Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  6000 Sin and salvation  »  6600 Aspects of salvation  »  6608 adoption  »  6610 adoption, descriptions of

The words used by the NT to describe believers point to their status and privileges as the adopted children of God.

Believers are no longer slaves but sons

Galatians 4:7-9 See also John 8:34-36; Romans 8:15; Phm 16

Believers are children of God

1 John 3:1-2 The title “child of God” is thought by some to be distinct from that of “son of God” (see below). “child” is thought to emphasise God's fatherhood, whilst “son” is thought to emphasise the Christian's privileges. These terms are however, sometimes used interchangeably. See also Luke 20:36; Romans 8:21; Philippians 2:15; 1 John 3:2; John 5:2

Believers are sons of God

Romans 8:14 See also Romans 9:26; Galatians 3:26

Believers are children of the resurrection

Luke 20:36

Believers are children of light, sons of light

John 12:36; Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5

Believers are heirs of God

Romans 8:17 See also Galatians 3:29; Galatians 4:7; Titus 3:7; Hebrews 6:17

Believers are brothers of Jesus Christ

Hebrews 2:11-12 See also Matthew 12:48-50; Romans 8:29; Hebrews 2:17

Believers are brothers of other believers

1 John 3:14 See also 1 John 4:19-20; Revelation 12:10; Revelation 19:10

Believers are members of God's household, his family

Ephesians 2:19 See also Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 3:2-6

See also

5680  family
5705  inheritance, spiritual
7140  people of God
8134  knowing God