Why does Paul use the same word for service that Israel used in its worship?
Paul uses the same term for service because the pagans' idolatrous rituals closely paralleled Israel's worship system. Both involved ritual and service. His converts came from paganism, so he applies the familiar word to describe their former idolatry and their new knowledge of God.
Les explains that when Paul was in Athens, he saw idols and an altar to the unknown god, and he called the people too superstitious, meaning they feared evil powers rather than seeking God. Paul then uses the same analogy and the same word that Israel was steeped in with their system of worship, because the pagans were doing much the same—ritual and services. Paul's converts had come out of paganism, mythology, and idol worship, and now, having known God, they are addressed in Galatians 4:9. So Paul employs the familiar term for service to connect their former religious rituals with Israel's worship system, showing the parallel and their coming out of darkness into the light of his gospel.
More Questions
How are Israel's worship system and pagan worship similar according to Paul?
Paul uses the same analogy and word for Israel's system of worship and pagan ritual services because the pagans were doing much the same.