The Family as the Heart of Christ's Mission

Although the Son of God was to be born of a virgin, it was God’s design that this virgin be espoused to a husband. Heaven itself honoured the place of family. Even Jesus, the Son of God, was raised within the covering of a father’s love, so that He might grow in wisdom, stature, and favour before God and man. For God’s heart has always been for family.

If, for reasons beyond your control, you find yourself a single parent today, this message is not to condemn you. It is to remind you of God’s perfect will and loving intention for your life — that none should lack their mate, and that His grace is sufficient to restore, strengthen, and sustain you.

Christ is for the family. He called brothers into His ministry; James and John, sons of Zebedee; Andrew, brother to Simon Peter. He loved and often visited the family of Lazarus, with Mary and Martha. These homes were more than households; they were places where Jesus was the bond of unity. For while biological ties are powerful, they become even deeper and stronger when bound together by Christ’s love and the unity of faith.

When Jesus visited Zacchaeus, He did not say, “Today salvation has come to you,” but rather, “Today salvation has come to this house.” (Luke 19:9)

When the Philippian jailer stood at the edge of despair, ready to take his own life, Paul stopped him and that very night, the man believed, and he and all his household were saved. Time would fail to tell of Cornelius, or of Rahab, whose whole family was brought to safety. Again and again, Scripture declares this powerful truth: the salvation of God is unto you and your house.

Yet how often are we more zealous for the salvation of nations, while forgetting our own homes? Who is preaching to our families? Who is showing love to our households? Who is carrying the light of Christ into our living rooms?

This Christmas season, as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour, let us remember, it is a season about family. A season to mend weary marriages. To create time for our teenagers. To win back offended spouses. To rebuild broken bridges with parents and loved ones.

For Christ was born to strengthen the family, the nuclear family, and to restore God’s heart within the home.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved; you and your household.” (Acts 16:31)

“So they brought out Rahab, her father, her mother, her brothers, and all who belonged to her.” (Joshua 6:23)

This Christmas, let us take time to pray for our families. Let us mend what is broken. Let us forgive where there has been hurt. And let us share, first and foremost with our own, the transforming love of Christ.

May salvation begin in our houses and shine from there to the world.

At Thrive Missions, we are committed to helping you fulfill your God given purpose for your life through teaching the Word and prayer. If you need prayer or encouragement, contact us at robert@thrive-missions.org and one of our ministers will be in touch with you.