Embracing Our Identity: Adoption as God's Children
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we delved into the profound concept of adoption as presented in Galatians 3:23 through Galatians 4. We began by understanding the role of the law as a schoolmaster, a guardian that led us to Christ. The law was never meant to save but to show us our need for a Savior. Through faith in Christ, we are no longer under the law but are children of God. This led us to the central theme of adoption, where we explored the dual nature of our entry into God's family: being born again and being adopted.
We discussed how, in the Roman world, children of wealthy families were under the care of servants until they reached maturity. Similarly, Israel was under the law until the coming of Christ. The law served as a guardian, teaching them the basics, the ABCs of spiritual life, until they were ready for the full revelation in Christ. When the fullness of time came, God sent His Son to redeem us, making us adult sons with full rights and privileges in His family.
We emphasized that adoption in the biblical sense means being placed as adult sons, not as children. This grants us immediate access to the inheritance and authority of the family. We are no longer servants but sons, with the Holy Spirit confirming our position by crying out "Abba, Father" from within us. This intimate term signifies our close relationship with God, not as a distant master but as a loving Father.
We also touched on the peril of reverting to legalism, the old bondage of the law, which Paul warns against. Instead, we are to live in the liberty and freedom that Christ has provided, enjoying the riches of His grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom. As adult sons, we have the privilege to draw from these riches, living a life that reflects our true position in God's family.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Law as a Schoolmaster: The law served as a guardian to lead us to Christ, showing us our need for a Savior. It was never meant to save but to prepare us for the full revelation in Christ. Understanding this helps us appreciate the purpose of the law and the freedom we now have in Christ. [12:09]
2. Adoption as Adult Sons: Biblical adoption means being placed as adult sons with full rights and privileges. This grants us immediate access to the inheritance and authority of God's family. We are no longer under the bondage of the law but are free to enjoy our position as sons. [23:31]
3. Confirmation by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit within us cries out "Abba, Father," confirming our position as sons of God. This intimate term signifies our close relationship with God, not as a distant master but as a loving Father. This assurance is a profound comfort and a source of strength. [47:29]
4. Living in Liberty: Paul warns against reverting to the old bondage of the law. Instead, we are to live in the liberty and freedom that Christ has provided. Legalism and rituals do not enhance our spirituality; they only reveal our immaturity. True maturity comes from living by faith in Christ. [22:31]
5. Riches of Our Inheritance: As adult sons, we have the privilege to draw from the riches of God's grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom. These are not just future promises but present realities that we can access and utilize in our daily lives. This inheritance empowers us to live victoriously. [57:10]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[10:37] - Introduction and Opening Prayer
[11:23] - The Role of the Law
[12:09] - The Law as a Schoolmaster
[13:27] - Children of God by Faith
[14:38] - Adoption and Heirship
[16:55] - Born and Adopted into God's Family
[18:03] - Entering Through New Birth
[19:54] - Enjoying Through Adoption
[22:31] - The Law's Purpose and Limitations
[23:31] - Adoption as Adult Sons
[24:54] - The Analogy of Heirship
[30:49] - Elements of the World
[35:22] - Fullness of Time and Redemption
[47:29] - Confirmation by the Holy Spirit
[57:10] - Riches of Our Inheritance
[01:03:03] - Our Position in Christ
[01:06:17] - Warning Against Legalism
[01:16:08] - Closing Prayer and Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Galatians 3:23-4:7
- Romans 8:14-17
- Ephesians 1:5
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Galatians 3:24-25, what was the purpose of the law before faith in Christ came? [12:09]
2. How does Paul describe our relationship with God after we have faith in Christ in Galatians 4:6-7? [14:38]
3. What does Romans 8:15-16 say about the role of the Holy Spirit in confirming our status as children of God? [47:29]
4. In Ephesians 1:5, what does it mean to be predestined to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding the law as a schoolmaster change our perspective on its role in our spiritual lives? [22:31]
2. What are the implications of being adopted as adult sons with full rights and privileges in God's family? [23:31]
3. How does the Holy Spirit's cry of "Abba, Father" within us affect our relationship with God and our daily lives? [47:29]
4. Why is it important to live in the liberty and freedom that Christ has provided rather than reverting to legalism? [01:06:17]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt bound by legalism or religious rituals. How did it affect your relationship with God and others? How can you move towards living in the freedom Christ provides? [01:06:17]
2. The sermon emphasized that we are no longer servants but sons with full rights and privileges. How can you start living out this truth in your daily life? What specific changes can you make? [24:26]
3. The Holy Spirit confirms our position as God's children by crying out "Abba, Father." How can you cultivate a more intimate relationship with God, seeing Him as a loving Father rather than a distant master? [47:29]
