Adopted into the Family of God (Chapter 12, Paragraph 1)

“All those that are justified, God vouchsafed, in and for the sake of His only Son Jesus Christ…”

The Father bestows the privilege of adoption not because of our merit, but because we are united to Christ. Adoption flows from justification—it is grace upon grace.

“…to make partakers of the grace of adoption…”

Adoption is not a metaphor—it is a real legal and relational status. We are made true sons and daughters of God, not merely servants or guests (John 1:12; Gal. 4:4–5).

“…by which they are taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children of God…”

Adoption changes our identity and standing. We are numbered among God's household, and enjoy privileges such as access to the Father, the indwelling Spirit, and a heavenly inheritance (Rom. 8:17).

“…have His name put upon them…”

God puts His name on His children. This points to identity and ownership (Rev. 3:12). We bear His name now, and forever.

“…receive the spirit of adoption…”

The Holy Spirit is not only the seal of our salvation but also the Spirit of adoption, who causes us to cry, “Abba, Father” (Rom. 8:15). This is the Spirit’s internal witness.

“…have access to the throne of grace with boldness…”

Because we are adopted, we come to God as beloved children, not as fearful slaves. The throne is not one of judgment for us, but of grace (Heb. 4:16).

“…are enabled to cry, Abba, Father…”

This is the intimate cry of sonship. It is a Spirit-born expression of dependence, love, and assurance. The believer knows God not only as King, but as Father.

“…are pitied, protected, provided for, and chastened by Him as by a Father…”

The full spectrum of God’s fatherly care is on display: His compassion in our sorrow, His protection in our trials, His provision in our needs, and His discipline in our sin (Heb. 12:6–7).

“…yet never cast off…”

What a comfort! Earthly fathers may abandon, but our heavenly Father never will. He may correct, but He will never disown those adopted in Christ (John 6:37).

“…but sealed to the day of redemption…”

We are marked by the Spirit until the day we see Christ face to face. The seal means that God will finish what He began (Eph. 1:13–14; Phil. 1:6).

“…and inherit the promises, as heirs of everlasting salvation.”

Adoption comes with an eternal inheritance. Everything Christ has earned is ours by right of sonship. We are joint-heirs with Him—destined for glory.

Application for the Believer:

Live each day as a child of God, not as a spiritual orphan. You are not merely forgiven—you are family. Let that truth shape how you pray, suffer, obey, and hope. When trials come, remember that they are the discipline of a loving Father. When you fall into fear, cry out, “Abba.” When Satan accuses, remember your adoption papers are signed in Christ’s blood. You have a seat at the table, a name written in heaven, and an inheritance that will never fade. Rejoice in this undeserved grace: you are not just saved—you are loved as a son or daughter.