Theory question 109
New Life in ChristSection C (Themes from Selected Epistles)
(a) Highlight Paul's teaching that Christians are children of God (b) Give two implications of the doctrine of Sonship of God for Christians.
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(a) In Christ Jesus all are sons of God through faith (Galatians 3:26).
Those baptised into Christ have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27).
There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female; all are one in Christ (Galatians 3:28).
Those who belong to Christ are Abraham's offspring and heirs (Galatians 3:29).
Before, like minor heirs, they were slaves to the elemental spirits (Galatians 4:1-3).
God sent His Son to redeem those under the law so that they might receive adoption as sons (Galatians 4:4-5).
God sent the Spirit of His Son into their hearts crying "Abba! Father!" (Galatians 4:6).
So they are no longer slaves but sons and heirs (Galatians 4:7).
All led by the Spirit are sons of God, fellow heirs with Christ (Romans 8:14-17).
(b) Any two: Christians must live holy lives worthy of God; all believers are equal, so no discrimination; freedom from slavery to sin and the law; assurance of inheritance and eternal life; boldness to call God Father in prayer; they share Christ's sufferings and glory.
Use Galatians 3:26–4:7 and Romans 8, then two implications.