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Adoption: An Inheritance from God

While none of us is perfect in demonstrating these evidences, we
will grow progressively in Christlikeness as we walk in the Spirit and
are led by Him (Romans 8:15–16). This progressive change in us will
demonstrate that we are His children.

Knowing that you are a part of the family of God should make you
eternally grateful and joyful. This knowledge should also cause you to
make a firm commitment: by the grace of God, you will never do
anything to bring dishonor or shame to the family of God. May you ever
seek to bear the name with dignity
and pride, never forgetting that you
are part of a royal priesthood of
believers whose purpose is to show Knowing we are
forth the praises of Him who has part of God’s family
called you out of darkness into His
wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9). causes us to commit
to never do anything
The doctrine of adoption calls
to mind the case of John and Joan that would bring
Murphy, a childless couple. The dishonor or shame
Murphys had been married over
ten years when they were asked if to the family of God.
they were interested in adopting a
baby born to a young woman who
could not take care of it. The Murphys accepted the offer and rejoiced,
believing that this was an answer to their prayers. They eagerly shared
the good news with their friends.

When little Beth was born she appeared to be perfect, a bundle of
joy. However, within a few hours the doctor who had delivered the baby
telephoned the Murphys and told them that Beth had a cleft palate—a
deformity in the roof of the mouth. He said, “Do you still want her?”
John answered without hesitation, “Yes! We’ve told everyone that Beth
is an answer to prayer—a gift from God. And even though this deformity
has appeared, we love her just the same.”

However, just before the Murphys went to claim the baby, opposition
arose about the legality of the adoption, since the Murphys lived in a

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