Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being part of the "household of God" is a profound privilege granted to the saints, those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. This privilege is deeply rooted in the New Testament teachings and reflects the intimate relationship between believers and God, as well as the communal bond among the saints.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, articulates this privilege clearly: "So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household" (Ephesians 2:19). This passage highlights the transition from alienation to belonging, emphasizing that believers are not merely acquaintances of God but integral members of His family. Adoption as Children of God The notion of being part of God's household is closely linked to the doctrine of adoption. In Romans 8:15, Paul writes, "For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" . This adoption signifies a legal and relational change, where believers are granted the rights and privileges of children, including intimacy with God and access to His promises. Unity and Fellowship Being of the household of God also implies a unique unity and fellowship among believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, Paul describes the church as one body with many members, all baptized by one Spirit into one body. This unity transcends ethnic, social, and cultural barriers, creating a diverse yet harmonious family under God. Access to God As members of God's household, saints enjoy direct access to God. Hebrews 10:19-22 encourages believers to "enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus" , signifying the privilege of approaching God with confidence and assurance. This access is not based on human merit but on the redemptive work of Christ, who serves as the mediator between God and humanity. Inheritance and Promise The household of God is also characterized by the promise of an eternal inheritance. In Galatians 4:7, Paul states, "So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God" . This inheritance includes eternal life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the future hope of glory with Christ. Responsibilities and Conduct While being part of God's household is a privilege, it also carries responsibilities. Believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting the character of their heavenly Father. Ephesians 4:1-3 urges saints to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" . This conduct fosters unity and reflects the transformative power of the Gospel. Conclusion The privilege of being of the household of God is a central theme in the New Testament, offering believers a profound sense of identity, belonging, and purpose. It underscores the transformative nature of the Gospel, which not only reconciles individuals to God but also unites them as a family, bound by love and a shared inheritance in Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 2:19Now therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Songs of Deliverance Methodists, or the Methodist Protestant Church. Household Salvation The Epistle to the Laodiceans the Proper Designation is to the ... Fundamental Oneness of the Dispensations. Fellowship with God Ephesians ii. 11, 12 What and Whence are These? God Rejoicing in the New Creation Go in Peace Resources What is the kenosis? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is our inheritance in Christ? | GotQuestions.org What are boundaries, and are they biblical? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Privileges of Saints: Abiding in Christ Privileges of Saints: Access to God by Christ Privileges of Saints: All Things Working Together for Their Good Privileges of Saints: Being of the Household of God Privileges of Saints: Calling Upon God in Trouble Privileges of Saints: Committing Themselves to God Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Deliverer Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Father Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Friend Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Glory Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Guide Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Habitation Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Helper Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Keeper Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: King Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Law-Giver Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Light Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Portion Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Redeemer Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Refuge Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Salvation Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Shield Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Strength Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Tower Privileges of Saints: Having: Christ for Their Intercessor Privileges of Saints: Having: Christ for Their Shepherd Privileges of Saints: Having: The Promises of God Privileges of Saints: Interceding for Others Privileges of Saints: Membership With the Church of the First-Born Privileges of Saints: Partaking of the Divine Nature Privileges of Saints: Profiting by Chastisement Privileges of Saints: Secure During Public Calamities Privileges of Saints: Suffering for Christ Privileges of Saints: The Possession of all Things Privileges of Saints: Their Names Written in the Book Life Privileges of Saints: Union in God and Christ Related Terms First-begotten (2 Occurrences) |
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