Children of God

The concept of adoption was not well known in the Jewish world of Paul’s day, but it was practised among the Romans. Paul uses the concept to describe our relationship to God. Through adoption we become “children of God, and if children, then heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ?” We have an intimate relationship with God the Father. God knows and loves us as he loves Christ the Son. What an amazing inheritance!

Paul goes on to say we may be called to suffer because of this relationship. At this time in our part of the world we have not been called upon to endure persecution, but it certainly exists in many places. When I was living in India, persecution was, and continues to be, a reality in various communities. In these communities it is not uncommon for church buildings and the homes of believers to be destroyed. To accept God’s offer of adoption into the family of God is a major life-changing decision.

When was the last time you celebrated your adoption into the family of God?

Loving God, thank you for adopting us into your family. Help us to remember to pray for those who suffer persecution for the sake of the gospel. Amen. — REJ

Contributed by Children of God

The concept of adoption was not well known in the Jewish world of Paul's day, but it was practised among the Romans. Paul uses the concept to describe our relationship to God. Through adoption we become "children of God, and if children, then heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ?" We have an intimate relationship with God the Father. God knows and loves us as he loves Christ the Son. What an amazing inheritance! Paul goes on to say we may be called to suffer because of this relationship. At this time in our part of the world we have not been called upon to endure persecution, but it certainly exists in many places. When I was living in India, persecution was, and continues to be, a reality in various communities. In these communities it is not uncommon for church buildings and the homes of believers to be destroyed. To accept God's offer of adoption into the family of God is a major life-changing decision. When was the last time you celebrated your adoption into the family of God?
Eternity for Today