Over the past two weeks, our journey through Romans 8 has established foundational truths for our faith. We began by celebrating the verdict that sets every believer free: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus". Then, last week, we explored the practical outworking of this freedom, learning that our mindset is critical: to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
This morning, our study of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives becomes deeply personal and intimate. We move from what we are saved from (condemnation) to who we have become. Our sermon title today is "Sons and Heirs: Our Glorious Adoption". Our central idea is this: Through the Spirit, we are adopted as God's beloved children, giving us an intimate relationship with Him and making us co-heirs with Christ.
I. Led by the Spirit, Sons of God (Romans 8:14)
Paul begins this section with a defining characteristic of a child of God. He writes, "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God".
So, what does it mean to be "led by the Spirit"?
Many people think this leading is always a dramatic vision, an audible voice, or an overwhelming emotional experience. While God can certainly work in those ways, the primary way the Spirit leads is far more consistent and practical. To be led by the Spirit means He is the one prompting us, strengthening us, and giving us the desire to follow God's will. He convicts us of sin, guides us into truth, and empowers us to live a life that pleases God. Think of a parent patiently guiding a child's hand as they learn to write; it is a gentle guidance and strengthening, not a forceful push.
Therefore, our ongoing response to the Spirit's leading—though imperfect—is the very evidence that we are truly children of God.
II. No Spirit of Slavery, But of Adoption (Romans 8:15)
Paul then clarifies the nature of this new relationship we have with God. He writes, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry out, 'Abba! Father!'".
* Freedom from Fear: Under the Old Covenant, the relationship with God was often marked by fear of His perfect holiness and judgment. Many of us carry this view today, seeing God as a stern judge just waiting for us to make a mistake. This is the "spirit of slavery," where we obey out of fear of punishment. It’s a life weighed down by performance, constantly trying to do enough to earn God's love or prevent His abandonment. But Paul says this is not the Spirit we have received.
* The Spirit of Adoption: Instead, we have received the "Spirit of adoption as sons". In Roman law during Paul's time, adoption was a powerful legal act. An adopted son was deliberately chosen and given the full rights, privileges, and inheritance of a natural-born son. His old life was erased, and he became a permanent member of his new family.
Imagine a child in an orphanage, with no family and no name. A loving family adopts him, giving him not just a home and food, but their name, their love, and the full inheritance of all they own. This is precisely what God has done for us.
* The Cry of Intimacy: "Abba! Father!": The greatest privilege of this adoption is the ability to cry out, "Abba! Father!". "Abba" is an Aramaic term of warm affection and deep trust, similar to "Daddy" or "Papa". It’s the name Jesus Himself used in the garden of Gethsemane. Because of what Christ has done, we who were once far off can now approach the Holy God of the universe with the intimate trust of a beloved child talking to their loving Father. We are no longer slaves; we are sons and daughters.
III. Co-Heirs with Christ (Romans 8:16-17)
This glorious truth gets even better. Because we are children, we are also heirs.
* The Spirit's Inner Witness: How can we be sure of this incredible status? Verse 16 says, "The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God". This is an inner assurance, a deep-seated conviction produced by the Holy Spirit within us, confirming what God's Word declares. It’s not a fleeting feeling we have to chase, but a testimony from God's Spirit to our own.
* An Unimaginable Inheritance: And if we are children, verse 17 declares, then we are "heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ". What is the inheritance of God? It is everything! His kingdom, His eternal life, His righteousness, and His very glory. We are not just adopted to be servants in the house; we are adopted to share in the family fortune. Everything that belongs to Jesus Christ as the Son is now shared with us.
* Sharing in Suffering and Glory: But this verse comes with a condition: "...if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together". This does not mean our suffering earns our inheritance. Rather, it means that sharing in Christ's sufferings is a normal part of the Christian life in a fallen world and a sign that we truly belong to Him. Here in the Philippines, we are no strangers to suffering—financial hardship, family problems, health issues. But the promise is this: if we are united with Christ in His suffering, we will absolutely be united with Him in His glory. Our suffering is temporary, but our glorification with Him is eternal.
Application: Living as a Beloved Child
What does this mean for us day-to-day?
* Approach God with Confidence: You no longer need to approach God with fear. You can pray with the confidence of a child speaking to your "Abba, Father," sharing your burdens, your fears, and your dreams with Him. He is a loving Father who listens.
* Live Secure in Your Identity: Your value is not based on your job, your social status, or what others think of you. Your identity is secure as a beloved child of God. This frees you from the crushing pressure to perform and impress others. You can walk with confidence, knowing that your identity in Christ is the only one that truly matters.
* Embrace Suffering with Hope: When trials come, remember they are not meaningless. They are part of the journey that unites you with Christ and leads to glory. This perspective gives us hope and endurance in the midst of hardship.
Conclusion
Brothers and sisters, the truth of our adoption is breathtaking. We have not just been saved from something; we have been brought into something—God's very own family. We are His children, privileged to call Him "Abba, Father," and destined to be co-heirs with His Son, Jesus Christ. Let this truth transform how you see yourself, your struggles, and your God. Go and live like the beloved child of God that you are.
Let us pray.
Abba, Father, thank you for the astounding love that would adopt us as Your own children. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who confirms in our hearts that we belong to You. Free us from all fear and doubt, and help us live with the confidence and security of being Your beloved children and heirs. May our lives bring glory and honor to Your name. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
