Feeling Lonely? Don’t Forget the Family of God “in heaven and on earth” Eph. 3:15

One Big Happy Family: What Ephesians 3:15 Tells Us About God’s Household

Have you ever considered the vast size and scope of God’s family? It’s easy to get caught up in our own small circle, isn’t it? Our immediate family, our church community, and perhaps a few close friends. But the Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, paints a much grander picture, reminding us of something truly awe-inspiring.

In Ephesians 3:15, Paul writes about “the whole family in heaven and earth” that includes Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit. It also includes all angels and all believers in Christ Jesus, regardless of denominational status or group. You are related to angels! Wow! Eph. 3:15 isn’t just a poetic phrase; it’s a profound theological statement that invites us to expand our understanding of God’s household.

Who’s in This Family?

When Paul talks about the “family in heaven and earth,” he’s pointing to something incredibly expansive:

• In Heaven: This primarily includes the angels (referred to in some scriptures as “sons of God”), those magnificent heavenly beings who serve God and constantly praise Him. They are part of His divine household, existing in perfect communion with Him. Some interpretations also include the saints who have passed on and are now in God’s presence, awaiting the resurrection. They are no less a part of God’s family than we are, and in fact, to some degree, they can look on, watching us over the bannisters of heaven like an audience watching a race.
• On Earth: This refers to all believers in Jesus Christ. This isn’t limited to a specific denomination, a particular race, or a certain social status. Whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, rich or poor, if you have put your faith in Christ, you are adopted into God’s family. We are brothers and sisters, united by the blood of Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Our Shared Fatherhood

The beauty of this verse lies in its emphasis on God as the ultimate Father. The Greek word Paul uses here for “family” (Patria) is related to the word “father” (pater). It’s as if Paul is saying that every true family, every instance of fatherhood, and every sense of belonging ultimately derives its meaning and existence from God Himself. He is the source, the origin, the perfect example of Fatherhood. Take a moment and affirm this in your heart, saying, “I am a part of the Patria of God!”

This means that whether we’re talking about angelic hosts bowing before His throne or believers gathered in a humble church building, we are all part of one grand, glorious family under the loving care of our Heavenly Father. We are all united by a common bond: our shared relationship with God through Christ.

Why Does This Matter to Us Today?

Understanding this truth can transform our perspective:

1. It fosters unity: If we truly grasp that we belong to one family, it breaks down barriers and encourages us to love and serve one another, regardless of our differences.
2. It offers comfort: Knowing that we are part of such a vast and eternal family can bring immense comfort, especially in times of loneliness or struggle. We are never truly alone.
3. It inspires worship: The sheer scale of God’s family, encompassing all creation, should lead us to greater awe and worship of the One who brings it all together.

So, the next time you feel small or isolated, remember Paul’s profound words. You are part of something magnificent, something eternal, something truly grand – the whole family in heaven and earth, united under the loving fatherhood of God.

Pray this prayer with me: 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible truth that we are part of Your vast and beautiful family—a family that spans both heaven and earth. Thank You for adopting us through Christ and for the unity we share with believers everywhere and with the angelic host.

Help us to live as true members of Your household, loving one another, extending grace, and reflecting Your heart to a world that desperately needs to know Your love. May our lives bring glory to Your name, as we look forward to the day when Your family will be perfectly united in Your presence forever.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.