Topical Bible: Redemption: Procures for Us: Adoption

◄ Redemption: Procures for Us: Adoption ►

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Redemption, a central theme in Christian theology, refers to the act of being saved from sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. One of the profound outcomes of redemption is the believer's adoption into the family of God. This adoption is not merely a legal transaction but a transformative relationship that grants believers the status of children of God, with all the accompanying rights and privileges.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of adoption through redemption is rooted in several key passages of Scripture. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul articulates this truth with clarity and depth. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul writes, "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" (Galatians 4:4-5). Here, Paul emphasizes that the purpose of Christ's redemptive work was to enable believers to become sons and daughters of God.

Similarly, in the book of Romans, Paul elaborates on this theme: "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!'" (Romans 8:15). This passage highlights the intimate relationship believers now enjoy with God, characterized by the ability to address Him as "Abba," an Aramaic term denoting a close, personal relationship akin to "Daddy" or "Papa."

Theological Implications

Adoption through redemption signifies a profound change in the believer's identity and status. It is a divine act initiated by God's love and grace, as expressed in Ephesians 1:5: "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will" . This adoption is not based on human merit but solely on God's sovereign will and purpose.

As adopted children, believers are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, as stated in Romans 8:17: "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 inheritance includes eternal life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of future glory.

Practical Outworking

The reality of adoption through redemption has practical implications for the believer's life. It calls for a response of gratitude, obedience, and a commitment to live in a manner worthy of one's new identity as a child of God. The Apostle John exhorts believers in 1 John 3:1: "Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are!" . This recognition of divine love and adoption should inspire believers to reflect God's character in their daily lives.

Furthermore, the assurance of being God's children provides comfort and security, knowing that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39). This assurance empowers believers to face trials and challenges with confidence, rooted in their unshakeable relationship with their Heavenly Father.

In summary, redemption procures for believers the incredible privilege of adoption, transforming their relationship with God and granting them a new identity as His beloved children. This adoption is a testament to God's grace and love, offering believers both a present reality and a future hope.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Galatians 4:4,5
But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Gentile Christian Theology. Paul and the Gospel of Faith.
... for our sins, and thus effected our redemption (apolutrosis), as ... sends his Son, the
Son who procures salvation, and ... because in it is exhibited to us the love ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 71 the gentile christian.htm

On the Church and Its Head
... their sins, deploring their state, and expecting redemption. ... of the church herself,
let us now briefly ... church against her enemies, and procures likewise her ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 1/disputation 18 on the church.htm

The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive.
... taught with perfect truth, that no man procures favor with ... The next words are, "through
the redemption that is ... gifts which God has bestowed upon us, they are ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 14 the beginning of.htm

Matt. Iii. 7
... and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, and adoption ... exercise may
be easier, let us further enact ... loss, but reward,"such as procures some very ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily xi matt iii 7.htm

Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ...
... 1. Christ the Mediator of redemption; the saints ... the fruit of reconciliation by bringing
assistance to us. ... that general introduction which procures favour for ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of prayera perpetual.htm

Of Faith. The Definition of It. Its Peculiar Properties.
... the frequent mention in Scripture of redemption; from which ... is no faith until God
present us with clear ... of the election of her son Jacob, procures the blessing ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 2 of faith the.htm

Formula Concordi??.
... the chief articles of our faith (of Creation, of Redemption, of Sanctification ... From
these considerations which have been advanced by us, the distinction between ...
/.../schaff/the creeds of the evangelical protestant churches/formula concordiae.htm