Culture of my Family: Love for Each Other

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.