Definition: Adoption is the free act of God in which He makes those who respond to His grace members of His family, designating them for participation in Himself and bestowing on them rights to the inheritance of Christ.

Scriptures: Ephesians 1:5; John 1:12; Ephesians 2:3-7

Study: Paul’s favorite word to use when talking about our actual state in salvation is the word adoption. Paul emphasizes our relational standing rather than just a legal status. It is our status as children of God that sets us apart from the world and gives cause to our justification. Adoption is the underlying purpose to salvation—God wanted children for Himself from rebellious mankind and so sent His Son to purchase us and His Spirit to seal us. We are children of God first and foremost. God does not look at you and see a sinful person saved only by His mercy. God sees you as His very own—you are in the same place as His own Son! All the blessings and privileges of Christ are now yours in Him!

Questions to Ask: (these will help process the truth learned)

- Who is the originator of our adoption?

- Does your adoption depend on you in any way?

- What rights do you have as a child of God?