Topical Bible: Adoption: Entitles to an Inheritance

◄ Adoption: Entitles to an Inheritance ►

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Adoption, within the biblical context, is a profound theological concept that signifies the believer's transition from a state of alienation from God to becoming a member of His family. This spiritual adoption is not merely a change in status but also an entitlement to a divine inheritance, as outlined in the Scriptures.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of adoption is primarily found in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul uses the term to describe the believer's new relationship with God through Jesus Christ. In Romans 8:15-17 , 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!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 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 passage highlights the transformation from fear and bondage to a familial relationship with God, characterized by intimacy and assurance. The term "Abba" reflects a deep, personal connection, akin to calling God "Father." The believer's adoption is confirmed by the Holy Spirit, who assures them of their status as God's children and their entitlement to His promises.

Entitlement to an Inheritance

The notion of inheritance is central to the biblical understanding of adoption. As adopted children, believers are not only brought into God's family but are also made heirs to His kingdom. Galatians 4:4-7 further elucidates this: "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. And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!' So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God."

This inheritance is not merely material or temporal but encompasses the fullness of God's promises, including eternal life, righteousness, and a share in Christ's glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 speaks of the Holy Spirit as a "deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of His glory."

Theological Implications

Theologically, adoption underscores the grace and sovereignty of God in salvation. It is an act initiated by God, independent of human merit, reflecting His love and purpose. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "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 divine initiative assures believers of their secure position in God's family, providing comfort and hope. The inheritance promised is both a present reality and a future hope, motivating believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling.

Practical Application

Understanding adoption as entitling believers to an inheritance has practical implications for Christian living. It fosters a sense of identity and belonging, encouraging believers to live as children of God, reflecting His character and values. It also instills hope and perseverance, as believers anticipate the full realization of their inheritance in the life to come.

Moreover, this understanding calls the Christian community to reflect God's adoptive love by welcoming and supporting those who are marginalized or without family, mirroring the spiritual adoption they have received.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 13:43
Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who has ears to hear, let him hear.
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Romans 8:17
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
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Galatians 3:29
And if you be Christ's, then are you Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
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Galatians 4:7
Why you are no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
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Ephesians 3:6
That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
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Library

The Sovereignty of God in Salvation
... was that they should "obtain an inheritance." Here also ... that He predestinated us
unto the adoption of children ... attributed to the creature which entitles him to ...
/.../pink/the sovereignty of god/chapter four the sovereignty of.htm

Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of ...
... of doctrine, but it has been through the adoption of his ... 2) his position entitles
him to speak. ... Amid these shipwrecks of faith, when our inheritance of the ...
/.../introduction chapter i the life and.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... Take the treatise which he entitles "On the best mode of translating," though there
is nothing in it except the addition of the title which is of the best, for ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /