According to a 2022 Harris Poll, the attitude of Americans toward adoption and foster care is trending in the right direction. Up from 17% in 2017, nearly 37% of adults reported having considered adoption in 2022. While foster care is growing more rapidly than adoption, currently, 1 in 10 US adults are adopted. What this means is the need is great, more kids are being chosen, and adoption is woven into the fabric of our culture.
This is much more than a humanitarian effort to care for kids in need; it is a deeply intimate way to demonstrate God’s love for us. In fact, families that commit to adoption are practically living out the Gospel. I don’t say that to guilt a family into considering adoption. Moreso, I say that to urge us to lean into Galatians 4:1-7. There Paul intentionally provides an illustration of how adoption impacts our faith.
In understanding ancient cultural and legal adoption laws, it was common for adults to be adopted so that a family could pass on their property and wealth as an inheritance. In fact, Paul teaches so that we not only understand our salvation but more deeply understand our position and identity in Christ.
Through adoption, a believer is a son or daughter of God and therefore enjoys eternal security as a child and the inheritance of His riches on earth and in heaven. Pay close attention to that statement. For those who fear their conduct can undo their salvation, the depth of being adopted and the work of the Spirit in us leads us to deeply grasp our security in Christ based on God’s power and work rather than our discipline.
This understanding can lead us to walk in freedom and grace rather than fear and guilt. Rest in that. Walk in that. Share that! You are made a son and daughter of God at the moment He justifies you and declares you right because of Jesus’ blood sacrifice. Wow!