Who is Paul referring to in Galatians 4:8-9?
Paul refers to his converts who had formerly been steeped in paganism, idolatry, mythology, and idol worship. They had come out of darkness and stepped into the light of Paul’s gospel. He addresses former pagans, whose world was steeped in mythological ritual, services, and idol worship.
Les explains that Paul is using the same analogy and same word that Israel was steeped in with its system of worship, because the pagans were doing much the same through ritual and services. Paul’s converts had come religiously from paganism; the whole world around him was steeped in paganism, mythology, and idol worship. So in verse 8 he refers to these people recently steeped in idolatry and paganism, who had now come out of darkness and stepped into the light of Paul’s gospel. Les also connects this with Athens, where Paul saw a row of idols and one titled to the unknown God, showing that superstition is man’s fear of and opposition to evil powers, not man seeking God.
Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
More Questions
What word does Paul use in Galatians 4:8 that he also used in Romans?
The word 'service' Paul uses in Galatians 4:8 is the same word he used back in Romans (Romans 9:4).
What is the key word that connects Galatians 4:8 with Romans 9:4?
The word under discussion is 'service'—the same word Paul used in Romans for the sanctuary service.