Adoption, privileges and duties of

As adopted members of the family of God, believers receive both the privileges and responsibilities of being children of God.

The privileges received by believers through adoption

Believers are given the Spirit of adoption

Galatians 4:6 See also Romans 8:15

And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!”

Believers have access to their heavenly Father

Ephesians 2:18 See also Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 4:16

For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

Believers become heirs with Christ of heaven

Romans 8:17 See also Galatians 3:29, Galatians 4:7; Colossians 1:12; 1 Peter 1:4

And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ — if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.

The benefits God gives to those he adopts

Believers are pitied by him

Psalm 103:13

As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.

Believers are protected

Proverbs 14:26

He who fears the LORD is secure in confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge.

Believers are provided for

Matthew 6:31–33

Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.

Believers receive loving discipline

Hebrews 12:6

For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.”

Believers are never forsaken

Psalm 94:14

For the LORD will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage.

Believers are assured by the Spirit

Romans 8:16

The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

The responsibilities of God's adopted children

Believers are to walk in the light

See also John 12:35–36; Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:4–5

Believers are to shun evil

2 Corinthians 6:17–18; Philippians 2:15

Believers are to purify themselves

2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 John 3:2–3

Believers are to live obediently

Matthew 12:50; 1 Peter 1:14; 1 John 5:2–3

Believers are to live in peace

Matthew 5:9; Romans 14:19

Believers are to live in love

Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 3:18

Believers are to be watchful

1 Thessalonians 5:5–6