“Family” is a concept understood all over the world, in every country, culture, and language, but no two families are the same. We all have our unique family structures, quirks, traditions, values, problems, and dysfunctions. It's not always easy to love our families (or even like them sometimes), but the Bible is full of guidance on how to love each other well — we just have to be willing to apply that at home. In this 4-week series, we’ll take a look at some of the lessons learned by Jesus-followers in the early days of the church, because learning how to be part of God’s family might help us learn how to be part of our own families. In God’s family, we support each other, pray for each other, reconcile with each other, and love each other.
Click on the weekly topics below for the big ideas, Scripture, and questions. And be sure to click the button for the student devotionals.
Week 1
Big Idea: In God's family we support each other.
Scripture: Galatians 5:13–14 & 22-23, 6:1–3 & 9-10; Matthew 11:28–30
Follow-up Questions:
- Describe our family in one word.
- Why do you think it’s so easy for us to notice our family members’ faults? What do you think they would say about your faults?
- What is one way I can support you this week?
Week 2
Big Idea: In God's family we pray for each other.
Scripture: Colossians 1:1–14; I Thessalonians 5:16–18; Philippians 4:6
Follow-up Questions:
- What are some ways prayer could help change our attitude when we’re in a bad mood?
- What did you notice about the way Paul prayed for other Jesus-followers (Colossians 1:1-14)?
- How can I be praying for you this week?
Week 3
Big Idea: In God's family we reconcile with each other.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:31-5:2; Colossians 1:21–22; Hebrews 12:14
Follow-up Questions:
- What do you think it means to “reconcile” with someone? How did Jesus do that for us?
- When is it easy for you to reconcile with a family member? When is it difficult?
- Is there someone in our family you need to reconcile with?
Week 4
Big Idea: In God's family we love each other.
Scripture: I John 3:16-18, 4:7–12; John 15:9–17; I Corinthians 13:4-7
Follow-up Questions:
- What’s something you really love right now?
- How does God use words to let us know we’re loved? How do God’s actions let us know we’re loved?
- What are some specific ways we can “lay down our lives” for the people in our families?