In the sermon "A Familial Spirit," preacher Mike McInnis discusses the doctrine of adoption and the intimate familial relationship believers have with Christ as their elder brother. He argues that this relationship is a result of God's sovereign election and predestination, citing Ephesians 1:4-6, which emphasizes that believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and adopted as children. McInnis further highlights the mystery of this union, illustrating how Christ's incarnation allows Him to serve as a faithful high priest (Hebrews 2:17-18) who understands human infirmity. The practical significance lies in the call for believers to embody this familial love in their relationships with one another, emphasizing that true evidence of faith is manifested in love for fellow brethren, as expressed in 1 John 3:14.
Key Quotes
“We speak of a union which the sons of God have with Him from before the foundation of the world.”
“The brethren are given a familial likeness to him who is their elder brother...that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
“He has left his people here in this world for a short season, giving them a familial spirit with those whom he has called his brethren.”
“Do you love and serve the brethren?”
The Bible teaches that believers are united as brethren through their relationship with Christ, who calls them His brothers.
The concept of believers being brothers in Christ is deeply rooted in scripture. In Hebrews 2:11, it is stated that both the one who sanctifies, namely Jesus, and those who are sanctified are all of one, emphasizing a familial relationship among believers. This union reflects a profound spiritual connection that transcends earthly relationships, rooted in the predestined choice of God before the foundation of the world, as articulated in Ephesians 1:4-5. This relationship is not only a privilege but also a mystery that reveals God's grace and intention for His creation, allowing believers to be called sons and daughters of God.
Hebrews 2:11, Ephesians 1:4-5
Predestination is affirmed in scripture, showing that God chose believers in Christ before creation for salvation.
The doctrine of predestination is a foundational element of Reformed theology, evident in passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5, where Paul explains that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world. This divine choice is based on God's purpose and grace, rather than human merit, emphasizing that salvation is entirely initiated and completed by God. God’s predestining grace is further illuminated in Romans 8:29, which states that those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. This underscores the certainty and reliability of God’s promises and His sovereign will in the salvation of His people, providing comfort and assurance to believers.
Ephesians 1:4-5, Romans 8:29
The familial spirit fosters unity and love among believers, reflecting Christ’s love and the nature of their relationship with God.
The concept of a familial spirit among Christians is vital as it encapsulates the essence of their identity in Christ. According to 1 John 3:14, we know we have passed from death to life because we love the brethren, highlighting that love for one another is the evidence of genuine faith. This familial bond is not merely emotional but is rooted in the truth of our shared experience in Christ and His sacrificial love for us. Moreover, the call to love one another as Christ loved us, as seen in John 13:34-35, is a command that exemplifies the unity and mutual support essential for the body of Christ. It reinforces the need for believers to actively express that love, leading to a vibrant and supportive community that reflects the character of God.
1 John 3:14, John 13:34-35
Christ as our High Priest signifies His role in reconciling us to God, empathizing with our struggles, and interceding for us.
Jesus Christ serves as our High Priest, a concept firmly established in Hebrews 4:14-16, which reassures us that He is able to empathize with our weaknesses, having been tempted in every way yet without sin. This designation indicates that Christ, through His incarnation, made Himself like us, enabling Him to be a merciful and faithful High Priest, as mentioned in Hebrews 2:17. His sacrificial atonement on the cross reconciles believers with God, allowing access to His grace and mercy in times of need. As our High Priest, He continually intercedes for us before the Father, symbolizing the completeness of the salvation He provides and assuring believers of their standing in grace.
Hebrews 4:14-16, Hebrews 2:17
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