6610 adoption, descriptions of

The words used by the NT to describe believers point to their status and privileges as the adopted children of God.

Believers are no longer slaves but sons

Gal 4:7-9 See also Jn 8:34-36; Ro 8:15; Phm 16

Believers are children of God

1Jn 3:1-2 The title “child of God” is thought by some to be distinct from that of “son of God” (see below). “child” is thought to emphasise God’s fatherhood, whilst “son” is thought to emphasise the Christian’s privileges. These terms are however, sometimes used interchangeably. See also Lk 20:36; Ro 8:21; Php 2:15; 1Jn 3:2; 1Jn 5:2

Believers are sons of God

Ro 8:14 See also Ro 9:26; Gal 3:26

Believers are children of the resurrection

Lk 20:36

Believers are children of light, sons of light

Jn 12:36; Eph 5:8; 1Th 5:5

Believers are heirs of God

Ro 8:17 See also Gal 3:29; Gal 4:7; Tit 3:7; Heb 6:17

Believers are brothers of Jesus Christ

Heb 2:11-12 See also Mt 12:48-50; Ro 8:29; Heb 2:17

Believers are brothers of other believers

1Jn 3:14 See also 1Jn 4:19-20; Rev 12:10; Rev 19:10

Believers are members of God’s household, his family

Eph 2:19 See also Gal 6:10; Heb 3:2-6

See also