The Spirit of Adoption
Rev. Cornelius Hanko expounds Romans 8:15 to explain how the Holy Spirit works in believers' hearts, producing the cry "Abba, Father" as evidence of salvation and sonship in Christ. Through this Pentecost sermon, Hanko explores the Spirit's role in mortifying sin, assuring believers of their election and eternal security, and enabling genuine Christian living rooted in the work of the Spirit rather than fear.
Rev. Cornelius Hanko (5 June, 1960) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father (Rom. 8:15). Today we commemorate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as He was poured out upon the church on Pentecost. Our text speaks of that Spirit as the Spirit of adoption. In contrast, He reminds us that this is not a spirit of bondage again to fear, but the Spirit of adoption, which eliminates all fear. It is the...