Children Of God Vs. Children Of The Devil Series

The Bible teaches that God created all humanity, but not everyone is considered a child of God. In fact, Scripture distinguishes between those who are children of God and those who are children of the devil. But what determines this distinction? Let's explore this from a biblical perspective.

Children of God

According to the Bible, those who are children of God are those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. In John 1:12, it is written, "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." This indicates that becoming a child of God is not solely based on physical birth or human effort, but rather on receiving Jesus Christ by faith.

Jesus Himself taught that those who do the will of God are His family. In Mark 3:35, He said, "For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and My mother." This emphasizes the importance of spiritual obedience and relationship with God.

Children of the Devil

On the other hand, the Bible also speaks of those who are children of the devil. In John 8:44, Jesus told the Pharisees, "You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do." This passage highlights that those who follow the devil's ways and reject God's truth can be considered children of the devil.

Furthermore, 1 John 3:10 states, "In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother." This verse underscores that the actions and behavior of individuals can reveal whether they are children of God or children of the devil.

Examples from Scripture

Let's look at some biblical examples that illustrate the distinction between children of God and children of the devil:

- Adam and Eve vs. Cain: Adam and Eve, who repented and trusted in God's promise of a Savior, demonstrate faith that reflects the heart of God's children. In contrast, Cain, who disobeyed God and harbored hatred in his heart, exemplifies the characteristics of a child of the devil (Genesis 4:1-16).

- The Prodigal Son vs. The Pharisees: The Prodigal Son, who humbly returned to his Father, represents those who recognize their sinfulness and accept God's mercy (Luke 15:11-32). Conversely, the Pharisees, who rejected Jesus and focused on external righteousness, demonstrate the traits of those who are spiritually distant from God.

The distinction between being a child of God and a child of the devil is rooted in one's relationship with God through Jesus Christ and evidenced by their actions and obedience to God's will. While God created all humanity, it is through faith in Jesus Christ that we become children of God. As believers, we are called to live out our faith in obedience to God's Word, demonstrating our identity as children of God.

Ultimately, this distinction is not about physical birth or external appearances but about the heart's condition and one's spiritual allegiance. As the Bible teaches, "You shall know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:16). Let us strive to bear the fruit of righteousness, love, and obedience, reflecting our identity as children of God.