The Family of God | J. C. Ryle

Deep Dive into Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians by J. C. Ryle - The Family of GodJ.C. Ryle contrasts earthly families, whose joyous gatherings are ultimately marked by sorrow and inevitable separation, with the eternal family of God. Earthly family bonds are natural and commendable, but they cannot secure eternal life. St. Paul describes the family of God as "the whole family in heaven and earth," which consists of all true believers who have experienced a new birth through the Holy Ghost.True Christians are considered a family because they share one Father, who is God, and unite under the name of their Elder Brother, Jesus Christ. Furthermore, they exhibit a distinct family likeness regardless of their cultural or social backgrounds. They share a hatred for sin, a love for God, a reliance on the Bible, and common spiritual experiences.Currently, this family is divided into two distinct parts with no intermediate state like purgatory. One part resides in heaven, enjoying rest, deliverance from sin, and the presence of Christ. The other part remains on earth, continuing to struggle against the world and the flesh. Despite this separation, both groups are united in character and their relationship to God.The future prospects for God's family are entirely positive and certain, unlike the uncertain futures of earthly families. Believers are guaranteed to be brought safely home and given glorious, pain-free bodies. They will ultimately be gathered into one eternal assembly, free from disagreements, perfected in holiness, and eternally provided for.In conclusion, Ryle urges individuals to ensure they belong to this spiritual family rather than merely associating with a religious denomination. He encourages believers to live worthily of their calling, finding comfort in the promise of an ultimate, tearless gathering.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730