King James Version
What Does Galatians 4:6 Mean?
“And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.”
Context
4
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
5
To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
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And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
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Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
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Howbeit then , when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(6) It is because you are sons that you are able to address your Heavenly Father in such genuine accents of filial emotion. It is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of Christ which has been given to you in virtue of your adoption. He prompts your prayers.
This verse should be read in connection with Romans 8:15-16, to which it forms a close parallel.
**Because.**—It is, perhaps, on the whole, best to retain this translation. The conjunction may, however, possibly mean *“*in proof that.”
**Abba, Father.**—A reduplication of loving entreaty. (See Note on Romans 8:15.) For similar instances of a Greek word being repeated in Aramaic, or an Aramaic word in Greek, we may compare Revelation 9:11 : “The angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon;” Revelation 12:9 : “That old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan.” The Aramaic “Abba” appears in our word “abbot.”
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 4:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Galatians 4:6
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge