God’s perspective on adoption is beautifully displayed throughout the Bible. Adoption is not only a human practice, but it is also a spiritual reality that God has ordained from the beginning. In Ephesians 1:5, we are told that God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family through Jesus Christ. This act of adoption was not a last-minute decision or an afterthought, but a deliberate and intentional choice made by God.
From the very beginning, God desired to bring us into his family. He created us in his image and likeness, but sin separated us from him. However, God’s love for us was so great that he made a plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. Through his sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for us to be reconciled to God and be adopted as his children.
The concept of adoption in the Bible goes beyond just being included in God’s family. It carries with it the idea of being chosen, loved, and fully accepted. When God adopts us, he not only gives us a new identity but also grants us all the rights and privileges of being his children. We become heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).
God’s heart for adoption is seen throughout the Old Testament as well. In the book of Exodus, we read the story of Moses, who was adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter. Despite being born as a Hebrew slave, Moses was chosen and brought into the royal family. This adoption not only saved Moses’ life but also positioned him to fulfill God’s purposes as the deliverer of the Israelites.
Another powerful example of adoption is found in the story of Esther. Esther was an orphan who was adopted by her cousin Mordecai. Through this adoption, she was raised up to become queen and played a crucial role in saving her people from destruction. God used her adoption to bring about his plans and purposes.
These stories from the Bible illustrate the heart of God for adoption. He delights in bringing us into his family and giving us a new identity and purpose. Just as earthly adoptions bring joy to the parents and the adopted child, God finds great delight in adopting us as his own.
As believers, we have the privilege of experiencing this spiritual adoption firsthand. We can personally know and experience the love and acceptance of God as our heavenly Father. We are no longer orphans, but cherished children of God. This truth should shape how we view ourselves and how we relate to others.
The Bible reveals that God has always had a heart for adoption. He chose us, loved us, and adopted us into his family through Jesus Christ. This act of adoption brings us into a deep, intimate relationship with God, where we find love, acceptance, and purpose. Let us embrace our identity as adopted children of God and live in the fullness of his love and grace.