How can we apply "I will say, 'They are My people'" in our community? Setting the Promise in Context “And I will say, ‘They are My people’; and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’ ” (Zechariah 13:9) • Spoken after a refining fire, this declaration seals a covenant relationship. • God’s ownership of a people is not symbolic; it is literal, binding, and eternal. • The response “The LORD is our God” shows mutual commitment—He claims us, we confess Him. What “My People” Means • Identity: We are no longer defined by culture, politics, or preferences first, but by belonging to Him (1 Peter 2:9–10). • Security: His people stand under His protection and discipline (Psalm 100:3). • Mission: A people claimed by God exist to display His glory (Isaiah 43:21). Living the Identity Together 1. Embrace Family Language – Speak and act like brothers and sisters (Romans 12:10). – Address conflicts quickly, aiming for restoration. 2. Practice Visible Loyalty to Christ – Public worship declares, “The LORD is our God.” – Personal obedience backs up corporate confession (John 14:15). 3. Cultivate Shared Life – Open homes, share meals, bear burdens (Acts 2:44–47). – No one in God’s people should walk alone. Practical Steps for Our Congregation • Membership Covenant: Clearly state mutual commitments that mirror Zechariah 13:9. • Testimony Nights: Give space for members to confess, “The LORD is our God,” encouraging faith. • Care Teams: Assign small groups to track needs—financial, emotional, spiritual. • Intergenerational Ministry: Pair older saints with younger believers to pass on faith stories (Psalm 78:4). • Community Witness Projects: Serve locally so neighbors see what God’s people look like (Matthew 5:16). Scriptures to Anchor Our Practice • Hosea 2:23—“I will say to those called ‘Not My People,’ ‘You are My people.’ ” • Romans 9:25–26—God’s promise extends even to Gentiles. • John 13:35—“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Hebrews 10:24—“Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” Closing Encouragement When God says, “They are My people,” He is announcing a reality that must shape everything we do. Let’s live so convincingly in that identity that our community cannot help but notice—and want to join the chorus: “The LORD is our God.” |
    |