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Adoption
        an expression used by St. Paul in reference to the present and prospective privileges of Christians. Ro 8:15,23; Ga 4:5; Eph 1:5 He probably alludes to the Roman custom by which a person not having children of his own might adopt as his son one born of other parents. The relationship was to all intents and purposes the same as existed between a natural father and son. The term is used figuratively to show the close relationship to God of the Christian. Ga 4:4,5; Ro 8:14-17 He is received into God's family from the world, and becomes a child and heir of God.


Bibliography Information
Smith, William, Dr "Meaning and Definition for 'adoption' in Smiths Bible Dictionary".
bible-history.com - Smith's; 1901.

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