What does the term 'adoption' convey regarding one's relationship with God?

The term 'adoption' in the context of one's relationship with God signifies a profound transformation in status from being outside the family of God to becoming a beloved child of God. This concept is rooted in scripture, particularly in Galatians 4:4-7, which emphasizes that believers are not only redeemed but also adopted into God's family, receiving all the associated privileges.

Being accepted as a child of God with full privileges means that believers have access to the same standing and blessings in God's family as His natural children. This relationship encompasses a sense of belonging, acceptance, and inheritance, allowing believers to call God their Father. The privileges of adoption include assurance of salvation, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the rights to pray and communicate directly with God.

In contrast, the other choices reflect limited or distorted images of relationship with God, such as merely being a follower, church member, or servant. None of those options capture the intimate and transformative nature of adoption, which emphasizes both the relational and privileged aspects of being a child of God.