Adopted

Date: 1/2/2026

Bible Passages: Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:4-7

Listen Below:

Adoption

30:23

Adopted From Enemies to Sons and Daughters

Romans 8:1–17; Galatians 4:4–7

In the Bible, we see a profound and repeated theme: for those who are Christians, the Lord Jesus Christ takes the curses and punishment that they deserve, so that they may receive the blessings that he deserves. He sinks down low on the cross so that they may be raised up high.

In his death, we can have life (Romans 6:10–11). In his punishment, we receive forgiveness and healing: “He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5). In his turmoil, we receive peace: “upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace.” In order to satisfy divine justice, there is a fitting and commensurate curse placed upon our Saviour (2 Corinthians 5:21).

This is also true in relation to adoption. We are adopted into God’s family because there is a corresponding curse borne by Jesus Christ.

Before considering this further, an important qualification must be made. Jesus never lost his Sonship. He is the Son by nature –  eternally begotten of the Father, the exact imprint of his nature and the image of the invisible God (Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:15). To suggest that he lost his Sonship would be both false and dangerous.

Yet, in his humanity on the cross, he was treated not as a son but as a rebel. Instead of the love and benevolence that rightly belonged to him, he received wrath. Instead of comfort, he experienced rejection. This reaches its awful climax in the cry: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46).

1. Enemies

By nature, we are enemies of God. Ever since Adam fell, humanity has been cut off from God’s blessing. We are hostile towards God in mind and deed (Colossians 1:21). God, reigning in righteousness, stands opposed to those who persist in rebellion. Scripture is clear: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). We are enemies both by nature and by action.

2. Sons

But for those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ, everything changes. “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Though once alienated, believers are reconciled through the death of Christ (Colossians 1:21–23).

More than this, they are adopted. “You did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption” (Romans 8:15). They are not merely forgiven servants, but welcomed as sons and daughters.

The richness of what Christians receive in adoption is beautifully summarised in Chapter 12 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith,  (https://www.trinitybaptistcharlesworth.co.uk/about-9), which teaches that all who are justified are granted “the grace of adoption.” According to the Confession, those adopted by God:

• enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children of God (Romans 8:17);

• have his name put upon them and are not ashamed to belong to him (2 Corinthians 6:18; Revelation 3:12);

• receive the Spirit of adoption, who unites us to Christ and frees us from seeking salvation by law-keeping (Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6);

• have access to the throne of grace with boldness (Ephesians 2:18);

• are pitied, “As a father shows compassion to his children” (Psalm 103:13);

• are protected, for “his children will have a refuge” (Proverbs 14:26);

• are provided for by our heavenly Father (Matthew 6:26);

• are chastened in love (Hebrews 12:6);

• are never cast off (Lamentations 3:31);

• are sealed for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30);

• and inherit the promises as heirs of everlasting salvation (Ephesians 1:3–5).
  

Adoption means that God not only forgives us but brings us into his household, puts his name upon us, seats us at his table, and commits himself to us as a faithful Father.

How Is This Possible?

Only through the Lord Jesus Christ. “When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born under the law” (Galatians 4:4–7). He perfectly kept the law we had broken and then bore the punishment we deserved (Romans 8:3–4).

On the cross, he received the condemnation meant for us. He was treated as an enemy so that we might be welcomed as children.

For believers today – in Charlesworth, Glossop and beyond – this doctrine is not merely abstract theology. It is living comfort. Because of Christ, enemies have become sons, strangers have become family, and sinners have been brought home.