Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the concept of adoption holds significant theological and spiritual meaning. It is a term that is used to describe the relationship between God and believers, illustrating the transformation from being outside of God's family to becoming His children through faith in Jesus Christ.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul is the primary biblical author who expounds on the theme of adoption. In his epistles, he uses the term to convey the profound change in status that occurs when a person becomes a follower of Christ. In Romans 8:15, Paul writes, "For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" . Here, the "Spirit of sonship" is synonymous with adoption, indicating a new relationship with God characterized by intimacy and belonging. Similarly, in Galatians 4:4-5, Paul states, "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons" . This passage highlights the redemptive work of Christ as the means by which believers are adopted into God's family. Spiritual Implications Adoption in the biblical sense is not merely a legal transaction but a transformative spiritual reality. It signifies a change in identity and status. Believers are no longer considered slaves to sin but are now children of God, with all the rights and privileges that come with being part of His family. This includes being heirs to the promises of God, as Paul notes in Romans 8:17: "And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him" . Theological Significance Theologically, adoption underscores the grace and love of God. It is an act initiated by God, independent of human merit. Ephesians 1:4-5 emphasizes this divine initiative: "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will" . This passage reveals that adoption is part of God's eternal plan, rooted in His love and sovereign will. Practical Application For believers, understanding their status as adopted children of God has practical implications for daily living. It provides assurance of God's love and acceptance, fostering a sense of security and identity. It also calls for a life that reflects the character of the Father, as children are expected to emulate their parent. In Ephesians 5:1, Paul exhorts, "Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children" . Furthermore, the concept of adoption encourages believers to embrace their spiritual family, the Church, and to live in unity and love with fellow believers. It also serves as a reminder of the mission to share the message of reconciliation and adoption with others, inviting them to become part of God's family through faith in Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (imp. & p. p.) of Adopt.2. (a.) Taken by adoption; taken up as one's own; as, an adopted son, citizen, country, word. Greek 5387. philostorgos -- tenderly loving ... 5387 (" love, shown by ") is that special affection shared between members of -- people (divinely adopted) and serving the () ! ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5387.htm - 7k 2474. Israel -- Israel, the name of the Jewish people and their ... 4339. proselutos -- one who has arrived (at Judaism), a proselyte Strong's Hebrew 2388. chazaq -- to be or grow firm or strong, strengthen... root Definition to be or grow firm or strong, strengthen NASB Word Usage adopted (2), applied (1), became (1), became mighty (1), became powerful (1), became ... /hebrew/2388.htm - 8k Library Whether Christ as Man is the Adopted Son of God? Probably Adopted at a Council Held in Constantinople the Next Year ... Probably Adopted at a Council Held in Constantinople the Next Year ... Justa's Adopted Sons, Associates with Simon. Whether Legal Relationship is Contracted Only Between the Adopting ... Whether it is Proper to the Rational Nature to be Adopted? How Divers Churches of the Scots, at the Instance of Adamnan ... But Origen Also, You Will Tell Us, in Composing his Work Called ... Argument: Octavius Attests the Fact that Men were Adopted as Gods ... Virginity a Gift of God: the Purpose of Virginity not Rashly to be ... Thesaurus Adopted (10 Occurrences)... 1. (imp. & pp) of Adopt. 2. (a.) Taken by adoption; taken up as one's own; as, an adopted son, citizen, country, word. ...Adopted (10 Occurrences). ... /a/adopted.htm - 9k Nephishesim (1 Occurrence) Easter (1 Occurrence) Adoption (5 Occurrences) Precious (128 Occurrences) Stones (244 Occurrences) Time (7245 Occurrences) Zerubbabel (25 Occurrences) Nephusim (1 Occurrence) Nephushesim (1 Occurrence) Resources What does it mean that Christians are adopted by God? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is adoptionism? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about adoption? | GotQuestions.org Adopted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Adopted (10 Occurrences)Acts 7:19 Acts 7:21 Acts 20:3 Romans 8:15 Ephesians 1:5 1 Kings 9:9 2 Chronicles 7:22 Esther 2:7 Esther 2:15 Psalms 106:35 Subtopics Related Terms |
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