[d]Group Questions

1. What old masters still know your name?
   Read Galatians 4:4–11. Paul reminds the Galatians that they are no longer slaves but sons and daughters, yet they’re tempted to return to slavery. Where are you most tempted to go back—approval, control, performance, shame, self-reliance, an old habit or coping mechanism? According to verses 4–7, what truth about your identity helps you resist going back?

2. What is forming you?
   Read Galatians 4:17–19. Paul contrasts the influence of the false teachers with his desire to see “Christ formed in you.” What voices, habits, relationships, media, fears, or desires are having the greatest influence on who you are becoming right now? What would need to change for Christ to increasingly be formed in you?

3. Where are you taking control and calling it “wisdom” because it seems like God isn’t moving fast enough?
   Read Galatians 4:21–31 and, if time allows, Genesis 16:1–6. Abraham and Sarah tried to accomplish through human effort what God had promised to provide. Where are you tempted to do the same? What is the next step forward in obedience and trust rather than returning to slavery or taking control?

Prayer Prompt

Read Galatians 4:6–7 and 4:19. Thank God that you are no longer a slave but His son or daughter. Ask the Spirit to reveal any old master you’re returning to, anything that is forming you more than Jesus, or any area where you’re trying to control what you need to entrust to God. Then pray specifically for Christ to be formed in you as you take your next step of obedience.