Every household has distinctive values, which define the family culture. In our family, we say: “Millers do hard things.” We’re adventurous, hardworking, and don’t quit when things get tough. As I look back on my family tree, it is evident that value goes back for generations. It’s who we are.
The household of God also has distinctive values defining our family culture. Paul lists three theological virtues in 1 Corinthians 13:13 when he writes, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
As the family of God, we are people of faith. We have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, entrusting ourselves into His faithful care. He makes us right with the Father and gives us the Holy Spirit. God’s people are a family of faith.
As the family of God, we are also people of hope. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus give us confidence as we look to the future grace of all that God has promised. We eagerly await the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who will renew all things. God’s people are a family of hope.
As the family of God, we are people of love. We love because God first loved us. In Christ, we are learning to love one another sincerely from the heart. We maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. God’s people are a family of love.
As we come to Acts 20, we find each of these three virtues—faith, hope, and love—expressed by the family of God in the events that unfold. It’s completely unrehearsed. But we can see it in action. That’s the power of family culture. Without even trying, families act like themselves. So, as we study today, let’s pray for God to reinforce these family values in our own church. May we increasingly become people of faith, hope, and love. Because in the family of God, we are loved, more than we know!
