Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, in the biblical context, refers to the act of God by which believers are received into His family as His children. This spiritual adoption is a profound theme in Scripture, illustrating the transformation of believers' status and relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.Old Testament Context While the specific term "adoption" is not explicitly used in the Old Testament, the concept is present in the idea of God choosing and calling Israel as His own people. In Exodus 4:22, God refers to Israel as His "firstborn son," indicating a special relationship akin to adoption. This divine selection underscores the notion of belonging and identity bestowed by God. New Testament Revelation The New Testament provides a fuller revelation of adoption, particularly through the writings of the Apostle Paul. 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!'" This passage highlights the intimate relationship believers have with God, characterized by freedom and familial closeness. Galatians 4:4-5 further elaborates on this theme: "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." Here, adoption is linked to the redemptive work of Christ, emphasizing that believers are brought into God's family through His sacrificial act. Ephesians 1:5 also speaks to this divine purpose: "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This verse underscores the intentional and gracious nature of God's plan, highlighting that adoption is part of His eternal purpose for believers. Spiritual Implications Adoption carries significant spiritual implications for believers. It signifies a change in status from being outside of God's family to becoming His children, with all the rights and privileges that accompany this new identity. Romans 8:17 states, "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." This inheritance includes eternal life and the promise of sharing in Christ's glory. Furthermore, adoption assures believers of God's love and care. In 1 John 3:1, the apostle marvels at this reality: "Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God." This love is not based on human merit but on God's grace and mercy. Practical Outworking The doctrine of adoption also has practical implications for the believer's life. It calls for a response of gratitude, obedience, and a desire to reflect the character of the Father. As children of God, believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, as seen in Ephesians 5:1: "Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children." Moreover, adoption into God's family creates a new community among believers, who are now brothers and sisters in Christ. This spiritual kinship fosters unity, love, and mutual support within the body of Christ, as encouraged in passages like Galatians 6:10: "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith." In summary, the biblical concept of adoption reveals the depth of God's love and the transformative power of His grace, bringing believers into a new and eternal relationship with Him as His beloved children. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 15:3And Abram said, Behold, to me you have given no seed: and, see, one born in my house is my heir. Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning the Scriptures. General Corruption. On Divine Predestination How Two Natures Constitute the Person of the Mediator. The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... The Formation of the Old Testament Canon The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. The General Conference of 1820 The First Delegated General Conference of 1812 Resources What is the Spirit of adoption (Romans 8:15)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible have to say about gay adoption? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about adoption? | GotQuestions.org Adoption: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Adoption is According to Promise Adoption is to be Pleaded in Prayer Adoption of Gentiles, Predicted Adoption: A Privilege of Saints Adoption: Being Led by the Spirit is an Evidence of Adoption: Entitles to an Inheritance Adoption: General Scriptures Concerning Adoption: God is Patience and Merciful Towards the Partakers of Adoption: Illustrated: Joseph's Sons Adoption: New Birth Connected With Adoption: Safety of Those Who Receive Adoption: Saints Become Brethren of Christ By Adoption: Saints Predestinated To Adoption: Saints Receive the Spirit of Adoption: Saints Wait for Final Consummation of Adoption: should Lead to Holiness Adoption: should Produce a Desire for God's Glory Adoption: should Produce a Forgiving Spirit Adoption: should Produce a Love of Peace Adoption: should Produce a Merciful Spirit Adoption: should Produce a Spirit of Prayer Adoption: should Produce an Avoidance of Ostentation Adoption: should Produce Child-Like Confidence in God Adoption: should Produce Likeness to God Adoption: Subjects Saints to the Fatherly Discipline of God Adoption: The Adopted are Gathered Together in One by Christ Adoption: The Holy Spirit is a Witness of Related Terms |
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