Galatians 4:24

An allegory. An allegory is a narrative in which persons, things, and action have a metaphorical meaning, implied but not expressly stated. By this allegory Paul illustrates the status of spiritual slavery into which the Galatians have lapsed, which, in fact, they seem to have desired. The historical events were not allegorical when they took place, nor even when Moses recorded them. It is Paul who makes an allegory out of them, for the express purpose of illustrating the lesson of faith and freedom versus works and bondage. He does not say that these things were an allegory, but that they are one — that is, that he is making an allegory out of them as he relates the story. In Paul’s day this method of discourse was common. Compare the use of parables so common in Jesus’ teaching (see Vol. V, pp. 203, 204). One of the most effective ways to communicate truth is to illustrate it by an appropriate and interesting story.

Two covenants. One was the covenant of faith, represented by Sarah; the other, the covenant of “works,” represented by Hagar (see on Eze. 16:60; Gal. 3:15, 17-19; Heb. 8:8-10).

Mount Sinai. See on Ex. 19:5-8; 24:7, 8.

Gendereth to bondage. Literally, “bears [children] into bondage.” As long as a man depends upon works of law to save him, there is no escape from bondage. In spite of all that he may do to earn salvation he can never succeed. He has obligated himself to perform an impossible task. Legalism, the letter of the law — any law — kills (see on 2 Cor. 3:6).