“Cry … ‘Abba, Father'”

Learning to Live in the Spirit of Adoption
“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

Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000

Living Sacrifice 31

The "blessed hope" has the power to give us perspective, motivation and is the key to being transformed (Rom 12:2). As a new creature we can accept the attitudes and actions of this world bu we'll never be conformed. Transformation comes by the "renewing of your mind". We must "beautify" the word of God to the world (Tit 2:11-14). Virgin birth is the point of time when God's Grace appeared (Tit 2:11, Joh 1:14, Joh 1:17). Epiphany means "the appearance of God" is used for first and second advent (1Ti 1:10, 1Ti 6:14). Salvation came to man (2Co 5:21, Rom 5:12). General Grace instructs us -- it is multiplied to us when we study (1Pe 1:2, Tit 2:12, 2Ti 3:16). "deny ungodliness" is making ourselves that living sacrifice (Rom 12:2). Godliness is Christ in the flesh; ungodliness is religion (1Ti 3:16). Good without God is evil (e.g., Cain and his offering). Living godly is living by faith and is Christ centered (Gal 2:20) -- Christ living through us. Righteousness is a right relationship to God (Rom 12:1) -- to "live sensibly and righteously" (Tit 2:12) is godliness. "Looking for the blessed hope" (Tit 2:13, Psa 37:4). The return of Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all His promises. Romance is the melding of souls, communication, and companionship (e.g. Eve "suited" for Adam). "Looking for" the blessed hope means "to embrace face to face" His appearing; this is the dynamic of the Christian life. Resurrection is the promise of His return. Hope is found in three views: "the blessed hope" (Tit 2:13); "living hope" (1Pe 1:3); "the purifying hope" (Joh 3:3). 1Co 13:13 shows that faith is bridged to love by hope. "Looking" is found regarding Simeon (Luk 2:21-25) the same as found in Tit 2:13. Simeon was "looking for the consolation of Israel". Promises (i.e., living in hope) escape the corruption in the world (2Pe 1:4).

Scripture References: John 1:17, Titus 2:12, Titus 2:13, John 1:14, Romans 12:1, Luke 2:21-25, Titus 2:11, Galatians 2:20, John 3:3, Titus 2:11-14, Romans 12:2, Titus 2:13, Romans 12:2, Titus 2:12, Psalms 37:4, Romans 5:12, Titus 2:13

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From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"

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.

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