1. The Importance of Family at Christmas
Matthew 1:16-25 and other texts

2. Christmas is generally considered a significant family holiday
We look forward to getting together
We have cherished family traditions and activities
We cherish the memories made
Have you thought about how important the family really is?

3. 1. God patterned family after His own relationship
The defining question: Which came first?
God’s relationship with His Son or the human relationship we know?
He came up with the design and pattern
He designed man and woman to function as family
He gave an example of how it should function

4. 2. God designated family as the foundation for society
He made a safe environment for children to develop
He designed the family to function for humans, even animals, according to their need & His intention
He provided laws for families to fare well
He expects families to continue in this form and fashion

5. 3. God utilizes family to accomplish His will
God orchestrated all of history to function through family
God designed man & family so His Son could become a man and dwell as man in a family
God has determined to use families even though all families are somewhat dysfunctional
The church is also to function as a healthy family