Topical Encyclopedia In Christian theology, the concept of adoption refers to the gracious and loving act of God by which believers are brought into His family as His children. This spiritual adoption is both a present reality and a future hope, as believers await the final consummation of their adoption at the return of Christ.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul provides a foundational understanding of adoption in his epistles. In Romans 8:23 , Paul writes, "And not only this, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." Here, Paul acknowledges that while believers have already received the Spirit of adoption, there is an aspect of this adoption that is yet to be fulfilled—the redemption of their bodies. Similarly, in Ephesians 1:5 , Paul states, "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This verse highlights that adoption is part of God's eternal plan, accomplished through Jesus Christ, and is a source of spiritual blessing for believers. Present Reality and Future Hope The present reality of adoption is experienced through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who testifies to the believer's status as a child of God. Romans 8:15-16 affirms, "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." However, the full realization of this adoption is eschatological, meaning it will be fully consummated in the future. The "redemption of our bodies" mentioned in Romans 8:23 refers to the resurrection and glorification of believers, when they will be completely transformed and conformed to the image of Christ. This future hope is a source of encouragement and perseverance for believers as they navigate the trials and sufferings of this present age. Theological Implications The doctrine of adoption underscores the intimate relationship between God and believers. It assures them of their identity and inheritance as children of God, as stated in Galatians 4:6-7 : "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." This inheritance includes eternal life, the kingdom of God, and the promise of being co-heirs with Christ. The anticipation of the final consummation of adoption motivates believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, as they look forward to the day when they will fully experience the glory and freedom of the children of God. Practical Application Understanding the doctrine of adoption encourages believers to live with hope and assurance, knowing that their future is secure in Christ. It also fosters a sense of unity and love within the body of Christ, as all believers share the same status as adopted children of God. This shared identity calls for mutual support, encouragement, and the pursuit of holiness as they await the glorious fulfillment of their adoption. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 8:19,23For the earnest expectation of the creature waits for the manifestation of the sons of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 3:2 Library Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: Nature of Covenanting. The Second vision "On Earth" St. Gregory the Great. 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 |
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