Authentic Family – by Pastor Jonathan Lawson

One of the ways we have expressed our Core Values at Christ Harbor is the term “Authentic Family.” What does this mean exactly? Well, it means that the church, as part of the new creation that is breaking in through the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, is a new humanity, a new family. And this family is based not on blood but on the Spirit. Ethnicity, culture, heritage – none of these things define a person over and above the primary identifier: Are you in Christ? If so, then you are in the family. Moreover, this is the most “real” family you can be a part of because Christ is the most real person ever to live, and only when we are in Christ are we our most real selves. This means it is and must be authentic, not forced, not masked behind politeness, but true, honest, self-giving, and kind. This drives our priority for Multi-Generational Discipleship.

We also believe that the church should support, encourage, and uphold families as a way to human flourishing. Sometimes institutions and organizations that go under the banner of a “church” promote their own agenda and priorities at the expense of families. Ironically, today what is called “church” often only contributes to further dividing families who already struggle to find time to spend together. That’s why we are committed to equipping and empowering families to train up children through worship and discipleship resources to make the home the first church everyone belongs to, while still offering opportunities for everyone to form a meaningful Christian community with their peer group. Offering Drive-By, Drop-Off moral and religious entertainment is an easy path to “church growth,” but the last few decades prove it does not produce deep lasting faith.

This week we will be talking about the Miracle of Family, as we continue For the Body our Lenten series. We’ll talk about the ways family is a gift to more than just those who are a part of it. Family is a way God works, and has worked, in the world to bring about the flourishing of His Divine Kingdom.