1. Lesson 4:

2. Summary of Our Relationship in the Church Family We are all family…by faith (Gal. 3:26-27) We are all family…by birth (Gal. 3:26-27) We are all family…without distinction (Gal. 3:28) We are all family…by adoption (Gal. 3:29) We are all family…with one real, common purpose = CHRIST!

3. Summary of Our Relationship in the Church Family We are all family…in God’s “church family” – The family of God wants everyone to be in the family “Outsiders” (Matt. 28:18-20) “Insiders” (Gal. 6:1-2; Jas. 5:19-20) “The little children” (Matt. 19:13-14; 18:3; Mark 9:37) – The family of God gives each member the sense of belonging. Those “born” into a family know they “belong” in the family Those “coming in from outside” have a hard time feeling they belong Those “little ones growing up” have a hard time feeling they belong Every member “belongs to Christ” (Gal. 3:29 + 5:24, NASB) Every member “belongs to the family” (Rom. 12:5 + Gal. 6:10, NIV)

4. Summary of Our Relationship in the Church Family We are all family…in God’s “church family” – The family of God accepts each member despite being adopted Those “adopted” need special attention to feel they actually belong What happens if an “adopted” is never made to feel part of the family, is always reminded of being adopted & is always held at arm’s length? – The family of God loves each member despite being imperfect & annoying B/c the Father loves each member despite being imperfect & annoying We are still His, in His family! – “We’re part of the family that’s been born again!”