Galatians 4:3

Memory Verse

Thus, also we, when we were inarticulate babblers, we were slaves under the elementary principles of the world (Galatians 4:3).

In discussing the transition from law to grace, Paul describes those who were under that law as children who were treated no differently than the slaves because they were inarticulate babblers. The law was a guard and tutor to bring them to faith in Christ (Galatians 3:25).

The elementary principles of the world system relate to touch not, taste not, handle not, and the observation of days. Since we have died with Christ from the elementary principles of the world, why would we, as saints of the Church, subject ourselves to slavery to them (Colossians 2:20–22)? The elementary principles of the world have a form of wisdom, but it is in self-made religion, humility, and the neglect of the body, which all have no value against the indulgences of the flesh (Colossians 2:23).

We are to beware of those who seek to cheat us from our freedom in Christ by bringing us under law and the elementary principles of the world as the basis for our righteousness. They may use philosophy, empty deceit, and the traditions of men, all according to the elementary principles of the world, to manipulate us and bring us into bondage (Colossians 2:8).

The one who is an inarticulate babbler is unskilled in the word of righteousness (Hebrews 5:12). The word of righteousness relates to the basic principles of Christ, not law (Hebrews 6:1).