Are you a child of God?

They answered him, "Abraham is our father." - John 8:39a

Many of the Jews believed that they were members of the covenant community because they were descendants of Abraham. The privilege was a birthright, and no one could strip it away. However, there is a difference between being a descendant of Abraham and a child of Abraham. The privilege the Jews assumed they had were not birthrights but were given to Abraham's children. 

Many church attendees assume they are believers because they read the bible, pray, worship at church, and place their tithes in the offering plate. Acting like a Christian does not make one a Christian. Believing in Jesus Christ as one's personal Lord and Savior is the only way to be saved.

"If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." - Romans 10:9 (NIV)

Dear Church, let us ensure that our motives are pure in Christ. Why do you do what you do? Is it to win God's favor, or is it because of Christ's love for you? Remember, 

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. - John 1:12

As children of God loved by Him, let us demonstrate His love to one another.

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. - 1 John 4:7 (NLT)