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 transformation that carries with it the expectation of a new way of living, characterized by the fruits of the Spirit, including a love of peace.Biblical Foundation of Adoption The concept of adoption is rooted in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul speaks extensively about believers being adopted into the family of God. 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, akin to that of a child with a loving parent. Adoption and the Love of Peace As adopted children of God, believers are called to emulate the character of their Heavenly Father, who is described as the "God of peace" (Philippians 4:9). The transformation that occurs through adoption should naturally lead to a love of peace, as believers are conformed to the image of Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). In Ephesians 2:14-18, Paul explains that Christ Himself is our peace, having broken down the dividing wall of hostility and reconciling us to God through the cross. This reconciliation is not only vertical, between humanity and God, but also horizontal, among individuals. As members of God's family, believers are called to be peacemakers, reflecting the peace they have received through Christ. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's adoption and the subsequent love of peace. Galatians 5:22-23 lists peace as one of the fruits of the Spirit, indicating that a life led by the Spirit will naturally produce peace. The Spirit empowers believers to live in harmony with others, promoting unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ. Practical Implications The love of peace that stems from adoption has practical implications for the believer's life. In Romans 12:18, Paul exhorts, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone" . This command underscores the believer's responsibility to pursue peace actively, even in challenging circumstances. Furthermore, Hebrews 12:14 encourages believers to "pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord" . This pursuit of peace is not passive but requires intentional effort and a heart transformed by the love of God. Conclusion Adoption into God's family is a transformative experience that should produce a love of peace in the believer's life. As children of the God of peace, believers are called to reflect His character by living in harmony with others and actively pursuing peace in all relationships. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, this love of peace becomes a defining characteristic of those who have been adopted into the family of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 5:9Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Women as Well as Men, Slaves as Well as Freemen, Candidates for ... The Instructor Characterized by the Severity and Benignity of ... A More Particular view of the Several Branches of the Christian ... An Account of the Several Annual Conferences, and of the General ... The Angel's Message and Song The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... The General Conference of 1820 On Christian Liberty The General Conference of 1828 CHAP. I. -II. 3 (II. 1). 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 |
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