The Coming of Christ

I. Exposition of Galatians 4:1-7

The heir is the Christian who has been saved by grace through faith.
The Guardian is the law.

The cultural background is vital.

The Holy Spirit is called “the Spirit of His Son”.

Christians are sons (children) – adopted by God – in Christ.			
        

II. Understanding Chapter 3 in the Light of 4:1-7

  They did not become Christians by Law-keeping  3:1-4

   Jewish law-keeping was never a part of their heritage – they 
    were pagan Gentiles before the gospel came to them.

    They received the Spirit – by the hearing of faith.
    
    Abraham is the example that Paul wants them to follow  3:5-9

III. Three Covenants are in View

A. God’s Covenant with Abraham (in two parts)
1. By Faith (pre-cursor of the New Covenant)
2. Circumcision (pre-cursor of the Law)

B. The Mosaic Covenant of the Law
C. The New Covenant Inaugurated by Christ.

D. Three Promises to Abraham with Physical and Spiritual Implications
1. Circumcision
2. A Seed
3. Land