1. A son or a slave? (1-3)

Those who lived under the Old Testament law were indeed God's people. They had God's word; they had all the promises of God. But living under the law made them slaves, practically speaking. They were like sons who were still under the tutelage of a governess or a guardian. They were not free. This time of training of the people of Israel prepared the world to receive Christ. God also trains us so that we can know how to obey Christ and please God.

2. When the time came (4-7)

God is the God of history. He sent his Son at the right time. Jesus was born under the Law to redeem those under the Law. But whoever receives Jesus is set free from the Law and set free from sin. God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts because we are his children. Because of the Spirit of Jesus in us, we call God, 'Father.' It is the Spirit dwelling in us who makes us truly free.

Application: Father, let the Spirit of your Son rule my heart and life so that I may be truly free.
One Word: Abba, Father