The spirit of sonship is so called because it is those who are led by the Spirit of God that are sons of God (verse 14). The word ‘sonship’ (huiothesia) is rendered ‘adoption as sons’ in verse 23. ‘In Christ Jesus’ believers ‘are all sons (and daughters) of God, through faith’ (Gal. 3:26), but their full instatement or manifestation as such will coincide with the resurrection (verses 19–23 below). The Spirit empowers them to anticipate this future consummation and to appreciate their present relationship