“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.'”
Romans 8:15
This study of spiritual adoption will hold many surprises for us. Not only is God the Father treated slightly in most works on theology, but the concept of sonship by spiritual adoption is scarcely understood.
Because of the biblical meaning of the term “adoption,” our study is forced to take a practical approach to the relationship of the believer to the heavenly Father. This approach is demanded by each of the passages in which the phrase “Abba, Father” is found.
Living in the Spirit of Adoption – VA 2015
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Rom 1:1-2 presents doctrines for application to include the need for a sense of urgency and the fact we are brethren -- valuing each other (Heb 11:34, Psa 16:3). Paul adjusted to his environment -- common courtesy -- so that he could win people to Christ (1Co 9:22). In Adam we are in darkness, but when we believed in Christ, we entered into the environment of Grace (Col 1:13, 1Co 12:13). "By the mercies of God" (Rom 12:1). Romans Outline: Condemnation (Romans 1-3), Justification (Romans 4-5), Sanctification (Romans 6-8), Dispensation (Romans 9-11), Application (Romans 12-14). God's mercies motivate His provisions to us (Mat 9:36, Psa 103:1-2, Eph 1:1-3). Our compass is the cross. Left: Jesus Christ performed Redemption which paid for all our sins; Top: Propitiation - God is completely satisfied; Right: Reconciliation means there's now a change - the hostility is removed (Rom 5:1). Bottom: Justification: we are declared righteous.
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.