Closer Than Kin

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.