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adoptionism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /əˈdɒpʃənɪzəm/

KK: /əˈdɑpʃənˌɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A belief that Jesus became the Son of God at a certain point in his life, rather than being divine from birth.


Example

Adoptionism is a theological belief that has been debated throughout Christian history.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of adoptionism?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's that belief about Jesus becoming the Son of God, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how different beliefs can shape our understanding of history.
Sloth B
Me too! It's interesting to see how these doctrines influence people's faith.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
acceptance
embrace
integration
Antonyms
rejection
abandonment
disavowal
Root Explanation

Adoptionism → It is formed from "adoptio" (from Latin, meaning the act of adopting) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a doctrine or belief). The term "adoptionism" refers to the belief that Jesus was adopted as the Son of God, rather than being divine by nature.

Memory Tip

Think of the act of 'adopting' ('adoptio') someone into a family, which helps you remember that 'adoptionism' is about the belief in Jesus being adopted as the Son of God.

Visually Confused Words
adaptionism
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