Find Inspiration From Biblical FamiliesНамуна

What did Jesus teach about family?

Jesus taught that children were to be valued. He demonstrated care for the widow as well. Jesus also had compassion for senior adults (John 19:25-27).

While Jesus appeared to value families and the care of children and seniors, he also taught that there were limitations to family ties for people who agreed to be his disciple. For the disciple, Jesus must be his or her priority, even over one’s life.

In fact, Jesus promised a greater return of blessing in the age to come for those willing to leave home, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or field to follow him. Jesus broadened the definition of family as anyone who does the will of God, therefore elevating followers of Jesus into the realm of the most intimate relationships of family (Mark 3:31-35).

The story of the holy family provides limited insight into the family of Jesus. Yet there is ample evidence of a healthy family experience and environment into which Jesus was born, grew, and matured.

Ample teaching is also available from Jesus’ family about the nature of human families related to God as our heavenly father in matters of faith, obedience, and loyalty.

Questions for Reflection:

- In what ways does your family nurture, value, and celebrate children?

- How is faith in Jesus Christ developed and talked about in your family?