Encounter #12:

God's Family (the Church) Matters

Read: Mark: 3:31-35

Jesus' mother and His brothers were outside the house asking to see Him. Jesus had half-brothers and sisters (see Matthew 13:55,56). They didn't believe that Jesus was Messiah and Savior until after His resurrection ( John 7:5). Then, on the Day of Pentecost they were in the Upper Room waiting for the Promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4). Jesus asked the multitudes around Him if they knew who were His mother and brothers. He said those who do God's will are part of His family. Believers in Jesus do the will of God from their hearts (Eph. 6:6).

Jesus was not disrespectful to His mother Mary, nor to His family. He knew His mother's care, love and devotion. Flesh and blood are important. But sometimes spiritual relationships are more closer. God loves family. The first family was Adam and Eve. Jesus was born into a family through a virgin called Mary. All who are born-again, that is, born from above by faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross are a part of God's household (1 Tim.3:15; 1 Peter 4:17). We belong to the household of faith (Gal. 6:10). We are called fellow citizens with the saints (Eph. 2:19). As children of God (Eph. 5:1; 1 John 3:1,2), we are His Temple (2 Corin.6:16) and children of His promises (Rom. 9:8).

As part of His family, that is the Church, we study His Word (the Bible) together (2 Tim.2:15); we continue in fellowship (Acts 2:42); we honor God through worshiping together (Psalm 34:3); we are accountable to one another (Pr. 27:17). By attending Church as God's Family we can support each other (Gal. 6:2); have opportunities to serve (Eph. 6:6,7), make disciples (Heb. 5:12) and we are protected from false teachings and wolves in sheep clothing (Mt. 7:15). As believers in Jesus, we are family.

Prayer: Thank you Heavenly Father that through Your Son, Jesus I am part of Your Family. It matters to me that I am accepted into this Family. Help me to do my part as Your child. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

Application: As a member of God's Family find ways to be a blessing.

Encounter Jesus: Jesus loves His Family. He loves you! Receive His love.