Paul's words are radical. When he wrote them, women didn't have the rights of honor and heirship that sons did. This verse, however, declares all followers of Jesus, men and women, have the rights of sonship and heirship. We are children of God, with all the rights and honors of full heirs! Our faith, expressed in our baptism, declares to the world that we are God's children, his sons by right. It doesn't matter if we are young or old, rich or poor, male or female, bond or free; we have chosen to be clothed in Christ and his righteousness. We do not depend on earning our own salvation. It is given us along with our heirship. He is our salvation and hope. He is our life and strength. He is our older brother and Savior. He is our Lord.
My Prayer...
Thank you, dear Father, for adopting me into your family. How can I thank you for all you have done to make me your child and a rightful heir to your glorious riches of grace? Thank you, dear Jesus, for your sacrifice that brought me into your family. In your name, O Jesus, do I offer my prayer and my praise. Amen.
"[Talking to Jewish leaders who opposed him, Jesus continued,] "Your approval means nothing to me, because I know you don't have God's love within you...."
"The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation [about their killing the Messiah and disobeying God's law], and they shook their fists at...."
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