How should being "adopted through Jesus Christ" influence our daily Christian walk? Ephesians 1:5—The Foundation of Our Adoption “He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will”. • Adoption is a deliberate, legal act of God—He chose us. • It happens “through Jesus Christ,” anchoring our identity in His finished work, not our performance. • The Father’s “good pleasure” means our place in His family is His joyful intent, not grudging tolerance. Daily Assurance of Our Identity • No more spiritual orphanhood—Romans 8:15: “You received the Spirit of adoption…” • Shame and insecurity lose their hold; we belong. • Self-worth is rooted in God’s declaration, not shifting feelings or human approval. Intimate Access to the Father • Hebrews 4:16 invites us to “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” • Prayer becomes family conversation, not formal negotiation. • Every need, fear, plan, and praise can be shared freely because the door is always open. Motivation for Holiness • 1 Peter 1:14-16 reminds us that children resemble their Father: “Be holy, because I am holy.” • Obedience flows from family likeness, not legalistic pressure. • Sin loses appeal when we remember whose name we bear. Family Resemblance—Reflecting the Father • Ephesians 5:1: “Be imitators of God, as beloved children.” • Compassion, forgiveness, and sacrificial love mirror His heart (Ephesians 4:32; John 13:34-35). • The Spirit empowers transformation so our character matches our calling. Unity with the Family of God • Ephesians 2:19: “You are…members of God’s household.” • Racial, social, and economic barriers crumble inside the Father’s house. • Choosing forgiveness, service, and mutual honor demonstrates true family life (Colossians 3:12-14). Bold Witness to the World • 2 Corinthians 5:20: “We are ambassadors for Christ.” • Adopted children naturally talk about their Father—testimony springs from gratitude. • Integrity, joy, and hope validate the gospel we proclaim. Certain Inheritance and Future Hope • Romans 8:17: “If we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” • Earthly trials shrink beside guaranteed glory (1 Peter 1:3-4). • Hope steadies us during suffering, knowing family inheritance cannot be lost or stolen. Overflow of Gratitude and Joy • Ephesians 1:6: our adoption exists “to the praise of His glorious grace.” • Daily thanksgiving—spoken, sung, and lived—keeps our focus on the Giver. • Joy fuels perseverance; complaining fades when we remember we’ve been welcomed home. |
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