The Spirit of Adoption: Part 1

By: Pastor Ben Aguirre

By: Pastor Ben Aguirre

Romans 8:14-15 (NKJV Strong's)
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 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."


If you have followed our ministry you have probably heard me use the phrase, “The Spirit of Adoption” frequently in sermons and conversations. This wording has such significant meaning for the Believer. Not enough could be stated to reveal the weight of what God’s Word is conveying. Knowing who you are in Christ Jesus is paramount. It will enable the Christian to follow with right objectives and strive to discover more that is available in our relationship with God.

“The Spirit of Adoption” had a common understanding in Paul’s day. It was the time for a man to be recognized as fully mature and released as a full partner with his father in whatever business or trade the family had. The son could now act in his father’s name with his full authority. There was no fear the son would act inappropriately because he had his father’s heart and vision for the family business. This event was with ceremony and celebration. A good example can be seen in the Life if Jesus during his baptism in the River Jordan.

Matthew 3:16-17 (NKJV Strong's)
16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."


The Father God announced to everyone present that His Son, Jesus, was now in the ministry of His Father, doing His Father’s will.

John 6:38 (NKJV Strong's)
38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.


Everyone present that day was familiar with the adoption ceremony and when they heard the voice from heaven speaking those familiar words over Jesus they knew exactly what was happening.

You and I as God’s children are to be learning how to cooperate with God’s Holy Spirit to bring us to maturity. Now that we have been baptized in the Holy Spirit we need to become familiar with Him in how he leads so we can grow up to full maturity. This is what is really meant when scripture says:

Romans 8:14 (NKJV Strong's)
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.


To be “led” is to be a pupil or student. “Sons” is the mature huios sons that have come to the adoption place. This is why it is vital to be submissive to authority and learn the vision of leadership. It is their task to mature the Saints for the work of the ministry. The atmosphere of accountability helps to train and develops the immature into the mature that God can use like He pleases. Are you in a teachable spirit? Can you be taught and mentored? Have you caught the vision of your leader? If you are you are on the road to becoming mature and usable to the Master of the house like He destined you to be.
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