Adopted into God’s family by Trevor J. Burke

Author:Trevor J. Burke
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: New Studies in Biblical Theology;NSBT;Biblical theology;theology;Bible;Scripture;Christian;Christian theology;silver;silver series;D.A. Carson;DA Carson;adopted;adoption;
ISBN: 9780830882212
Published: 2018-11-15T00:00:00+00:00

the image of the initiate being adopted as God’s child and thus receiving a new family of human brothers and sisters is a vivid way of portraying what a modern sociologist might call the resocialization of conversion. The natural kinship structure into which the person had been born and which previously defined his place and connections with society is here supplanted by a new set of relationships.19

Christian adoption not only signifies a deep resocialization that has taken place but also points up the fact that if God’s adopted sons and daughters are to be properly nurtured and established in the faith, then the environment in which they will develop and mature is when the ekklēsia (church) best resembles a ‘family-like fellowship’ (Sandnes 1994: 14). Indeed, it ought to be within the arena and context of the church family itself (not to mention society at large or those on the periphery of the church) that God’s adopted offspring should bring honour and blessing, rather than shame and dishonour, as they demonstrate genuine, practical service and love towards others within the household of faith. Paul states towards the close of his letter, ‘Do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers’ (tous oikeious tēs pisteōs, Gal. 6:10). Whenever Christians buy into the dishonouring ways of the world and the prevailing culture and fail to honour the Father, they not only deny their adoption but also negate the work of God in Christ through the Sprit in bringing them into God’s family.

Having considered how adoption and honour are related in Galatians, we turn to a consideration of Paul’s letter to the Romans where the context and the apostle’s approach to these matters takes on a different complexion.

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