In part 7 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael shares the moving story of Roxie's adult adoption to illustrate what God does for us through Jesus. We're not just forgiven criminals - we're adopted heirs with a new identity, a new family, and a secure place in God's household forever. Through Roman adoption practices, we discover the full meaning of becoming children of God.
Key Points- Roman adoption was permanent and gave full rights as heirs - adopted children could never be disinherited
- When we trust in Jesus, God rewrites our birth certificate and makes us permanent family members
- Joining God's family means leaving the world's toxic family system that rejects Him
- If we trust Jesus, we are children of God NOW, though what we will become hasn't yet been fully revealed
- Sanctification is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit
Main TakeawayYou're not just rescued from sin - you're adopted as a son. God doesn't merely forgive; He creates family. We don't seek purity to get into the family, but because we ARE in the family.
Memorable Quotes- "You're not just rescued from sin — you're adopted as a son."
- "When Jesus saved you, He didn't just spring you out of slavery or bail you out of death row; He rewrote your birth certificate."
- "Better to be black sheep in The Family of God than the golden calf in a family that rejects God."
- "A Gospel that does not require surrender of self is not The Gospel."
- "God's Love does not merely forgive; it creates family."
- "You're not just pardoned — you're adopted. You're not just forgiven — you're family."
Reflection QuestionDo you see yourself as merely a forgiven sinner, or as a fully adopted child of God with permanent status in His family?
Tune in to hear the touching story of Roxie's adult adoption and discover how Roman adoption practices reveal the permanent, transformative nature of becoming God's child.
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