Introduction
Have you ever wondered what it means to be part of God's family? This week's sermon delved into the profound concept of spiritual adoption, revealing how we, though not of Jesus' bloodline, can become His family. Through the lens of personal stories and biblical teachings, we explored the transformative power of being "in Christ" and what it means to live as part of God's family.
What Does It Mean to Be Adopted by God?
Adoption is a powerful and emotional experience. Just as the pastor shared his personal joy of adopting his daughters, we too can experience a similar joy when we are adopted into God's family. Jesus Himself speaks of this in Mark 3:34-35, where He calls those who follow God's will His family. This spiritual adoption is not through birth but through faith in Christ.
How Do We Become Part of God's Family?
Romans 10:13 states, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." To be in Christ means to call upon Him, acknowledging our sins and accepting His sacrifice. When we stand before God, our good deeds, morality, or successes won't save us. Only by calling on Jesus and His sacrifice can we be saved and adopted into God's family.
The Transformation in Christ
What Changes When We Are in Christ?
Colossians 1:21-22 explains that we were once alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds. But through Jesus' death, we are reconciled and presented as holy, blameless, and above reproach before God. This transformation is profound. We exchange our brokenness for Jesus' righteousness, standing before God as though we have never sinned.
What Does It Mean to Be Sons and Daughters of God?
Romans 8:14-17 tells us that those led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. We receive the spirit of adoption, allowing us to call God "Abba, Father." This relationship is intimate and loving, making us heirs with Christ. We are not just part of any family; we are part of the best family, rooted in God's perfect love and sustained by His grace.
Living as Part of God's Family
What Is the Family Business of God?
Being part of God's family means participating in His work. Jesus said, "Whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother" (Mark 3:35). This means we must busy ourselves with God's work, which is to bring glory to Him in all we do. Whether it's through our professions, daily tasks, or interactions with others, everything should be done for God's glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).
How Do We Glorify God?
1. **Repentance and Faith**: Acknowledge our brokenness and turn back to God, glorifying Him by admitting our need for His grace.
2. **Accepting Jesus**: Honor the gift of Jesus by living in and for Him, recognizing that salvation is through Him alone.
3. **Living as Intended**: Follow God's design for our lives, loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31).
The Impact of Living for God's Glory
How Does the Family Business Grow and Strengthen the Family?
When we live for God's glory, two things happen: we become more like Jesus, and others are drawn to believe. Romans 15:7 encourages us to welcome others as Christ has welcomed us, for God's glory. This welcoming spirit and love for others will naturally lead to growth in the family of God.
How Are We Strengthened?
Living for God's glory also strengthens the family. We build each other up, bear one another's burdens, and encourage each other (1 Thessalonians 5:11, Galatians 6:10). This mutual support and love make the family of God a unique and powerful community.
Life Application
How Can We Apply This to Our Lives This Week?
1. **Reflect on Your Adoption**: Consider what it means to be adopted into God's family. How does this change your identity and how you live your life?
2. **Participate in the Family Business**: Find ways to glorify God in your daily activities. Whether at work, home, or in your community, do everything for His glory.
3. **Strengthen the Family**: Encourage and support fellow believers. Look for opportunities to build up and bear the burdens of others in your church community.
Questions to Ponder
1. **Am I living as a true member of God's family?**
2. **How can I bring more glory to God in my daily life?**
3. **In what ways can I support and strengthen my church family this week?**
By embracing our identity as God's children and living for His glory, we can experience the fullness of being part of the best family in all creation. Let's commit to living out this truth in our lives this week.
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Wednesday, August 14th
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