From Children of Wrath to Children of God

Scripture: John 8:44

"Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do."

Personal Reflection

Few statements of Jesus are more startling than His declaration that those apart from Him belong to their spiritual father, the devil. These words remind us that every person is born into spiritual bondage. We are not born as children of God by nature but become His children only through the saving work of Jesus Christ.

This truth stands in sharp contrast to the popular belief that everyone is automatically part of God's family. Scripture teaches otherwise. God is indeed the Creator of all mankind, but only those who are united to Christ by faith are adopted into His family and receive the privilege of calling Him "Father."

This reality should deepen both our gratitude and our compassion. Gratitude, because God rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of His beloved Son. Compassion, because those who reject Christ remain enslaved to sin and deceived by the evil one.

Our warfare is therefore spiritual. While we oppose false teaching and resist evil, we remember that unbelievers are captives in need of deliverance, not merely opponents to be defeated. The gospel is God's appointed means of setting prisoners free.

Every time we pray for the lost or share the gospel, we participate in God's gracious work of calling sinners out of darkness into His marvelous light. What greater privilege could there be than pointing someone to the Savior who transforms enemies into beloved sons and daughters?

Contemplation

Does remembering what God rescued me from increase my love for Christ and my compassion for those who are still lost?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Watson wrote:

"Till God changes the heart, the sinner loves his chains."

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family through Christ. Give me a heart that longs to see others delivered from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Your dear Son. Amen.

Application

Pray for someone who is far from Christ and ask God to give you an opportunity to lovingly share the gospel with them.