What responsibilities come with being "sons and daughters" of the Lord Almighty? The Family Promise in 2 Corinthians 6:18 “And: ‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:18) The Lord declares an unbreakable covenant bond. With that privilege comes clear, non-negotiable responsibilities. Immediate Context: A Call to Separation Read 2 Corinthians 6:14-17. Paul urges believers to: • “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers” (v. 14). • “Come out from among them and be separate” (v. 17). Our sonship is linked to living distinct lives that honor our Father. Key Responsibilities of God’s Sons and Daughters • Live Holy Lives — 1 Peter 1:14-16: “Be holy, because I am holy.” — Ephesians 5:1-3: Imitate God, walk in love, avoid impurity. • Reject Compromise — 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 commands separation from idolatry and darkness. — 1 John 2:15-17 warns against loving the world’s system. • Reflect the Father’s Character — Matthew 5:16: let your light shine so people glorify the Father. — Philippians 2:15: shine as lights in a crooked generation. • Be Led by the Spirit — Romans 8:14: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” — Galatians 5:22-25 lists the Spirit’s fruit—evidence of family likeness. • Submit to the Father’s Discipline — Hebrews 12:5-10: loving correction proves genuine sonship. — Proverbs 3:11-12: the Lord disciplines those He loves. • Guard the Family Temple — 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: your body is God’s temple; glorify Him with it. — Romans 12:1: present your bodies as living sacrifices. • Love the Family — John 13:34-35: love one another so all know you belong to Jesus. — Galatians 5:13: through love serve one another. • Carry the Family Mission — Matthew 28:19-20: make disciples of all nations. — 2 Corinthians 5:20: “We are ambassadors for Christ.” • Endure Hardship as Loyal Children — Romans 8:17: heirs with Christ “if indeed we suffer with Him.” — James 1:12: blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. • Purify Hope and Expectation — 1 John 3:1-3: knowing we are God’s children moves us to purify ourselves. — Titus 2:11-14: grace trains us to live godly lives while awaiting Christ’s return. Living It Out Daily • Evaluate relationships and influences—do they pull you toward or away from the Father? • Practice daily repentance and obedience; holiness is both position and ongoing pursuit. • Lean on the Spirit for guidance; heirs walk in step with their Guide. • Welcome correction; discipline shapes maturity. • Serve the church; family members contribute to household health. • Witness boldly; an honored family name begs to be shared. Sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty bear His likeness, uphold His standards, and advance His purposes until the day they share fully in their promised inheritance. |
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