The Gift of Divine Kinship

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | January 25, 2024 | John 1:6-13

KEY VERSE:

children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. John 1:13 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

The unfolding narrative of the source of all things not only introduces us to John the Baptist, a messenger sent from God to bear witness to the light but also directs our attention to another piece of welcoming news: the arrival of this Light and the offer of Divine Kinship with the Word incarnate."

The challenge however is that not all welcomed His arrival because the verse says as the true light enters the world, a sad reality unfolds: "He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him." (John 1:11). Yet, in the midst of rejection, a sincere invitation resounds through the ages. For those who receive and believe in the name of the Word, a divine right is granted — the right to become children of God - the right to divine kinship. It is a gift that goes beyond human understanding, offering a family relational bond with the Creator of the universe.

This gift of divine kinship is not dependent upon our ancestry or achievements. It is a gracious offer extended to all who choose to receive it. It speaks of a relational connection that goes beyond earthly ties, inviting us into an intimate relationship where the Creator becomes Father, and we become His cherished children. The right to become children of God is a transformative promise, offering a new identity rooted in the eternal family of the Most High. God is offering humanity the gift of becoming His family members.

Despite the world's rejection, the door to divine kinship remains wide open. Our status as children of God is not determined by our past or present circumstances; it is a gift waiting to be claimed through faith. A gift beyond measure, bestowed upon us through the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Consider this: that the creator invites you into His family. May we respond to the call to believe and receive, stepping into the radiant light that defines our identity as partakers in the divine family. Accept His offer today and have a life directed by the Word. Thank him for the gift of divine kinship.

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I am grateful for the gift of kinship with you. May I live by the rules of the kingdom which you have ushered me into. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: BORN In John 1:13 (NIV), the term "born" is translated from the Greek word "ἐγεννήθησαν" (egennēthēsan). This word is a verb derived from the root "gennaó," which generally refers to the process of giving birth or being born.

The phrase in the verse emphasizes a significant aspect of the believer's relationship with God. It states that those who received Christ believed in His name, and became "children of God" were not born of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

The use of "born" in this context carries profound theological implications. It conveys the spiritual rebirth or regeneration when an individual accepts Christ and becomes a believer. This spiritual birth is not a result of human effort, lineage, or human will; rather, it is a divine act initiated by God.

In other parts of the New Testament, such as John 3:3-6, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus about the necessity of being "born again" to see the kingdom of God. This concept of being born again aligns with the idea presented in John 1:13, emphasising a spiritual birth that is the work of God's Spirit.

Reflections:

How does being "born of God" challenge or reshape your understanding of your identity and purpose as a believer?