Abstract
Romans 8:16 states that it is the “Holy Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God;” the testimonial quality of the Holy Spirit is thus linked to divine adoption. This thesis defends the following position in regards to divine adoption and the testimony of the Holy Spirit: a life lived in relationship with the Holy Spirit functions as a witness to both the disciple himself and to others as to the divine adoption that the disciple has received, and this can be seen through the manifestation of the fruits of the Spirit, the gifts of the Spirit, and the charismatic gifts. This thesis uses primarily scriptural analysis as well as Thomas Aquinas and Augustine to support its argument. First, it examines the ways in which the Holy Spirit bears witness as well as its connection to divine adoption. Then, it connects this to an under-utilized image of the Holy Spirit: a ring. Just as a ring can bear witness to different realities like authority and relationship, so too does the Holy Spirit function like a ring to bear witness to the divine adoption that has been received. This thesis then examines different ways in which that can be manifested, especially through the fruits of the Spirit, the gifts of the Spirit, and the charismatic gifts. It concludes by offering opportunities for further research, as well as reaffirming the need for ongoing pneumatological development, in light of the Second Vatican Council and other recent developments in the field.