The Family Altar (2) By Pastor Faith Oyedepo

Topic: The Family Altar (2)

You are welcome to this week’s teaching. Last week, I introduced you to the foundation of the family and how you can live right as a member of God’s family.

This week, I shall be examining the Structure of the Family. Hebrews 3:4 says: For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.

The word “house” in the above passage is not referring to a physical structure, but to a family structure; that is, the individuals who make up the home. It is the responsibility of every Christian to build his/her house. You build by organizing and administering the individuals under your roof.

1 Timothy 3:12 says: Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

Family structure requires effective administration. Where this is lacking, individuals who eventually destroy the society are produced. The essence of the family, therefore, is to create an environment for effective administration and preparation of individuals for life, so as to grow and properly pursue the plan of God for their lives.

God speaking about Abraham said: For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him (Genesis 18:19).

Abraham had a grasp of God’s purpose for the family and by that understanding he was able to order his household aright. The result is that God was pleased with him; and He ensured that Abraham and his household were successful in all their endeavours. Till today, Christians all over the world, still identify with Abraham.

The first thing we must understand about God’s purpose for the family is: The family is where we learn to glorify God and live for him. The Bible tells us what God’s purpose is when it says: And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth (Malachi 2:15).

The purpose of God for you as well as our family is to glorify God. This is not something that just happens; there must be deliberate effort. It does not happen because you come to church, send your kids to Sunday school and youth group. It happens because in your home, you show your love for God. You talk about Him. You tell your children how He has been faithful to you and helped you through life. You see Him everywhere and talk about the beauty and ingenuity of the world He has created. You model before them the life He has called you to live and have passion for the things of God. Also, each family must be founded and built on the principle and master plan of God, the Originator.

For you to enjoy the family structure of the Almighty God and for successful parenthood, you need the grace of God. However, the grace of God is the privilege of those that are born again. Are you born again? Are you a child of God? Are you ready to confess your sins and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and personal Saviour? If you are ready, please say this prayer with me: “Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me my sins and cleanse me with Your Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the living God. I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Make me a child of God today. Thank You for accepting me into Your Kingdom.”

If you prayed this simple prayer, congratulations, you are now born again! You are now a child of God. He loves you and will never leave you. Read your Bible daily, obey God’s Word and seek Christian fellowship (John 14:21).

With this, you are guaranteed all-round rest and peace in Jesus’ Name! Call or write, and share your testimonies with me through contact@faithoyedepo.org; or 07026385437 and 08141320204.

For more insight, these books authored by me are available at the Dominion Bookstores in all Living Faith Churches and other leading Christian bookstores: Marriage Covenant, Making Marriage Work, Building a Successful Home and Success in Marriage (Co-Authored).