Essentials: Family (Chris Zauner)

Welcome to Week 2 of our Essentials sermon series at Grace City Eugene. In this message titled “Family,” Pastor Chris Zauner explores what it truly means to live as the family of God, united not by preference or convenience, but by the sacrificial love of Jesus.Looking at John 13, we step into a pivotal moment where Jesus, just hours before the cross, washes His disciples’ feet and gives them a new command:“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34-35This isn't just a nice idea — it's an essential foundation for following Jesus and building healthy, Christ-centered community. Pastor Chris challenges us to reframe our understanding of love and family through the lens of Christ, calling us to live in such a way that the world sees Jesus through our relationships.In this sermon, we unpack four essential characteristics of Jesus-centered love:Sacrificial Love – Love that gives, even when it costs.Unconditional (Covenantal) Love – Love that stays, even when people fall short.Servant-Hearted Love – Love that humbles itself and serves others.Truthful & Transforming Love – Love that speaks truth in grace to lead others into freedom.This message is a call to move beyond observation into participation, to build relationships that are anchored in the gospel and lived out in community.