Topical Encyclopedia Adoption, in the biblical context, is a profound theological concept that signifies the believer's entrance into the family of God. This spiritual adoption is intricately connected with the concept of the new birth, or being "born again," which is essential for becoming a child of God.The New Testament provides a clear understanding of adoption through 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 passage highlights the transformation from a state of fear and bondage to one of intimate relationship with God as Father, made possible through the Holy Spirit. The new birth, as described by Jesus in John 3:3, is a prerequisite for entering the kingdom of God: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" . This rebirth is a spiritual regeneration, a work of the Holy Spirit, that brings about a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is through this new birth that believers are adopted into God's family. Galatians 4:4-7 further elucidates this connection: "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. 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" . Here, the redemptive work of Christ is shown as the foundation for adoption, with the new birth being the means by which believers receive the Spirit and are able to call God "Father." Ephesians 1:5 also speaks to God's eternal plan for adoption: "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will" . This verse underscores the divine initiative and grace involved in adoption, emphasizing that it is through Jesus Christ that believers are brought into this familial relationship with God. The connection between adoption and the new birth is further illustrated 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 declaration of divine love and identity as God's children is a result of the new birth, which enables believers to live as members of God's family. In summary, adoption in the biblical sense is a transformative act of grace, whereby believers, through the new birth, are brought into a familial relationship with God. This adoption is made possible by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and is affirmed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who testifies to our status as children and heirs of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 1:12,13But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... Effects of Baptism and of Chrism. Sons and Heirs Concerning the Holy and Immaculate Mysteries of the Lord. God Rejoicing in the New Creation The Doctrine of the Church. The Sovereignty of God in Salvation Alive or Dead --Which? Justifying or Sanctifying Grace The Pentateuch. 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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