4. Paul warns against reverting to the old bondage of the law. Are there areas in your life where you are still holding onto legalistic practices? How can you let go of these and embrace the liberty in Christ? [01:06:17]
5. As adult sons, we have access to the riches of God's grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom. Identify one area in your life where you need to draw from these riches. What steps will you take this week to access and utilize this inheritance? [57:10]
6. The sermon mentioned the peril of reverting to legalism. How can you help others in your small group or church community to avoid this trap and live in the freedom of Christ? [01:06:17]
7. Think about the term "Abba, Father" and what it signifies. How can you incorporate this understanding into your prayer life and daily interactions with God? [47:29]
Devotional
Day 1: The Law as a Guide to Christ
The law served as a guardian to lead us to Christ, showing us our need for a Savior. It was never meant to save but to prepare us for the full revelation in Christ. Understanding this helps us appreciate the purpose of the law and the freedom we now have in Christ. The law's role was akin to a schoolmaster, teaching us the basics and pointing us towards the ultimate solution—faith in Jesus Christ. This understanding liberates us from the misconception that adherence to the law can earn us salvation. Instead, it highlights our dependence on Christ's redemptive work.
In the Roman world, children of wealthy families were under the care of servants until they reached maturity. Similarly, Israel was under the law until the coming of Christ. The law served as a guardian, teaching them the ABCs of spiritual life, until they were ready for the full revelation in Christ. When the fullness of time came, God sent His Son to redeem us, making us adult sons with full rights and privileges in His family. [12:09]
Galatians 3:24-25 (ESV): "So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian."
Reflection: How has your understanding of the law changed your perspective on your need for Christ? Can you identify areas in your life where you still rely on your own efforts rather than on faith in Jesus?
Day 2: Adoption as Adult Sons
Biblical adoption means being placed as adult sons with full rights and privileges. This grants us immediate access to the inheritance and authority of God's family. We are no longer under the bondage of the law but are free to enjoy our position as sons. This concept of adoption is profound because it signifies a transition from being under a guardian to enjoying the full benefits of sonship. In the Roman context, an adopted son had the same rights as a natural-born son, including inheritance rights.
This spiritual adoption means that we are not just children in God's family but adult sons with full access to the inheritance and authority that comes with it. This new status allows us to live in the liberty and freedom that Christ has provided, enjoying the riches of His grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom. As adult sons, we have the privilege to draw from these riches, living a life that reflects our true position in God's family. [23:31]
Galatians 4:4-5 (ESV): "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons."
Reflection: What does it mean to you to be an "adult son" in God's family? How can you start living in the freedom and authority that comes with this position today?
Day 3: Confirmation by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit within us cries out "Abba, Father," confirming our position as sons of God. This intimate term signifies our close relationship with God, not as a distant master but as a loving Father. This assurance is a profound comfort and a source of strength. The Holy Spirit's role is crucial in affirming our identity and relationship with God. It is through the Spirit that we experience the deep, personal connection with our Heavenly Father.
This intimate relationship is not just a theological concept but a lived reality. The term "Abba" is an Aramaic word that translates to "Daddy" or "Papa," indicating a close, personal relationship. This is the kind of relationship God desires with us, one that is marked by love, trust, and intimacy. The Holy Spirit's confirmation of our sonship is a daily reminder of our secure position in God's family. [47:29]
Romans 8:15-16 (ESV): "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God."
Reflection: How does the Holy Spirit's confirmation of your sonship impact your daily life? Can you take a moment today to thank God for this intimate relationship and ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your awareness of it?
Day 4: Living in Liberty
Paul warns against reverting to the old bondage of the law. Instead, we are to live in the liberty and freedom that Christ has provided. Legalism and rituals do not enhance our spirituality; they only reveal our immaturity. True maturity comes from living by faith in Christ. The temptation to revert to legalism is strong, especially when we face challenges or uncertainties. However, Paul emphasizes that our freedom in Christ is not just a theological concept but a practical reality.
Living in liberty means embracing the grace and freedom that Christ has provided. It means rejecting the notion that we can earn God's favor through our efforts and instead resting in the finished work of Christ. This freedom allows us to live joyfully and confidently, knowing that our relationship with God is secure. It also empowers us to extend grace and love to others, reflecting the freedom we have received. [22:31]
Galatians 5:1 (ESV): "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to revert to legalism? How can you embrace the freedom and liberty that Christ has provided in those areas today?
