Closer Than Kin

Jesus said His true family is those who hear and obey God’s Word. Obedience binds us to Him in a way deeper than blood ties.

Author

Travis Agnew

Lead Pastor

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Obedience

Closer Than Kin

Jesus said His true family is those who hear and obey God’s Word. Obedience binds us to Him in a way deeper than blood ties.

Date

August 9, 2026

Speaker

Travis Agnew

Lead Pastor

Scripture

Luke 8:19-21

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What Jesus Didn’t Mean

Jesus never encouraged us to dishonor our parents or devalue our families (Ex. 20:12; Prov. 23:22-25).
Jesus both taught (Mark 7:9-13; Luke 18:20) and modeled (Luke 2:51; John 2:3-5; 19:25-27) faithful care for one’s family.
Neglecting your family is a denial of the faith (1 Tim. 5:8).

What Jesus Did Mean

As the crowds drew near to Jesus, His own family drifted further from understanding Him (Luke 8:19-20; cf. Mark 3:20-21; John 7:3-5).
Our ultimate allegiance belongs to God, even above our closest relationships.
Following Jesus creates a family that is closer than kin.

What Jesus Demands

Belong: Stop treating the church like an event to attend and start treating it like a family to which you belong.
Obey: Reject a life of consuming Christian content and embrace a life of obeying God’s Word.
Contribute: If this is your family, it’s time to start helping around the house.