Tag: Bible verses about rituals

Galatians 4:3 (NKJV) 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world.

This verse, along with verses 4 and 5, are very weighty. They make known to us some very deep truths that we need to understand.

Understanding them will help change the way we look at our relationship with God, our Father.

Let’s dig in!

In verse 3, we are told that when we were children, we were in bondage to the elements of the world.

What, exactly, does that mean?

First, the word “children” isn’t necessarily referring to our age. It’s referring to the state of our relationship with God, through Christ. When we initially put our faith in Christ, we were spiritual children, lacking in understanding and maturity.

As with natural things, we grow spiritually, over time, based on the effort we put forth to do so.

Next, the word “bondage” is used.

We were in bondage. We were slaves. We were not free, and likely didn’t even know it.

What were we in bondage to? Let’s take a look.

Also mentioned in verse 3 are “the elements of the world”.

This is not talking about the weather, as elements would normally be referred to.

It’s talking about spiritual principles. We were slaves to the spiritual principles of this world.

It refers to the fact that most humans adhere to very basic, ritualistic spiritual principles of religion. Everything is rote and systematic. There is no life in it. Do this. Do that. Follow the pre-defined steps you’ve been taught. Stay in your box.

This is not life in Christ. It is 100% tradition and repetition.

As you can see, our lives were, in and of themselves, lifeless.

Tomorrow, let’s look at the next verses and see what we can learn from them.

Stay tuned!

Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie

Seven Seas Ministries
P.O. Box 272
Bradford, RI 02808

401-315-0902

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