Paul’s writing to the church at Ephesus says the following.
A kindred expression is found in 1 Timothy.
Since the Holy Spirit has compared the church to a family, there must be some aspects of the church which would be characteristic of a family. While we can expect some resemblances, we must be careful not to push the analogy too far.
A. Each family has a name.
This is the way we identify each other. If I want to call you on the phone, I look up your name in the directory and identify you by your name. Such is the case of the family God. The child of God is identified by his name. Our name is Christian. This name identifies us and sets us apart from all others outside of the family of God.
In Acts 11:26, we find that the disciples “Were called Christians first in Antioch.” Therefore, this name has been the official name of God’s family name from the very beginning of Christianity.
B. Those outside of the family are not a part of the family.
To be outside of the family of God is a serious matter; we are then outside the place where salvation can be found.
Also, we should consider that sometimes a child willfully leaves his family, as the prodigal son did his family. We, too, can become prodigals.
C. There are many blessings to be found with a family.
There is security, protection, guidance, training, etc. Those who are outside God’s family cannot enjoy the many spiritual blessings God has provided for those in His family.
D. The family is a unit.
This is one reason why the family is so vital to the existence of civilisation. The family is the building block of a nation. All civilisations are built on units of families.
As the family goes, so goes the nation. It is the most basic unit of society. This is also true of the family of God. We are a unit. When we all function as a unit, we all prosper.
E. Usually, a father leaves an inheritance to the members of his family.
Thus, we have an inheritance. This is true of the family of God. We, too, have an inheritance.
No earthly inheritance can begin to compare with what we will receive in heaven.
A. First, there is the parent-child relationship.
This is a very tender and important relationship. Our first impressions in this world come from our parents. In today’s world, we see so many abandoned children by parents who never give their children quality time during their waking hours.
Our relationship with our Heavenly Father is very special. He has promised He will never leave us or forsake us. He has promised to be with us even unto the end of time. We can depend upon His love and tender care for His children. Children usually have some of the looks and characteristics of their parents.
We are also told that we can “partake of His divine nature,” 2 Peter 1:4. What a thrilling thought that we will be like Him.
God wants us to express our desires and wants. He has many blessings to bestow on us just for the asking. However, when we ask, we must never doubt. Doubt and unbelief will render our prayers useless.
B. There is the child-child relationship.
Children must learn at an early age to respect each member of the family. They have to learn how to cooperate, share and help one another. Speaking of God’s spiritual family, Paul wrote the following.
Respect in God’s family for the rights of others is basic to a happy family. When members become self-centred, demanding their way there will always be in trouble.
C. Finally, there is the family-community relationship.
The community will never rise above the families that live in that community. The family of God can greatly influence the community. We have opportunities to care for the poor and downtrodden. We often have the opportunity to lead a community by a good example. We can let our light shine in such a way that people sit up and take notice.
We are the salt of the earth.
The contrast is so great between the world and walking in the light with the Lord. We can be a great influence on others. We are also the light of the world.
Our light cannot be hidden. In a world that is so plunged in darkness, many would welcome the light we have to share with them.
The world so desperately needs this light today.
A. There are two ways one may come into a family. One is by adoption, the other by birth.
B. Both of these terms are used in discussing entrance into the family of God.
C. One becomes a newborn babe in the kingdom.
Would you not like to be born into this great family of God now? There will never be a better time or opportunity. God wants you as His child. But you must be willing to let Him adopt you into His family.