The Divine Call: Understanding the Doctrine of Adoption in Christianity
Key Takeaways
Understanding adoption in Christianity begins with a recognition of our need for divine grace due to our natural state.
The process of spiritual adoption is profoundly costly, attained through the sacrificial offering of Jesus Christ.
The results of adoption include intimate fellowship with God and a new familial bond within the Christian community.
The journey through Galatians offers a profound insight into the transformative doctrine of adoption within Christianity. Pastor Sam Kraemer, through his unequivocal passion and deep theological insight, illuminates the significance of adoption as described by the Apostle Paul. On this spiritual path, believers transition from being "enemies of God" to cherished members of God's family. This ambitious exploration of theological principles through Galatians presents both a challenge and an opportunity to deepen our faith as we unravel the complexities of spiritual adoption.
Understanding Our Need for Spiritual Adoption
The first step in grasping the doctrine of adoption is acknowledging the dire need for divine intervention in our natural state. Pastor Sam emphasizes that "our natural state is not that we are sons of God, but we are enemies." This understanding draws from the biblical depiction of humanity as "children of wrath," aligned with the rebellious nature of "our father the devil." Romans 5:10 starkly paints this reality: "For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son…" This recognition lays the groundwork for appreciating adoption's transformative power.
In drawing attention to our natural estrangement from God's family, Pastor Sam dismantles the common belief that all are innately God's children. Instead, he underscores how spiritual adoption requires a faith-based transition: "It's an act of his free grace… God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise… so that no human being might boast in the presence of God." The acknowledgement of our innate sinfulness elevates the doctrine of adoption as a remarkable act of divine grace and love.
The Costly Process of Divine Adoption
Adoption into God's family comes with an immense price, underscoring the gravity and significance of this spiritual transformation. The "process God went through to adopt his sons and daughters was even more extensive and intensive and expensive than this" human adoption. As Pastor Sam notes, this was not a straightforward task but demanded the ultimate sacrifice—the life of Jesus Christ. He draws a compelling analogy between secular adoption and divine adoption, illustrating the emotional and spiritual depths of this process.
"When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons." This pivotal scripture encapsulates the heart of the adoption transaction—Jesus Christ's submission and sacrifice to ensure believers' rightful place in God's family. The intentional timing and orchestration of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection mirrors God's profound plan, ensuring that believers may no longer be "a slave, but a son."
The Transformative Results of Adoption in Faith
Upon adoption into God’s family, believers enjoy unparalleled privileges and transformation. One of the most immediate gifts conferred is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. As Pastor Sam articulates, "God sends his Spirit to dwell within you," acting as both a "helper in sanctification" and a "guarantee of our assurance." This assurance secures believers' confidence in their eternal inheritance, fulfilling God’s promise of unwavering fidelity.
Moreover, believers enter an intimate relationship with God, akin to a child’s endearing call to their father: "Abba, Father." This expression of intimacy, once reserved for Jesus, signifies the profound closeness believers can now share with God. The privilege of such an authentic and near relationship with God, as Pastor Sam explains, is a testament to the audacious and transforming power of love that comes through adoption.
Finally, the invisible yet tangible tie that binds believers is their newfound family in Christ. Jesus' commandment to "love one another just as I have loved you" exemplifies the ethos of this family. Brothers and sisters in faith are invited to partake in a collective journey characterized by shared love, unity, and mutual edification—"a compelling witness to the world."
Pastor Sam's personal reflection on belonging within a blended family resonates profoundly with the believer's collective standing as adopted sons and daughters. His illustration symbolizes how Christians, regardless of their past, can be fully integrated into the family of faith, experiencing love and connection that transcends worldly divisions.
Overall, Pastor Sam's exploration reaffirms the profound spiritual journey inherent in the doctrine of adoption. It elucidates the depths of God’s grace and love while grounding believers in a faith-filled understanding of their divine lineage. Through spiritual adoption, believers do not simply join God’s family; they are transformed, empowered, and equipped to reflect God’s love to others.
