²⁴ Not that we lord it over^(A) your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.^(B)

⁴ This matter arose because some false believers^(A) had infiltrated our ranks to spy on^(B) the freedom^(C) we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.

³ So also, when we were underage, we were in slavery^(A) under the elemental spiritual forces^[a] of the world.^(B)

⁹ But now that you know God—or rather are known by God^(A)—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces^[a]? Do you wish to be enslaved^(B) by them all over again?^(C)

Freedom in Christ

5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.^(A) Stand firm,^(B) then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.^(C)