Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Adoption, 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 References: The concept of adoption is primarily found in the writings of the Apostle Paul. 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, akin to that of a child with a loving parent. In Galatians 4:4-5, Paul further explains, "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" . Here, adoption is linked to the redemptive work of Christ, emphasizing that it is through Jesus' sacrifice that believers are brought into God's family. Ephesians 1:5 also speaks to this divine act: "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will" . This passage underscores the intentional and gracious nature of God's plan for believers, highlighting adoption as part of His divine purpose. 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 slaves to sin but as children of God, with all the rights and privileges that come with this new identity. This includes being heirs to God's promises and having a personal relationship with Him. The concept of adoption also reflects the inclusivity of the Gospel. It demonstrates that God's family is open to all who believe in Christ, regardless of their background or previous status. This is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and the universal reach of God's love. Practical Implications: For believers, understanding their adoption into God's family can have a profound impact on their spiritual lives. It provides assurance of God's love and acceptance, fostering a sense of belonging and identity. This understanding encourages believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting the character of their heavenly Father. Moreover, the concept of adoption can inspire Christians to engage in acts of love and service, mirroring the grace they have received. It can also motivate believers to support and participate in earthly adoption and foster care, seeing these acts as reflections of the spiritual adoption they have experienced. Conclusion: While the entry does not include a conclusion, the exploration of adoption in the Bible reveals its central role in the Christian understanding of salvation and identity. Through adoption, believers are assured of their place in God's family, a truth that shapes their lives and relationships both with God and with others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To take by choice into relationship, as, child, heir, friend, citizen, etc.; esp. to take voluntarily (a child of other parents) to be in the place of, or as, one's own child.2. (v. t.) To take or receive as one's own what is not so naturally; to select and take or approve; as, to adopt the view or policy of another; these resolutions were adopted. Greek 337. anaireo -- to take up, take away, make an end ... From ana and (the active of) haireomai; to take up, ie Adopt; by implication, to take away (violently), ie Abolish, murder -- put to death, kill, slay, take ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/337.htm - 7k 5426. phroneo -- to have understanding, to think Library It Will be Better to Adopt in this ChapterThe Same Process that ... Whether it is Fitting that God Should Adopt Sons? Simon's Disciples Adopt the Mysteries; Simon Meets St. Peter at ... The Motive that Led Men to Adopt Darwinism. Whether it is Fitting that the Whole Trinity Should Adopt? Those who are Taught the Civil Laws must not Adopt the Customs of ... What Human Contrivances we are to Adopt, and what we are to Avoid. The Heresy of Carpocrates; Wicked Doctrines Concerning Jesus ... The Sethians Support their Doctrines by an Allegorical ... The Order and Process of Healing Our Heavenly Physician Does not ... Thesaurus Adopt (4 Occurrences)... 2. (vt) To take or receive as one's own what is not so naturally; to select and take or approve; as, to adopt the view or policy of another; these resolutions ... /a/adopt.htm - 7k Take (11064 Occurrences) Adopted (10 Occurrences) Literature (2 Occurrences) Kindness (295 Occurrences) Jaaziel (1 Occurrence) Galatians (2 Occurrences) Gamaliel (7 Occurrences) Father (11359 Occurrences) Follow (267 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about adoption? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible have to say about gay adoption? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say anything about acculturation? | GotQuestions.org Adopt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Adopt (4 Occurrences)Acts 16:21 Galatians 5:10 Ezra 10:44 Job 15:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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