Viewed theologically, however, it may also be said that the time was full because God himself had filled it with meaning. 5 Specifically, God sent his Son “to redeem” those who were under the law’s bondage and to provide the basis by which God is able “to adopt” them as sons. Men are in need of both actions. Redemption is mentioned here for the first time since 3:13 and is particulary appropriate in view of the imagery Paul is using. Redemption means “to buy out of slavery” (cf. note on 3:13). Men