Galatians 4:7-9

Expanded Bible

⁷ So you are no longer a slave; you are God’s ·child [or son], and ·because you are his child, God will give you the blessing he promised [^Lif a son/child, then also an heir through God].

Paul’s Love for the Christians

⁸ In the past you did not know God. You were slaves to gods that were not real. ⁹ But now you know the true God. Really, it is God who knows you. So ·why do [^Lhow can] you turn back to those weak and ·useless [bankrupt; ^Lpoor] ·rules [or spiritual forces; or elementary principles/powers; v. 3] you followed before? Do you want to be slaves to those things again?