Family First
The Bible has much to say about believers in the Church. Different pictures were used to describe the Church. Some of these are a building, a bride, a body, and a bastion. But, the one picture that might be most endearing is the picture of the brethren. The New Testament draws lessons from the relationship in a family for our relationship with each other. Just like in a family sibling rivalry exists, at times a little misunderstanding can happen in a local church. And, just like in a family, we will defend our family to the end, so also in a local church we should be prepared to stand up for one another. Families are a great metaphor for the Church.
Many years ago Bill Gaither wrote a song we sing quite often. Some of the words are, “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God. I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood. Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod, For I’m part of the family, the family of God.” This family is precious to us. We have members of our family around the world that we haven’t met. Yet, this is not the family I want to talk about.
I doubt anyone would disagree with me that the family is under attack. More than ever the family unit is being maligned and redefined. Society is pushing the make up and purpose of the family unit far from a biblical model. G. K. Chesterton once said, “The family is the test of freedom.” Where did the family come from? Why does it exist? How is it formed? These and other questions will be considered as we continue our way through Ephesians 5.
Two main functions will be seen in these verses. The first one is the roles of the husband and wife. Paul will spell out how this relationship should function. Remember, he was addressing a culture quite immoral and pagan. Ephesus was the headquarters for the worship of Diana. The people who made up the church were coming from lives of debauchery and depravity. They did not grow up in a “christian home” or a “christian society.” They had to learn first hand how the home should be a reflection of Christ and the Church. What a change this represents for them. What a testimony it would have been to see the dramatic difference their families would make.
The second relationship referred to is the parent and child. Some married couples will not have children. God is the One who opens and closes the womb. But, those who are blessed with children carry a huge weight of responsibility. The home should the breeding ground of faith as the children see genuine faith being lived out. One author said this, “The family circle is the supreme conductor of Christianity.” We as parents are to be raising our children to love the Lord. Will they all follow the Lord? No. But, it is our responsibility to be the first one to share the Gospel.
Family; we all have one. It may not be the best, and it may not even be Christian. But, we can change that cycle. Love your family and give thanks for them.
Tags: Christ, Ephesians, families, family, Gaither, God, Jesus, together
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