But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.
—Galatians 4:4–5
Scripture:
Some people are keenly interested in researching their family tree. Perhaps they’re hoping to discover that they’re related to someone important, famous, or rich. Sometimes they find out things they wish they hadn’t. They discover some pretty notorious characters in their family tree.
You may be surprised to learn that the lineage of Jesus Christ was one of the most messed-up family trees of all time. Recorded for us in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, it included a prostitute, deceivers, adultery, liars, and even murder. Yet we must remember that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and that includes genealogies. And in the genealogy of Jesus, the grace of God is on display.
Normally, Jewish genealogies did not include women. But in Matthew’s genealogy, we find five: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and of course, Mary. What’s fascinating about these women in the most exclusive genealogy in history is that several of them were immoral. This reminds us that Jesus came to heal broken lives and to restore shattered hopes.
The apostle Paul wrote, “But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children” (Galatians 4:4–5 NLT). The word buy used here means to purchase out of a slave market. This term would have been readily understood by people living in the first century, because slavery was still in practice. Jesus has redeemed us, which means He has given us our freedom.
He has given us freedom from the power of sin. The apostle Paul wrote, “Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin” (Romans 6:5–7 NLT). That doesn’t mean our potential to sin is gone. Temptation is still very much a part of the Christian’s life. In fact, it’s evidence of the Christian life. The devil attacks those who can do him harm. But through Christ, we have the power to resist.
Jesus has also given us freedom from the shame of sin. Paul also wrote, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death” (Romans 8:1–2 NLT). As Christians, we are no longer defined by who we used to be or what we once did. Instead, we’re defined by what the Lord has done for us.
God gives second chances. He offers a path forward, a joyous and fulfilling life—one that can make a profound difference in the world—no matter what we’ve done.
Reflection question: When has God given you a second chance? Discuss this with believers like you on Harvest Discipleship!
