Definition: Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and complex verse from Galatians 4:7. It's quite poetic, so we’ll go step-by-step. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.” Let’s unpack that: “Wherefore thou art no more a servant…” – This is the key part. It’s saying that before Jesus Christ, you weren't really a person who was obligated to serve others or follow their commands. You were just… a human being, existing on Earth. Think of it like a baby – they are dependent on someone for their care and survival. “…but a son…” – This is a dramatic shift! It’s saying that now , you're now considered a son – a child of God. You have a special relationship with Him. “…and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.” - This clarifies the “son” part. “Heir” means descendant or rightful possessor. "Through Christ" means that your inheritance is connected to Jesus Christ – He’s the way into God’s family. So, you are now inheriting something special and blessed because of Jesus' work on our behalf. Putting it all together: Galatians 4:7 describes a profound transformation. It speaks of being reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, making you a son – a legitimate child – of God. This isn’t just about being allowed to be a child of God; it's about being a child of God in a way that connects you directly to the divine plan. You are now part of God’s family and have a special connection to Him. In essence, this verse is saying that through Jesus Christ, we are adopted into God’s family and inherit eternal life. --- Important Note: This interpretation is rooted in theological understanding – it's about the concept of justification (being declared righteous by God) and our relationship with God. It’s a complex idea that goes beyond simple literal meaning. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you some context around why this passage is significant in the Bible?