Right to Become Children

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | January 24, 2024 | John 1:10-13

KEY VERSE:

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

In our previous reflection, we observed how the spotlight shifted from the Word by which the world was created, to a human witness — John the Baptist. His role was not to overshadow the light but to bear witness to it, preparing the way for a truth that would redefine human identity. Emerging from this narrative is the transformative power hidden in the right to become children of God which will be our focus for today’s devotion.

The right to become children is not a mere legal entitlement; it is a spiritual transformation. It goes beyond earthly relationships and human achievements. This right is not determined by bloodlines, social status, or personal merit. It is a gift extended to those who, in faith, receive and believe in the name of the Word. As children of God, we are not bound by the limitations of earthly characteristics; we are defined by a heavenly relationship. This right carries with it the privilege of divine inheritance — we have a share in the eternal promises of the Word made flesh. It grants us access to the fullness of God’s grace flowing from the depths of God’s love.

We find ourselves at this point of consideration— the right to become children. It is an invitation and a gift, but we must proclaim and believe; we must receive, and embrace the divine light, to enter a holy connection with the Word, and become heirs of grace and children of God.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Become a child of God today by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. Let the authenticity of your acceptance and belief in His name manifest through a life lived for Him. Prove your love for Him by how you live. Honour Him with all you are and all you do.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord Jesus, I Believe you are the son of God and I believe you are my Saviour and Lord. Help me to live to please you, as proof of my love for you. For your dear name's sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: CHILDREN OF GOD The Greek term used for "children" is "τέκνα" (tekna), and it implies not just offspring but individuals with a close, intimate relationship with God. This term emphasizes a spiritual connection, portraying believers as those who are born of God, indicating a new birth in the spiritual realm.

The concept of being "Children of God" is recurrent in the New Testament and is not merely a biological relationship but a relational and covenantal one. In Romans 8:16-17, it is expressed that the Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God's children, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.

In the broader biblical context, this phrase draws on the imagery of familial ties, reflecting the intimate bond believers share with God through faith in Christ. It conveys the idea of adoption into God's family, signifying acceptance, love, and the inheritance of the blessings of God. This adoption theme is elaborated in Galatians 4:4-7, where believers, through Christ, receive the Spirit of adoption as sons, crying out, "Abba, Father!"

The use of "Children of God" is a reminder of the transformative nature of faith in Jesus Christ, signifying a spiritual rebirth and a new identity as heirs of God's promises. Believers are called to embrace their status as beloved members of God's family, entailing a responsibility to live in accordance with the values and principles of their heavenly Father.

Reflections:

In what ways does understanding yourself as a "Child of God" impact your daily life and interactions with others?