Scripture Reading: John 1:12–13
Introduction
A. When we talk about being a part of the family of God, what does that really mean? What does it mean that we are a family?
B. Is it supposed to be the same as the relationship that blood-related people are expected to have? Is it really that way?
Discussion
I.What is the family of God supposed to look like?
A. Members of God’s family listen to the Father and seek to do His will (Matthew 12:49–50; Romans 8:12–17).
B. The family of God is supposed to be united (Ephesians 4:1–6, 16; 2:11–18).
C. Members of God’s family provide for one another (James 2:15; Acts 4:36–37; 11:29–30).
D. Members of God’s family also offer loving correction to one another (Matthew 18:15–17; Galatians 6:1–3; 2 Corinthians 2:7–8).
II. Sometimes we may fail to be the family God wants us to be.
A. Division can occur even among those who possess the truth (1 Corinthians 1:10–13; 15:12; 11:17–22).
B. We fail when we seek personal glory instead of the good of God’s family (Acts 5:1–10; 3 John 9; Galatians 6:12–13).
C. We fail when we seek personal satisfaction instead of the wellbeing of our brethren (1 Corinthians 6:1–8).
Conclusion
A. Membership in God’s family will improve our other relationships as well (Colossians 3:18–25).
B. If you want to be a part of God’s family, you must be born into it (John 1:12–13; 3:5; 1 Corinthians 12:13).