Introduction
- God formed the family at the very beginning. It is a critical relationship.
- God uses “family” in both physical and spiritual relationships.
- I Corinthians 4:14-17 – Paul uses familial terms about them and about Timothy.
- I Timothy 3:4-5 – Family is involved in the qualifications for an elder.
Love each other!
- Matthew 22:37-40 – Love for others is one of the greatest commandments.
- Matthew 5:43-46 – Love even your enemies. If your family members are your enemies, love them also!
- John 3:16 – God loved the world full of sinners!
- Romans 5:6-8 – God loved us while we were sinners. My love should be based on God, who loves all unconditionally. God demonstrates His love. He is active in His love. If I love my family, I will take action.
Sacrifice for each other!
- Hebrews 13:16, 15 – Doing good and sharing are sacrifices that God is pleased with.
- Worshiping God is good, but we have obligations beyond that.
- When is the last time you sacrificed in some way for your family?
- Philippians 2:4 – Look out for the interests of others.
- John 15:12-13 – If Jesus sacrificed His life for sinners, what will I sacrifice for my family?
Help and encourage each other!
- I Thessalonians 2:7, 11 – Paul said he was as close as a nursing mother to them.
- I Timothy 5:1-2 – Help and encourage others like family.
- Galatians 6:1-2 – Help bear one another’s burdens.
- Proverbs 17:17
Forgive each other!
- Matthew 6:12-15 – If we do not forgive others, God will not forgive us! See also Colossians 3:13; Ephesians 4:32.
- II Corinthians 2:6-8 – When one comes back and makes things right, forgive and rejoice!
- Parents, help your children to feel sorry rather than forcing them to say they are sorry. The words will come if the thoughts are sincere.