Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, in the biblical context, refers to the gracious 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 both privileges and responsibilities, chief among them being the call to holiness.Biblical Foundation The concept of adoption is richly embedded in the New Testament, where it is portrayed as a divine act of grace. In Ephesians 1:5, the Apostle Paul writes, "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This passage highlights that adoption is part of God's eternal plan, executed through Jesus Christ, and is a testament to His love and purpose for believers. Privileges of Adoption Adoption bestows upon believers the status of children of God, with all the accompanying privileges. Romans 8:15-17 states, "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!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This passage emphasizes the intimate relationship believers have with God, characterized by the ability to address Him as "Abba, Father," and the assurance of being co-heirs with Christ. Call to Holiness With the privileges of adoption comes the responsibility to live a life that reflects the holiness of God. As children of God, believers are called to emulate the character of their Heavenly Father. 1 Peter 1:14-16 exhorts, "As obedient children, do not conform to the passions of your former ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness is a response to the transformative work of adoption, urging believers to forsake their former ways and pursue a life that honors God. Transformation Through the Spirit The process of becoming holy is not one of human effort alone but is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 4:6-7 declares, "And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!' So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God." The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is both a seal of our adoption and the means by which we are sanctified, enabling us to live in a manner worthy of our calling. Adoption and the Family of God Adoption into God's family also implies a new relationship with fellow believers. As members of the same spiritual family, Christians are called to love and support one another, reflecting the unity and love of the Godhead. Ephesians 2:19-22 describes this new community: "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord." Conclusion Adoption is a transformative act of grace that not only grants believers the status of children of God but also calls them to a life of holiness. Through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to live in a way that reflects their new identity, striving to be holy as God is holy, and fostering unity within the family of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 6:17,18Why come out from among them, and be you separate, said the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 7:1 Philippians 2:15 1 John 3:2,3 Library Adoption The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... Letter ix. Meditation. The Christian Struggling under Great and Heavy Affliction. The Doctrines of Grace do not Lead to Sin Christ's Resurrection and Our Newness of Life part i. Faith and Life "Let us Pray" Ephesians i. 2-Jan 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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