King James Version
What Does Galatians 4:2 Mean?
“But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.”
Context
1
Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
2
But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
3
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: elements: or, rudiments
4
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Under tutors and governors.**—The distinction between these two terms is that between guardians of the person and stewards of the property. It would be better to translate, *guardians and stewards.*
**Until the time appointed of the father.**—From this it would appear that the length of the minority was determined by the father. This, however, was not the case either in Greek or Roman law; and the suggestion that the father may have had larger powers in Galatia than elsewhere, though supported by some remote indications, seems to be one of those subtleties in which learning sometimes overreaches itself; it being unlikely that the short sojourn of the Apostle in Galatia would have been enough to make him acquainted with the technicalities of the Galatian code. It is more probable that the application of the analogy has here come in to modify the statement of the analogy itself. The minority of the human race *is* fixed by the heavenly Father, though the earthly father, in disposing of his children, has to conform to another law than his own will.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Galatians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Galatians 4:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.