Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ContextAdoption, in a biblical context, refers to the act of God by which believers are received into His family as His children. This concept is deeply rooted in the New Testament and is a significant aspect of Christian theology, illustrating the transformation of believers' status from outsiders to members of God's household. Biblical Foundation The concept of adoption is primarily found in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In the Greco-Roman world, adoption was a legal procedure that granted an adopted child the same rights and privileges as a biological child. Paul uses this cultural understanding to explain the spiritual reality of believers' relationship with God. Key Scriptures 1. Romans 8:15-17: "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 intimate relationship believers have with God through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the transition from fear to a familial bond with God as Father. 2. Galatians 4:4-7: "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." Here, Paul explains that through Christ's redemptive work, believers are adopted as sons and daughters, receiving the Spirit of Christ and becoming heirs of God's promises. 3. Ephesians 1:4-5: "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 underscores the divine initiative and love in the process of adoption, indicating that it was part of God's eternal plan for believers. Theological Significance Adoption is a profound expression of God's grace and love. It signifies a change in identity and status, where believers are no longer seen as strangers or enemies but as beloved children of God. This new identity comes with privileges, such as being heirs to God's promises, and responsibilities, such as living in a manner worthy of their calling. Spiritual Implications 1. Identity and Assurance: Adoption provides believers with a secure identity as children of God, offering assurance of their salvation and eternal inheritance. 2. Intimacy with God: Through adoption, believers have the privilege of addressing God as "Abba, Father," reflecting a close and personal relationship with Him. 3. Unity in the Body of Christ: Adoption emphasizes the unity of all believers as members of God's family, transcending ethnic, social, and cultural barriers. 4. Moral and Ethical Living: As children of God, believers are called to reflect their Father's character, living holy and blameless lives in gratitude for their adoption. Practical Application Understanding adoption encourages believers to live with confidence in their identity in Christ, fostering a deeper relationship with God and a commitment to His purposes. It also inspires a sense of belonging and community within the church, motivating believers to support and love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 6:18And will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, said the Lord Almighty. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Third Proposition of Arminius Texts Explained; Sixthly, the Context of Proverbs viii. 22 Vz. 22 ... Texts Explained; and First... Texts Explained; Eighthly, John xvii. 3 and the Like. Our Lord's ... Texts Explained; Sixthly... Texts Explained; Secondly, Psalm Xlv. 7, 8 Whether the Words ... Adoption --The Spirit and the Cry Texts Explained; Ninthly... Of the Five Sacraments, Falsely So Called. Their Spuriousness ... Election Confirmed by the Calling of God. The Reprobate Bring Upon ... Resources What is conditional election? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Family & Parenting (All) | GotQuestions.org Unconditional election - is it biblical? | 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 |
    |