The Family of God

When we become followers of Jesus, we also become part of the Family of God

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” - John 1:12

“Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” - Hebrews 2:11

Just as God is not LIKE a Father, He IS a Father, the Church is not LIKE a Family, it IS a Family

“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.” - Psalm 68:5-6

Families care, comfort, support, encourage, share, spend time, serve, pitch in

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” - 1 Corinthians 12:27

When the Church relates as a family, the Kingdom of God gets released

“Our Father… your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” - Matthew 6:9-10

Questions to Ponder

What was your like family growing up?

What has been your experience with the church relating as a family? Have you been encouraged, supported, cared for, or served? How do you encourage, support, care for, or serve others?

Are there people in the church that you know you can turn to in times of need?

What can you do to better relate as a family within the church?

Where in your life have you seen God’s kingdom get released because the church was functioning as a family?

Activity

Find a comfortable place to quiet your soul and your thoughts. Invite God’s Presence. Reflect on your experience in the Church. Take some time and ponder how God has made you part of His family. Think of the people with which He has surrounded you within the church. How can you see them–and treat them–as the brothers and sisters they truly are?

As God reveals some specific ways for you to relate to them, take steps to put them into action. On Sunday, reach out to a brother or sister that you have not yet met. Ask God to help you to see them as a precious part of the family.

Scripture Memory Verse

“Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” - Hebrews 2:11