Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, as a theological concept, finds its typification in the history and practices of ancient Israel. The notion of adoption in the biblical context extends beyond the legal and familial aspects, encompassing spiritual and covenantal dimensions that prefigure the New Testament understanding of believers being adopted into the family of God.Adoption in the Patriarchal Narratives The patriarchal narratives provide early examples of adoption-like practices. In Genesis 48, Jacob adopts his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, as his own. This act is significant as it grants them a share in the inheritance of Israel, elevating them to the status of Jacob's direct sons. Jacob declares, "Now your two sons, who were born to you in the land of Egypt before I came to you in Egypt, are mine; Ephraim and Manasseh shall be mine, just as Reuben and Simeon are mine" (Genesis 48:5). This adoption not only secures their place in the tribal structure of Israel but also symbolizes the inclusion of those who were outside the immediate family line into the covenantal promises. Moses and the Royal Adoption The account of Moses provides another typological example of adoption. Moses, born a Hebrew, is adopted by Pharaoh's daughter and raised as her own son within the Egyptian royal household (Exodus 2:10). This adoption is pivotal, as it positions Moses to later become the deliverer of Israel. His dual identity as both a Hebrew and an Egyptian prince foreshadows the believer's dual identity as both a member of the earthly realm and a citizen of the heavenly kingdom. Adoption and the Davidic Covenant The Davidic Covenant further illustrates the theme of adoption. God promises David that He will establish the throne of his offspring forever, saying, "I will be his Father, and he will be My son" (2 Samuel 7:14). This covenantal promise is not merely about biological descent but signifies a divine adoption, where the king is regarded as God's son. This typology points forward to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Son of David, who embodies the perfect Sonship and brings believers into the family of God through adoption. Adoption in the Prophetic Literature The prophets also echo the theme of adoption, particularly in the context of Israel's restoration. Hosea speaks of God's love for Israel, saying, "When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called My son" (Hosea 11:1). This imagery of Israel as God's son underscores the nation's chosen status and the intimate relationship God desires with His people. It prefigures the New Testament revelation of believers being called out of spiritual bondage into the freedom of sonship through Christ. Adoption and the New Covenant The typology of adoption in Israel finds its ultimate expression in the New Covenant, where believers are adopted as sons and daughters of God through faith in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul articulates this profound truth, stating, "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!'" (Romans 8:15). This adoption is not merely a legal transaction but a transformative relationship, granting believers the rights and privileges of being God's children. In summary, the typification of adoption in Israel serves as a rich tapestry that illustrates God's redemptive plan, culminating in the spiritual adoption of believers into His eternal family. Through the narratives of the patriarchs, the royal lineage, and the prophetic promises, the theme of adoption weaves through the Old Testament, pointing to the fulfillment of God's promise in Christ. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 4:22And you shall say to Pharaoh, Thus said the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: Nave's Topical Index Library Perfect Righteousness was Conferred Neither by Circumcision nor by ... The Consolation CHAP. I. -II. 3 (II. 1). The Difference Between the Two Testaments. Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna P??dobaptism. Its Accordance with the Institution of Christ, and ... Index of Subjects. On the Offices of Our Lord Jesus Christ Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals. Resources What does it mean that Christians are adopted by God? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I recover from a failed adoption? | GotQuestions.org Having Children ' Article Index | 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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