1. Lesson One
    Epistles (First Few Verses Of Each Pauline Epistle)
    25 Activities
  2. Lesson Two
    Overview of Galatians
    19 Activities
  3. Lesson Three
    Works-Righteousness as Slavery
    19 Activities
    |
    2 Assessments
  4. Lesson Four
    Faith, Life, and the Spirit
    13 Activities
    |
    1 Assessment
  5. Lesson Five
    Author and Audience
    17 Activities
    |
    2 Assessments
  6. Course Wrap-Up
    Course Completion
    1 Activity
    |
    1 Assessment
Lesson 3, Activity 3

In | Workbook: What Does Paul Mean by Slavery?

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Grab your Workbook Journal!

[Record your answers in the workbook provided at the beginning of this course.]

When we think of slavery, we tend to think of physical bondage and oppression. Paul has something metaphorical in mind in Galatians, though the physical reality was something everyone in Roman society understood. 

  1. Read the passages below and summarize what you think Paul has in mind—and what he is trying to say—when he uses the language of slavery.

This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. 
Galatians 2:4 (NIV)

 

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 (NIV)

 

So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir. 
Galatians 4:7 (NIV)

 

Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods.
Galatians 4:8 (NIV)