Family of God

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Normally, when you address someone as a “brother or sister” who is not of the same biological root, it implies that – he/she is special whether through legal means such as an adoption or “god-fathering” or some other unique relationship. Through family relationship, ties are developed and cultivated into enduring bonds. This special relationship enables you to love and care for one another beyond what is normally expected. Most of us have experienced this wonderful relationship in our lifetime.

However, when our Lord Jesus calls us “brothers and sisters” what are the significance and implications for us? “Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters” (Heb. 2:11). What a privilege to belong to “the same family” as Jesus and to be called “children of God”. We are saved and made holy purely by the grace of God. Do most Christians realise the significance of this statement? This family relationship stretches in time and into eternity. Our sins are forgiven, we are children of God and we all have the same Father as our Lord Jesus.

Those who believe in Jesus belong to this family of God. What are some of the responsibilities that go with this privilege? A few suggestions for us to live the full Christian life would include:

  1. We must recognize that Jesus is the Head of God’s house and all instructions on how we live must only come from Him.
  2. We have a common goal and must seek to live in peace and harmony with one another so that the glory of God can readily be manifested in our lives.
  3. We must learn to love, share with and care for one another and recognise that this family of God is a very important for our lives.
  4. We recognise that the world and its corrupt system are against us. We must encourage one another during trials and suffering – we spur one another on to stand up for Jesus.
  5. Above all, we must remain united in the face of adversities and bring glory to God.

It is wonderful to belong to this Family of God. Children of God must live their lives in complete trust and obedience to God our Father to bring Him glory? Trust and obey – for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus!