by Rev. Ben Eder
There is much discussion today about the state of the family. We are justifiably concerned about the level of dysfunction in many families, as well as societal and cultural pressures being placed upon the traditional family. In the midst of our stress and anxiety, where do we turn?
In times like these, it is good to be reminded of our membership in God’s family. Please read the following Scripture passages and see how you fit into the family of God.
Read Matt. 6:9; John 17:1. How does Jesus address the head of God’s family?
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Another word is used for father in the Holy Scriptures. Read Mark 14:36; Rom. 8:15–17; Gal. 4:4–7. What is it? This word denotes the relationship between child and “Daddy.” When you think of God the Father as “Daddy,” does that change, or affect, your understanding of “God the Father” in any way?
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Since God is our “Father,” or “Daddy,” what word does He use to describe us? Read Eph. 5:8; Phil. 2:15; 1 John 3:1–2.
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Read Mark 9:33–37. How did Jesus respond to children? What implications does this have for us, especially in regard to bringing our children to God’s house?
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Through what means are people brought into the family of God (Acts 2:38–39; 16:31–34)?
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In what way are all people to approach Christ (see Mark 10:13–16)?
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Now, contrast that with Paul’s statement in 1 Cor. 13:11. What is the difference between a childlike faith and a childish approach to God?
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Although we are commanded to honor our father and mother (Ex. 20:12) and uphold families in general, who are we to place first in our lives (Matt. 10:34–39)? How can we reconcile our love for our earthly families with our love for Jesus?
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While we are called to love our earthly families, the reality is that at least some of our family members do not know or believe in Jesus. What was Andrew’s response when he discovered Jesus (John 1:35–42)?
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The family of God is made up of true believers from every time and place who worship God the Father, Jesus as Brother, and the Holy Spirit as Comforter. Let’s make it our mission (while here on earth) to reach every family member and friend with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that as many as possible may believe and be counted as members of this heavenly family.