The New Family of Jesus

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Matthew 12:50 “Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!”

In our current culture, it’s common for two people or businesses to make an agreement and to seal the agreement by signing a contract. In the Scriptures, the word covenant is used far more frequently. A contract generally signifies a legal agreement, while a covenant signifies a spiritual agreement.

Interestingly, the relationship between God and His people often utilizes language that parallels a marriage covenant. This type of language continues today as the Church is sometimes referred to as “the bride of Christ” (e.g., Matthew 9:15, Revelation 21:2.)

As such, it should come as no surprise that Jesus regularly communicates that He sees His followers as family. The beauty of this type of language is that it indicates we are united with Christ. The Life Application Study Notes that in Matthew 12:46-50, Jesus wasn’t teaching that one’s family is of no importance. Instead, He was teaching that one’s spiritual family is just as important as their biological family. 

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 12:46-50, JAMES 2:1-13 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: In what ways are you currently growing in in your understanding and discernment to live out God’s will (Matthew 12:50, Matthew 6:10)? 

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Continue to live your life at the pace of your soul. Slow down in order to catch up to the pace in which God created you to live. 

Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that I’m still growing to understand what it fully means to live a life in complete and total union with You. Continue to help me see myself, others, and the world around me through Your eyes. Similarly, help me to move and live at a pace that is healthy for me, my family, and others. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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