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Daily Devotions

Romans

Romans 
Day 
Day 171

"Led by the Spirit..."

Text: Romans 8:14

THE GIFT OF SONSHIP

What a glorious gift we have from God! The doctrine of sonship (“adoption”) is a well-taught doctrine in the Scriptures. The following texts stand out.

1. The offer of sonship by the Lord Jesus

This was offered on the authority of the Lord Jesus Himself.

“But as many as received Him,
to them He gave the right to become children of God.”
John 1:12

The word “right” may be literally translated as “authority”.

2. The assurance of sonship by the Father

Paul cited freely from the Old Testament when he wrote these words

“I will be a Father to you,
and you shall be My sons and daughters,
says the LORD Almighty.”
2 Corinthians 6:18

a) The focus is on the Fatherhood of God.
b) The texts that Paul drew from may be 2 Samuel 7:14 and Jeremiah 31:9.
c) The immediate contexts are quite different but the underlying truth is essentially the same: God’s offer of Fatherhood.
i) To David’s sons (Cf. 2 Samuel 7:14)
ii) To redeemed Israel (Cf. Jeremiah 31:9)

LEADING OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD

Added to the privilege of being God’s children is this precious promise.

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,
these are the sons of God.”
Romans 8:14

1. Promise of leading by the Spirit of God

What a tremendous promise this is! God does not only offer sonship alone. He also makes provision for His sons to be led by the Spirit of God.

2. Proof of sonship

The leading of the Spirit of God is actually phrased in such a way that it is seen as proof of genuine sonship. What a challenge this is to the heart! Let us be deeply encouraged to discover how the Spirit of God actually leads us in our life and ministry.