Family of God: [Church_of_Christ] Doulos Meditation for April 24

Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-15—For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name…

Reflection: There are plays on words in every language—and Greek is no exception. Paul calls God the Pater (father) and says that every patria (family) in heaven and on earth takes its name from him.

We do not feel the power of the phrase "takes its name" because for us a name is less important and more casual than among ancient Jews. The phrase meant the source of something and the power of something. The love and fellowship in the family of God—has its origin in God. The concepts of Father and Son—have their origin in God. In addition to origin, the name meant power—to do something in Jesus' name is not to slap a label on it and say "in Jesus' name." Rather it means to operate under his authority and by his power in whatever he has commissioned. The authority and power, the origin and commission for all things for the Christian comes from God. With Paul we confess "it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me."

Prayer Starter: Father, I don't know how to get a grasp on the family relationships that derive from you and encompass all that I am or ever will be. It is deeper than I can understand—but because I trust you, I take your word for it that the world of love, relationship, fellowship and joy has its roots in you alone. Without you I am nothing and happiness is a stranger; but with you I have all things in abundance. Amen. www.doulosinternational.org Blog: http://didialog.wordpress.com/

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