Day 5: Riches of Our Inheritance
As adult sons, we have the privilege to draw from the riches of God's grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom. These are not just future promises but present realities that we can access and utilize in our daily lives. This inheritance empowers us to live victoriously. The riches of our inheritance are vast and encompass every aspect of our lives. God's grace, supply, goodness, and wisdom are available to us right now, enabling us to navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope.
This inheritance is not something we have to wait for; it is ours to enjoy and utilize today. God's grace covers our past, His supply meets our present needs, His goodness assures us of His love, and His wisdom guides our future. As we draw from these riches, we are empowered to live lives that reflect our true position as sons of God, bringing glory to Him in all that we do. [57:10]
Ephesians 1:18-19 (ESV): "Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might."
Reflection: What specific aspect of God's inheritance do you need to draw from today—His grace, supply, goodness, or wisdom? How can you practically access and utilize this in your current situation?
Quotes
1. "We are all God's creation, but we're not all God's children. You say, how do you know? Well, according to this verse that we just read, for ye are all the children of God by faith. If you don't come to faith in Christ, Jesus, you are not the children of God." [12:47] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you are in the family of God, you were born into that family, and you were adopted. You were both. Let me show you. Look at, look at your, at your intro there, and I want you to, I want you to see this. Write this down. I think I got a, did I give y'all a couple of blanks in that one? Uh, number one, number one, we enter, write that word down. We enter the family of God through the new birth, through the new birth." [17:44] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We enjoy the family of God through adoption. Ephesians one five, having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. Romans eight 14 for as many as are, are led by the spirit. They are the sons of God for ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you've received the spirit of that's why we can cry Abba, father, Papa, the spirit itself beareth witness under our spirit that we are the children of God." [20:34] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The law was never meant to save anybody. The law doesn't have the ability. To save anybody. Are y'all with me? Say amen. And so what's the point then he, he answers that question. Well, what was the law for? It's a schoolmaster. It's a schoolmaster. It taught us the need for Christ. It showed us the need that we have for Christ." [22:08] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When the fullness of the time was come, say amen, when the fullness of the time was come, when everything was set, when everything was done, when everything was ready, God sent forth, and by the way, God is never late. He is never early. He was right on time. And when that time come, God sent forth his son made of a woman, made under the law to redeem them, which were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." [35:22] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The greatest confirmation I have that I'm in the family of God is because the Holy spirit is in me and the Holy spirit is reaffirming and confirming in my spirit that I belong to Christ. He didn't just say you're in the family. Now he said, let me, let me, let me, let me give you a little assurance. Let me give you some help. And he sealed you. Somebody say, man, the Bible even says that the Holy spirit is, is the, uh, earnest of our inheritance, the earnest, the down payment, the proof that what, what I'm saying, I'm going to do." [49:23] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "The son obeys out of, but the servant obeys out of, you remember, you remember, we've not received the spirit of fear, spirit of bondage again to fear. We don't, we don't serve God because we're afraid he's going to. Well, I say, I say, we don't trying to live under the law do those legalists, those real legalistic crowds. They, they, they, they try to fear and intimidate. If you don't do it and, and, and man, you grow up in a, an atmosphere, you think God's up in heaven, just waiting for you to, you go ahead and do it." [53:39] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The prodigal son. When he come back home with nothing. Rags. Just, just y'all know, lost it all. He came to his father, but his father ran to him. And this is what the son said. Just make me a, a servant. And the father said, I can't do it. Cause you ain't no servant. You're a, put a ring. On his finger, bring the best robe. I don't know if you know who's going on the best robe or not. Think about it. Father gave his own robe and then put shoes on his feet." [01:04:01] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "You are saved by faith and we live by faith. Can we give God praise and glory? He called, he called those, the law, he called the law, the elementary beggarly elements, right? The ABCs. This is what it would be like. Has anybody got a master's degree in here in anything? You know, I've been spiritual all day long. Ma'am, can, can you come up here just a second? Would, would, would that? Embarrass you?" [01:11:58] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "He said, you're going backwards, not forwards. You're not maturing. You're regressing. You're regressing. Stand on your feet. I lied. We're not out on time by a few minutes. That's just because y'all didn't get up here quick enough. All right. Isn't Bible study fun? Now, I want to, now, now watch this guys. I don't know if y'all been picking up on this. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know if y'all been picking up." [01:15:00] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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