“Taking it to the Streets Ministry”

June  2025

A Devotional on Divine Kinship

 

In the quest to understand our relationship with God, one of the most profound questions arises: Are we all God’s children, or does this title belong exclusively to Christians? The Bible offers guidance on this matter, revealing layers of theological truth that can help us discern the breadth of God's love and the depth of His invitation into divine family.

The Bible begins with the assertion that God is the Creator of all humanity. In Genesis 1:27, we read, “So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.” This passage establishes that every human being bears the imprint of God’s image. As Creator, God holds a paternal relationship with all people, much like an artist’s connection to their masterpiece. In Acts 17:28, the Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment when addressing the Athenians: “For in Him we live and move and have our being. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are His offspring.’” This declaration acknowledges the universal kinship of humanity with God as the source of life. However, this general connection does not automatically equate to the intimate relationship described in the New Testament as being a “child of God.”

While God is indeed the Creator of all, the Bible makes a distinction between creation and adoption. The title “children of God” is often used in Scripture to refer specifically to those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. In John 1:12-13, we find this clarification: “Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” This adoption as God’s children is a spiritual transformation, made possible through Jesus’ redemptive work on the cross. Romans 8:14-17 further elaborates: “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God... The Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” Here, Paul emphasizes the unique relationship believers have with God, one marked by intimacy, inheritance, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

While the title “children of God” may be reserved for those who are in Christ, the invitation to join this divine family is open to all.
Revelation 22:17 declares, “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” God’s love and desire for relationship extend to every person, regardless of nationality, background, or past. Jesus’ ministry reflects this inclusive call. In Matthew 11:28, He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” While not everyone may be a child of God in the spiritual sense from the outset, the path to adoption is clearly marked through faith in Jesus Christ.

For those who have accepted this divine invitation, a new identity begins. As children of God, believers are called to reflect His love,
His Holiness, and His mission in the world. In 1 John 3:1-2, we are reminded of this transformative relationship: “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.” This identity shapes not only how Christians interact with God but also how they view others. While some may not yet share this spiritual kinship, they are still valued creations of God, worthy of love, respect, and the message of salvation.

So, are we all God’s children? In the broad sense of creation, yes, we all belong to God as His handiwork, made in His image. But
The deeper, familial relationship of being a “child of God” is reserved for those who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
This truth is not exclusive in its intention but rather inclusive in its invitation. God desires for all to come to Him, to experience His love, and to be adopted into His eternal family. As believers, let us live as faithful children of God while extending His invitation to those around us, embodying the heart of a Father who longs for all to know Him.

·Genesis 1:27
·Acts 17:28
·John 1:12-13
·Romans 8:14-17
·Revelation 22:17
·Matthew 11:28
·1 John 3:1-2