Birthmarks of Adoption

Thesis: As humans, we are always on a quest for validation - children saying 'look mom and dad", employees looking for a "well done", etc. Even Christians often ponder about their salvation - "Am I really saved?". This passage reminds us that their are no imperatives towards salvation - we are secure in what Christ has done for us!

We are saved simply by believing in Jesus - it's not a formula, confusing law and gospel, being misled by material blessings or sufferings. By His work in saving us and adopting us into His family, the Holy Spirit can witness to our salvation:

1. LIVING IN THE SPIRIT (v. 12-13)

   • Mortification of sin - enabled by Spirit
     to kill sin, not self-help disciplines
     • grace abounding heart
     • weaken root/habit of sin
     • commune with Christ
   • encouragement in promise - you will live!

2. LEAD BY THE SPIRIT (v. 14-15)

   • Not self thought inklings :
     (Proverbs 14:12,16:25)
   • Spirit leads away from fear of sin
   • Leads us to realize our adoption
   • Leads us to intimacy with God

3. WITNESSED BY THE SPIRIT (v. 16-17)

   • adoption --> children of God (John 1:12)
   • hope despite suffering
   • Inheritance = fellow heirs with Christ