Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Family of Saints" worshiping God together is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the communal and familial aspects of worship. The Bible presents the family as a foundational unit for spiritual growth and worship, where members are encouraged to come together in reverence and adoration of God.Biblical Foundation The Bible underscores the importance of family worship in both the Old and New Testaments. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7 , God commands the Israelites: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage highlights the responsibility of parents to instill the knowledge and love of God in their children, making worship a daily family practice. The Psalms also reflect the communal aspect of worship within the family. Psalm 78:4 states, "We will not hide them from their children, but will declare to the next generation the praises of the LORD and His might, and the wonders He has performed." Here, the transmission of faith and worship is seen as a generational duty, ensuring that the family remains a unit of spiritual continuity. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the family continues to play a crucial role in worship. Acts 16:31-34 recounts the account of the Philippian jailer, who, after believing in the Lord Jesus, was baptized along with his entire household. This narrative illustrates the collective response of a family to the gospel message, leading to communal worship and salvation. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often addresses households, encouraging them to live in harmony and worship together. In Colossians 3:16 , Paul writes, "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." This exhortation is directed at the Christian community, including families, to engage in worship through teaching, singing, and mutual edification. Theological Implications Theologically, the family is seen as a microcosm of the Church, the larger family of God. Ephesians 2:19 describes believers as "fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household." This imagery reinforces the idea that families are integral to the body of Christ, participating in the worship and mission of the Church. The family, as a worshiping unit, reflects the unity and diversity of the Trinity. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in perfect harmony and mutual glorification, so too are families called to worship God together, each member contributing uniquely to the collective praise. Practical Application Practically, families are encouraged to establish regular times of worship, including prayer, Bible reading, and singing. This practice not only strengthens the spiritual bonds within the family but also prepares each member to participate more fully in the corporate worship of the Church. Moreover, family worship serves as a witness to the surrounding community, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel in everyday life. As families worship together, they embody the biblical vision of a household dedicated to the glory of God, serving as a beacon of faith and love in a world in need of hope. Nave's Topical Index 1 Corinthians 16:19The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. Nave's Topical Index Library The Communion of Saints. The Communion of Saints. Departed Saints Fellowservants with those yet on Earth. Worship On Family Religion "The Least of These My Brethren" One of Paul's Prayers The Knowledge that God Is, Combined with the Knowledge that He is ... The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints God and the Godly Resources Are family devotions important? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.org Should there be hierarchy in the family? | GotQuestions.org Family: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Family of Saints: Be Duly Regulated Family of Saints: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Family of Saints: Live in Mutual Forbearance Family of Saints: Live in Unity Family of Saints: Punishment of Irreligious Family of Saints: Rejoice Together Before God Family of Saints: should be Taught God's Word Family of Saints: Warned Against Departing from God Family of Saints: Worship God Together Family: Good: Jailor of Philippi Family: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Family: Infelicity in David and Michal Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds Family: Infelicity in Moses and Zipporah Family: Infelicity In of Abraham, on Account of Hagar Family: Infelicity In of Isaac, on Account of the Disagreement Between Jacob and Esau Family: Infelicity In of Jacob, the Bigamic Jealousy Between Leah and Rachel Family: Persian, Domestic Customs Related Terms |
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