Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, as a concept within the biblical narrative, is a profound demonstration of God's providence and grace, often serving as a means to fulfill His divine purposes. The account of Moses is a quintessential illustration of adoption in the Bible, showcasing how God orchestrates circumstances to bring about His plans for His people.Moses' Early Life and Adoption Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament, was born during a time of great peril for the Israelites in Egypt. The Pharaoh, fearing the growing population of the Hebrews, decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys were to be killed (Exodus 1:22). In this dire context, Moses' mother, Jochebed, sought to preserve his life by placing him in a basket along the banks of the Nile River. The providential hand of God is evident as Pharaoh's daughter discovers the basket. Moved with compassion, she decides to adopt the child as her own, despite knowing he was a Hebrew (Exodus 2:5-6). This act of adoption not only saves Moses' life but also positions him uniquely within the Egyptian royal household, providing him with an education and upbringing that would later be instrumental in his leadership. Scriptural Account The account of Moses' adoption is succinctly captured in Exodus 2:10 : "When the child grew older, she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses, saying, 'I drew him out of the water.'" This verse highlights the dual identity Moses carried throughout his life—born a Hebrew, yet raised as an Egyptian prince. His name, Moses, meaning "drawn out," is emblematic of his life's journey and mission, as he would later draw the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Theological Implications Moses' adoption is not merely a historical event but carries deep theological significance. It illustrates God's sovereignty and His ability to use unexpected means to accomplish His will. Through adoption, Moses was placed in a position where he could later confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites to freedom, fulfilling God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moreover, Moses' account prefigures the spiritual adoption that believers experience through Christ. Just as Moses was drawn out of the water and given a new identity, Christians are drawn out of sin and death, adopted into God's family, and given a new identity in Christ (Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:5). Moses' Dual Heritage Moses' adoption also underscores the theme of dual heritage. Raised in the Egyptian court, he was familiar with the culture, language, and politics of Egypt, yet he never lost his connection to his Hebrew roots. This duality equipped him uniquely for his role as a mediator between God and His people, and as a leader who could navigate both the Egyptian and Hebrew worlds. Conclusion The adoption of Moses is a powerful narrative that demonstrates God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of adoption, both in the physical and spiritual realms, and the ways in which God can use individuals from diverse backgrounds to fulfill His purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 2:10And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she called his name Moses: and she said, Because I drew him out of the water. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... Adoption --The Spirit and the Cry On the Comparison of the Law and the Gospel Of Prayer Influences that Gave Rise to the Priestly Laws and Histories The Doctrine of the Apostolic Church "Nothing is Impossible to Industry, "Said one of the Seven Sages ... The Judges. Of the Eternal Election, by which God Has Predestinated Some to ... Introduction to the De Trinitate. Resources What does it mean that Christians are adopted by God? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I recover from a failed adoption? | GotQuestions.org Having Children ' Article Index | 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 |