Being a child of God means having a new identity through the new birth, with the rights and privileges that come from God.
The term 'child of God' is rooted in the belief that those who receive Christ and believe in His name are granted the right to be so called (John 1:12). This new status signifies a profound change in identity, moving from being part of Adam's fallen lineage to being part of God's family. It highlights the privileges of being loved, accepted, and inheriting the promises of God. Additionally, as stated in 1 John 3:1, the love of the Father bestows upon us this identity, making us distinct in the world as His chosen and cherished ones.
Scripture References:
John 1:12, 1 John 3:1, 1 John 5:1, John 1:12-13, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 4:6-7, Romans 8:16-17, Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:14-17, Lamentations 3, Romans 8:17, Galatians 3:26, Luke 5:20, Matthew 9:2
Commentary