Family (Spiritual and Physical): Cornerstone of the Church
God designed only two institutions—the Church and the family. They are so interrelated that He spoke of them in the same text (Ephesians 5:22-33). Jesus’ relationship to the Church is described in the family terms of husband and wife. Elsewhere, we learn that all who are in the Church are in the family of God and are named Christians after God’s Son Jesus (Ephesians 3:15).
Therefore, it makes sense that the Church should minister to the family. The spiritual family of God should be the greatest supporter any physical, nuclear family ever has. And, the physical family is the greatest resource the spiritual family has. These two institutions are inseparable. They cannot do as well without each other as they can do with each other.
It is undeniable that if we strengthen physical families we strengthen the spiritual family. It is obvious that if we want the spiritual family to grow we should concentrate on growth measures for the physical family.
Furthermore, the importance of the younger generations to the continuing health of the Church is equally undeniable. We cannot overlook them. Neither can we over-emphasize them. We must, though, make sure that we provide for them. How better can we do that than to reach out to them by providing the resources their families need and can use to do that which the Lord expects them to do—train their children!
Some years ago, some people led by the Derringer family saw the need for continuing to train and encourage families as a part of our church ministry. To that end, Cornerstone Family Seminar was born. Its purpose is to provide that training and encouragement using skilled men and women with insight and experience in this very ministry.
The next Cornerstone event begins Saturday night with the men and the speaker gathered to talk about their roles. I think we can all agree that the roles of men and women in our culture are under constant attack. I appreciate this event calling the men of our congregation into account as leaders.
I am excited to hear insight and ideas directed toward training our young people to have their own faith before God. The desire for them to have their own faith is not about disconnecting their faith totally from their parents and other spiritual leaders. It would not be right simply to throw them into the cultural fires without any training or understanding. Having one’s own faith is about owning what they have been given.
A concerned preacher once visited a man whose children seemed to be out of control. He inquired what he could do to help. The father explained the dynamic of their home as they walked in his garden. He said that his parenting strategy was not to give his children many rules and allow them to find their own way.
The preacher noticed the beautiful gardens in this man’s yard. He said, “So, how did you get such a beautiful garden?” The man responded that he had spent much time and energy with purpose to make them what they are. The preacher responded, “So, you don’t think your gardens would be beautiful without the discipline you provide but you think your children will be?” The point was made. I hope you will be a part of this weekend’s event.
— Mike Johnson
