· Bible dictionary

Adoption

The new status of believers as God's sons and daughters — not just forgiven sinners but welcomed children, with all the rights of family.

Paul uses Roman adoption as the picture: a legal act bringing an outsider into full family standing, including inheritance.

The Spirit cries "Abba, Father" in the believer's heart — internal witness of the new sonship.

Adoption is a family doctrine. It pictures God not as judge but as Father, who runs to meet the prodigal.

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Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.