Disowning family members is a painful and difficult decision. But what does the Bible say about it? The scriptures emphasize the importance of family and relationships, offering guidance on how to handle conflict and reconciliation. Let’s explore the biblical perspective on disowning family and what it teaches us about forgiveness and restoration.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About wearing jewelry and makeup
What Does The Bible Say About disowning family members
Matthew 10:37
“Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our love and devotion to Jesus over our familial relationships. It reminds us that our commitment to Christ should surpass any other earthly attachments.
While this verse may seem harsh, it does not imply that we should disown or abandon our family members. Rather, it serves as a reminder that our ultimate allegiance and loyalty should be directed towards God.
Matthew 12:46-50
“While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.’ He replied to him, ‘Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’
In this passage, Jesus highlights the significance of spiritual kinship and unity over physical relationships. He broadens the definition of family by including those who follow and obey God’s will.
This verse does not advocate for the rejection or disownment of our biological family but rather emphasizes that our spiritual family, composed of fellow believers, holds a special bond with us as we collectively serve and follow God.
Luke 14:26
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.”
Jesus’ statement in this verse may seem extreme, but it emphasizes the level of commitment required to follow Him. It does not promote literal hatred towards family members but rather highlights the need to prioritize our allegiance to Christ above all else.
Following Christ may involve making difficult choices that can even strain or sever certain family relationships. However, the overarching message is that our love and devotion for Jesus should supersede any other earthly attachments.
Mark 10:29-30
“Truly I tell you,’ Jesus replied, ‘no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life.”
This passage reassures those who have sacrificed familial ties or possessions for the sake of the gospel that they will be abundantly blessed, both in this life and the hereafter.
While it may involve leaving behind certain family members, Jesus promises that those who forsake these relationships for His sake will be rewarded with a new family and community in Christ, along with eternal life.
Luke 18:29-30
“Truly I tell you,’ Jesus said to them, ‘no one who has left home or wife or brothers or sisters or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.”
In a similar vein, this verse reinforces the idea that those who have given up familial relationships for the sake of God’s kingdom will experience abundant blessings in this present life and eternal life in the future.
While choosing to follow Christ may involve temporary sacrifices, Jesus assures His followers that the rewards for their faithfulness will far surpass anything they could have given up.
1 Timothy 5:8
“Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities towards our immediate family members. It highlights that neglecting to provide support for our relatives, particularly those in our own household, is contrary to the principles of the Christian faith.
While it is crucial to prioritize our commitment to God, this verse reminds us that we should never use our devotion to God as an excuse to neglect our familial duties and obligations.
Proverbs 15:20
“A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.”
This proverb highlights the impact of our actions and attitudes towards our parents. It emphasizes that wise and discerning children bring joy and happiness to their fathers, whereas those who disrespect or disregard their mothers are considered foolish.
While this verse does not specifically address the act of disowning family members, it underscores the importance of honoring and valuing our parents and family relationships.
Ephesians 6:1-3
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’
This passage emphasizes the obligation of children to obey and honor their parents as part of their Christian walk. It affirms that this is not only a commandment but also a promise, assuring them of God’s blessings and prosperity in their lives.
While every family dynamic is different, this verse encourages children to maintain a respectful and obedient attitude towards their parents, seeking to foster healthy relationships within the family structure.
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
In a similar vein to Ephesians 6:1-3, this verse reaffirms the importance of children submitting themselves to the authority of their parents. It highlights that obeying and honoring one’s parents is an act of pleasing God.
While the dynamics within families can be complex, this verse promotes the idea that obedience to parents is not only a sign of respect but also a reflection of one’s devotion to the Lord.
Proverbs 30:17
“The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures.”
Proverbs presents a vivid illustration to depict the severity of disrespecting or dishonoring one’s parents. This verse warns that those who mock their fathers or scorn their mothers will face severe consequences.
While its language may be interpreted metaphorically, the verse serves as a cautionary reminder to treat our parents with reverence and dignity, understanding the weight of our words and actions towards them.
1 Timothy 5:4
“But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.”
This verse addresses the responsibility of children and grandchildren towards widows within their own family. It emphasizes the importance of demonstrating genuine faith by caring for their relatives, particularly those in need.
