A Strong Family in Christ
Introduction:
Acts
20:25-35 – Paul’s final exhortation to Ephesian elders. 20:36-38 –
time for Paul to go. Tender emotion expressed here. Obviously strong, close
relationships between brethren seen here. One of the greatest benefits of
Christianity in our present life is the relationship we have with one another. Think
for a moment. How has your life
been touch by strong and meaningful relationships in Christ? How would your
life be different if it were not for the relationships you have in Christ?
I. Acknowledge people.
A.
16:3-4 –
Priscilla and Aquila.
B.
Can you see it?
Feel it? Extended generous greetings to brethren in Christ.
C.
When we do this
effectively, we can be a blessing to those who really need it.
1.
We all need it.
D.
What do we mean
by “acknowledge?”
1.
Done through
gift of hospitality; being together in homes, places outside of church, bible
studies, etc.
E.
When we do this,
what are we communicating?
1.
In my book, you
count. You are worth something. I want to spend time with you. I care about
what you think, what you feel, what you believe.
F.
Who can/should
we think of to acknowledge?
1.
Church
leadership; deacons; preacher; etc.
2.
Bible class
teachers, etc.
3.
Single moms,
older Christians, bible class participants, etc.?
II. Commend accomplishments
A.
16:1-2 –
Paul commends Phoebe.
B.
We do this today
by the words we speak.
1.
We have, with
the power of our tongue, the power to change/encourage people for the better…or
destroy them.
2.
This is why we
have numerous passages in scripture urging us to mind our tongue. See James 3; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians
4:4-6
III. We express affection.
A.
16:16 –
warm, friendly greeting.
1.
This is a basic
admonition to pay attention to and greet each other.
B.
Affection
demonstrated through human touch.
C.
We have
“untouchables” today. Many yearn for human touch & seldom receive it.
IV. We confer a blessing.
A.
Blessings were
common in first century. Bible
times.
1.
Romans 15:33; 1
Corinthians 16:23-24; Galatians 6:18
B.
How do you feel
about conferring a blessing on someone?
1.
Blessing is
simply asking God’s favor on someone else.
C.
Isn’t this what
God has done for us?
1.
Through Jesus,
God has conferred a blessing on us.
2.
God has
acknowledged each one of us as important – John 3:16.
Conclusion:
A.
Today, we have
looked at a somewhat obscure passage of scripture – one that we often
pass over and give hurried consideration to.
B.
There are so
many wonderful blessings God has given us through Christ.
C.
One of them, the
most important, is salvation.
D.
Are you in a
relationship with God?