Galatians 4:3

Authorized King James Version

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

Word-by-Word Analysis

οὕτως

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

καὶ

G2532

Even

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἡμεῖς

G2249

we (only used when emphatic)

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

ἦμεν

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

νήπιοι

G3516

children

not speaking, i.e., an infant (minor); figuratively, a simple-minded person, an immature christian

ὑπὸ

G5259

under

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

τὰ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

στοιχεῖα

G4747

the elements

something orderly in arrangement, i.e., (by implication) a serial (basal, fundamental, initial) constituent (literally), proposition (figuratively)

#10

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

κόσμου

G2889

of the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

#12

ἦμεν

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

#13

δεδουλωμένοι·

G1402

in bondage

to enslave (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Galatians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Galatians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?