2 They are under the care of guardians and those who manage the property. They are under their care until the time when their fathers give them the property.
3 It is the same with us. When we were children, we were slaves to the basic things the people of the world believe.
4 But then the right time came. God sent his Son. A woman gave birth to him. He was born under the authority of the law.
5 He came to set free those who were under the law. He wanted us to be adopted as children with all the rights children have.
6 Because you are his children, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts. He is the Holy Spirit. By his power we call God "[Abba.]" Abba means Father.
7 So you aren't slaves any longer. You are God's children. Because you are his children, he gives you what he promised to give his people.
8 At one time you didn't know God. You were slaves to gods that are really not gods at all.