Why has the doctrine of adoption received so little attention in Reformed theology?

In this live episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by Jonathan Master and Matt Holst at Shiloh Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, to discuss John L. Girardeau's rich and pastoral treatment of adoption. The conversation explores why adoption should not be collapsed into justification or regeneration, how it addresses our alienation from God, and why it matters so deeply for prayer, suffering, assurance, and the Christian life.

Along the way, the panel reflects on Girardeau's life and ministry, Adam's original sonship, Christ's filial obedience, the believer's inheritance in Christ, and the comfort of knowing God not only as Judge, but as Father.

This is a warm and theologically substantial discussion on one of the most beautiful and neglected doctrines in Scripture.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and live recording at Shiloh OPC
01:45 Why discuss John L. Girardeau on adoption?
03:12 Who was John L. Girardeau?
09:52 Why adoption is such an important doctrine
14:05 Why adoption has been neglected in Reformed theology
17:50 Courtroom and family room: justification and adoption
23:19 Adam's original sonship and what was lost in the fall
27:07 Christ's sonship and key Christological distinctions
33:14 The pastoral comfort of adoption
37:33 Adoption, suffering, and inheritance
41:17 God's name on his people and the hope of glory
43:24 How adoption transforms prayer
50:11 The Father's generosity toward his children
53:04 Final reflections and conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master, Matt Holst