Adoption. An expression used by St. Paul in reference to the present and prospective privileges of Christians. Romans 8:15; Romans 8:23; Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5. He probably alludes to the Roman custom by which a person not having children of his own might adopt as his son one born of other parents. The relationship was to all intents and purposes the same as existed between a natural father and son. The term is used figuratively to show the close relationship to God of the Christian. Galatians 4:4-5; Romans 8:14-17. He is received into God's family from the world, and becomes a child and heir of God.
More than 4,500 subjects and proper names are defined and analyzed with corresponding Scripture references. Bible students have used "Smith's Bible Dictionary" since its introduction in the 1880s, making it a trustworthy classic.Wikipedia
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