What does it mean to become a child of God according to the Bible?

Becoming a child of God is one of the most profound and transformative experiences described in the Bible. This concept is not merely a metaphor but a deeply spiritual reality that signifies a new identity, a new relationship, and a new way of living. To understand what it means to become a child of God, we need to delve into several key biblical passages and explore their theological implications.

Firstly, becoming a child of God is intrinsically linked to the concept of being "born again." In the Gospel of John, Jesus explains this to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council. Jesus says, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again" (John 3:3, NIV). This rebirth is not a physical one but a spiritual transformation that occurs when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It signifies a radical change in one's spiritual status and identity.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in his letters. In Romans 8:14-17, Paul writes, "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory" (NIV). Here, Paul introduces the idea of adoption, which was a well-known legal practice in Roman society. Adoption conferred all the rights and privileges of natural-born children, including inheritance. By using this metaphor, Paul emphasizes that becoming a child of God is not about natural descent but about a divine act of grace.

The concept of adoption also highlights the relational aspect of being a child of God. It is not just a change in status but also a new relationship with God as our Father. The term "Abba" is an Aramaic word that conveys intimacy and affection, similar to "Daddy" in English. This relational dimension is crucial because it underscores the personal nature of our connection with God. We are not distant subjects but beloved children who can approach God with confidence and trust.

Moreover, becoming a child of God involves a transformation in our moral and ethical life. In Ephesians 5:1-2, Paul exhorts believers, "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (NIV). As children of God, we are called to imitate our heavenly Father, reflecting His love, holiness, and righteousness in our daily lives. This is not about adhering to a set of rules but about embodying the character of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle John also addresses this in his first epistle. He writes, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure" (1 John 3:1-3, NIV). John emphasizes the transformative power of God's love and the hope of future glorification. As children of God, we are in a process of becoming more like Christ, a journey that culminates in our ultimate transformation when He returns.

Furthermore, becoming a child of God has communal implications. It means becoming part of the family of God, the Church. In Galatians 3:26-28, Paul writes, "So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (NIV). This passage highlights the unity and equality that characterize the family of God. Regardless of our earthly distinctions, we are all equally valued and loved as children of God. This unity is both a gift and a responsibility, calling us to live in harmony and mutual love.

The writings of early Church Fathers and theologians also shed light on this concept. For instance, St. Augustine in his work "Confessions" speaks of the profound joy and peace that comes from knowing oneself as a child of God. He writes, "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you." This restlessness finds its resolution in the secure and loving relationship with God as our Father.

C.S. Lewis, in his book "Mere Christianity," also explores the idea of becoming children of God. He writes, "The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God." Lewis emphasizes the transformative power of Christ's incarnation and atonement, which makes it possible for us to be adopted into God's family.

In addition to these theological insights, the practical implications of being a child of God are immense. It means living with a sense of purpose and destiny, knowing that we are part of God's redemptive plan for the world. It means experiencing the assurance of God's love and the security of His promises. It means participating in the mission of God, sharing the good news of His love and grace with others.

To sum up, becoming a child of God according to the Bible involves a profound spiritual transformation, a new relational identity, a call to moral and ethical living, a sense of communal belonging, and a participation in God's redemptive mission. It is a multifaceted concept that touches every aspect of our being and shapes our entire existence. As we embrace this identity and live it out, we experience the fullness of life that God intends for us, both now and for eternity.