While the verse pertains to widows specifically, it underscores the broader principle of showing love and compassion towards our family members, fulfilling our duties to care for and support those within our own households.
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.”
This commandment, known as one of the Ten Commandments, instructs believers to honor their parents. It reveals that honoring one’s father and mother not only cultivates healthy family relationships but also brings about God’s blessing and favor.
By giving due respect and reverence to our parents, we acknowledge the role they play in our lives and embrace the wisdom and guidance they can offer.
Proverbs 23:22
“Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
This proverb encourages children to listen to their fathers and not disdain or disregard their mothers, particularly in their elderly years. It promotes the importance of maintaining a respectful and caring attitude towards one’s parents throughout their lives.
By actively listening and valuing the wisdom and guidance of our parents, especially as they age, we demonstrate gratitude for the life they have given us and the love they have shown.
Proverbs 20:20
“If someone curses their father or mother, their lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.”
Proverbs sternly warns of the consequences of cursing or disrespecting one’s parents. This verse metaphorically represents the extinguishing of one’s light or life in utter darkness for those who dishonor their fathers or mothers.
This verse serves as a reminder of the severity of disrespecting or cursing our parents, emphasizing the importance of treating them with honor and reverence.
Proverbs 6:20
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”
This proverb calls for children to diligently follow their father’s instructions and not neglect their mothers’ teachings. It acknowledges the vital role both parents play in imparting wisdom and guidance to their children.
By heeding and not forsaking the guidance provided by our parents, we acknowledge their love and care for us, and we benefit from the valuable lessons they impart.
Leviticus 19:3
“Each of you must respect your mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the LORD your God.”
In this verse, God commands His people to respect their mother and father, paralleling their obedience to this commandment with the observance of His Sabbaths.
By respecting our parents, we honor God’s authority and recognize the divine order He has established within the family structure.
Proverbs 13:1
“A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.”
This verse draws a contrast between a wise son who listens and responds to his father’s guidance and a mocker who disregards or rejects rebukes or correction.
By embracing the wisdom and correction offered by our fathers or parental figures, we display humility and a willingness to learn, cultivating growth and maturity in our own lives.
Proverbs 1:8-9
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
This passage encourages children to listen attentively to their father’s instruction and not neglect the teachings of their mother. It presents these teachings as a symbol of honor and a source of beauty and adornment.
By embracing the wisdom and teachings imparted by our parents, we equip ourselves with valuable knowledge that can guide us throughout life, leading to personal growth and success.
Proverbs 22:15
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.”
Proverbs acknowledges the innate tendency of children to embrace folly or foolishness. The verse implies that discipline, embodied metaphorically by the rod, serves as a necessary means to correct and redirect children towards wisdom and righteousness.
While disciplining children should be done with love and discernment, this verse highlights the role of parents in guiding their children away from foolishness and towards wisdom.
Proverbs 30:11
“There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.”
Proverbs highlights the existence of those who curse their fathers and fail to show reverence or gratitude towards their mothers. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing and honoring both parents.
While it may be tempting to speak ill of our parents, this verse encourages us to bless and speak well of them, recognizing the significance of their role in our lives.
Proverbs 30:17
“The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures.”
This proverb uses vivid imagery to illustrate the severe consequences of mocking or disobeying one’s father and mother. It paints a picture of impending doom for those who display disrespect and rebellion towards their parents.
This verse serves as a warning against undermining the authority or despising the guidance provided by our parents, emphasizing the value of honoring and obeying them.
Proverbs 23:25
“May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!”
This verse expresses a prayer or blessing for children to bring joy and rejoicing to their parents, particularly the mother who gave them birth. It highlights the delight parents experience when their children live in a manner worthy of celebration and pride.
By living in a way that honors our parents and brings them joy, we acknowledge the love and sacrifices they have made for us, fostering a healthy and loving familial relationship.
Ephesians 6:2-3
“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
Ephesians echoes the commandment found in Exodus 20:12, emphasizing the importance of honoring one’s father and mother. It emphasizes that this is the first commandment with a promise, assuring believers that honoring their parents leads to prosperity and longevity.
By honoring and respecting our parents, we align ourselves with God’s unfolding plan for our lives, inviting His blessings and favor upon us.