Sonship Through Jesus Christ {Romans 8:14}

 Introduction:

1. Review Romans 8:1-13
2. "Sons of God" = first mention in Romans

I.          The Exclusive Factor of Sonship

A.        "These are" = only these are;

B.        The Bible makes it clear that the oft-embraced idea of "the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man" is false

1.         2 families: God's and John 8:44

2.         Further clarified {Jn 1:12; Eph 2:1, 11-13}

II.        The Inclusive Factor of Sonship

A.        "Anyone/everyone" who has the Spirit of Christ {8:9}

B.        Yes, varying degrees of growth but verses 15-17!

III.       The Monergistic Factor of Sonship

A.        As with being born again -- 1 Jn 3:9a w/ Jn 3:1-8

B.        So it is with being a part of god's family {Eph 3:1-6}

C.        Implications:

1.         Children:

(a)        Nature of the Father {2 Peter 1:4}

(b)        Disposition of the Father {Matt 5:44-48}

2.         Father:

(a)        Loves uniquely {1 Jn 3:1}

(b)        Takes special interest {Heb 2:10}

(c)        Co concerned that He chastens {Heb 12:6-10}

(d)       Provides, cares for, protects {Deut 33:26-27}

(e)        Always ready to receive, listen to, grant His blessing {Lk 11:13} w/ Matt 7:11}

** No wonder we run to the Throne of Grace ** {Hebrews 4:16}

IV.       The Assurance Factor Of Sonship

A.        Stated plainly: "led by the Spirit of God"

1.         Analogy- Exodus 13:21-22 w/ 40:34-38

2.         Primarily this done by the Spirit through the Word of God {Jn 14:17; 17:17}

B.        Experienced practically

1.         Spiritual outlook

2.         Love for other Christians

3.         Desire to live for God's glory {1 Cor 10:31}

4.         Desire to grow {Jn 16:14; 2 Pet 3:18}

5.         Soul-sorrow

6.         Soul pursuit {Heb 12:14}

7.         Manifesting the fruit of the Spirit {Gal 5:22-23}

V.        Therefore

A.        Christians: be encouraged

B.        Non-Christians: come on into the family today {Jn 1:12}