Listen. In Paul’s day (the author of Galatians), only sons could inherit property from their parents. That is what makes his statement in Galatians 3:26-4:7 so radical: “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ … There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

No matter who you are, no matter your nationality, gender, or economic status, you can be a son of God and inherit all his promises. God originally made this promise to Abraham (see Genesis 12:1-3) and now through Jesus it is extended to us. There are three big promises: a forever home (heaven), a forever family (God becomes our Father, fellow believers in Jesus from all over the world become our brothers and sisters), and  a priceless treasure (Jesus himself). This is a gift that must be received by faith, otherwise it remains unopened. Faith is simply trust:

• We trust that Jesus is who he says he is. 
• We trust that Jesus will keep all of his promises to us. 
• We trust that when Jesus tells us something (or to not do something) it is in our interest to obey him. 

Trusting is incredibly difficult. That is why God gives us one more priceless gift. God sent the Holy Spirit into our hearts. He reminds us who are, and more importantly, who our Father is. (see Galatians 4:6, “abba” is Hebrew for “daddy”)

Respond. God has offered us a gift. This gift cannot be opened unless we respond in faith. Think about who we are putting our trust in. 

• Who does Jesus say that he is?
• What has he promised to us?
• Which of these promises stand out to you?
• What has Jesus asked us to do, or not do?
• What do you find most challenging?
• What difference does it make having the Holy Spirit living inside of us? 

This is now your opportunity to be personal and specific. 

• How will you open this gift this Christmas season by faith?
• What is one aspect of Jesus’ identity that you need to trust.
• What will change if you believe it?
• What are some of God’s promises that you need to believe?
• How will your life change if you trust them?
• What is Jesus challenging you to do or not do with your life? 

Share. What is something that you have learned from this lesson that you can share with someone in your life? Make a plan to share it with this person.