Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, in the biblical context, signifies the gracious and loving act of God by which believers are brought into His family as His children. This spiritual adoption is a profound privilege and a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting the believer's new identity and relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The concept of adoption is not only a theological truth but also a reality to be embraced and pleaded in prayer.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul articulates the doctrine of adoption most clearly in his epistles. 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 verse highlights the intimate relationship believers have with God, characterized by the term "Abba," an Aramaic word for father, denoting closeness and affection. Similarly, in Galatians 4:4-5, Paul states, "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" . This passage underscores the redemptive work of Christ as the basis for our adoption, emphasizing that it is through Him that believers are granted the status of sons and daughters of God. Adoption in Prayer The privilege of adoption should be a central element in the believer's prayer life. Recognizing oneself as a child of God transforms the way one approaches prayer, fostering a sense of confidence and assurance. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" . This boldness in prayer is rooted in the believer's status as an adopted child of God. In prayer, believers are invited to plead their adoption, reminding themselves of their identity and the promises that come with it. This includes the assurance of God's love, care, and provision. As children of God, believers can bring their requests before Him, trusting in His fatherly wisdom and goodness. The Spirit's Role The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's experience of adoption. Romans 8:16 affirms, "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children" . The Spirit not only confirms our status as God's children but also aids us in prayer. In times of weakness or uncertainty, the Spirit intercedes for us, as described in Romans 8:26-27, ensuring that our prayers align with God's will. Implications for the Believer Understanding and pleading adoption in prayer has several implications for the believer. It fosters a deep sense of belonging and security, knowing that one is part of God's eternal family. It also encourages a life of holiness and obedience, as children are called to reflect the character of their Heavenly Father. Furthermore, it inspires believers to extend the love and grace they have received to others, recognizing that all who are in Christ share this familial bond. In summary, the doctrine of adoption is a profound truth that should permeate the believer's prayer life. By pleading their adoption, believers affirm their identity in Christ, draw near to God with confidence, and live out the implications of being His beloved children. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 63:16Doubtless you are our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: you, O LORD, are our father, our redeemer; your name is from everlasting. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 6:9 Library "Nothing is Impossible to Industry, "Said one of the Seven Sages ... Appendix iv the Scotch Service-Book Why they Leave Us The Elizabethan Reaction Constant, Instant, Expectant "Let us Pray" The Holy Spirit's Intercession The First Cry from the Cross Protest of the Princes. Protest of the Princes 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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