to before coming to Christ (cf. v. 8)? Why do people who have been freed by Christ often return to the same things that once enslaved them–particularly things they thought could bring them spiritual help or enlightenment? According to verse 18, spiritual zeal and enthusiasm are only good under what conditions? What did Paul’s concern for the Galatians indicate about the spiritual condition and needs of many in the church? (See 4:19 note.)

PRAY: Give God thanks for making you His child through faith in Jesus. Thank Him for the fact that He shows no favoritism in extending the promise of eternal life with Him. Pray that you too will not discriminate in your attitudes and actions toward people–particularly those who share your faith in Christ. Give thanks for the care and benefits that God’s Spirit brings to your life. Pray that you will not depend on anything or anyone else but Christ and the Holy Spirit to keep you in right relationship with God.

ACT: Make sure that the things you are most passionate, enthusiastic and energetic about are worthy purposes and are in line with God’s truth and consistent with His character.