Paul's analogy of an heir underlines the transition from spiritual immaturity to maturity. An heir, though the rightful owner of an estate, has no more freedom than a servant while still a child. This illustrates how, before knowing Christ, people are bound by the law, similar to how a child is under guardianship. The law serves as a guide until one reaches spiritual maturity and can fully embrace their identity and freedom in Christ. This passage encourages believers to grow beyond mere adherence to rules and embrace the fullness of their relationship with God. It highlights the journey from being bound by external constraints to experiencing the freedom and responsibility that come with being a mature child of God. This growth process involves understanding one's identity in Christ and the spiritual inheritance that comes with it, urging believers to live out their faith with the freedom and authority that comes from being heirs with Christ.
What I am saying is that as long as an heir is underage, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate.
Galatians 4:1
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