The greatest legacy a family can have is not what they own — but what they are devoted to.
“I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)”
— 1 Corinthians 16:15
Homes come in all shapes and sizes. Some are built of brick and mortar, others of boards or blocks. Some are large and ornate, others small and simple. But regardless of how a house is built, the greatest thing that could ever be said about the family living inside it is this — “they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints.”
How we need homes today that are hooked on God. Scripture gives us a powerful snapshot of such a home in the house of Stephanas. Here are three traits that ought to be present in every Christian household.
THE HOUSE OF STEPHANAS HAD A FIRM AUTHORITY
v.15 — “ye know the house of Stephanas”
Paul refers to this family as Stephanas’ house. That tells us something important. Stephanas was the spiritual authority in his home. He was not just present — he was leading. He understood his God-given responsibility to guide his family spiritually.
Homes do not drift toward godliness by accident. A house becomes hooked on God when there is loving, biblical leadership that takes responsibility for the spiritual direction of the family.
THE HOUSE OF STEPHANAS HAD A FAMILY ALTAR
v.15 — “that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves”
Notice the wording — it does not say Stephanas was addicted to the ministry, but that his house was. What began as a personal devotion became a family passion. Stephanas lit a fire for God in his own heart, and that fire spread to those under his roof.
A family altar does not have to be complicated — but it must be intentional. Homes are shaped by what they consistently gather around. Stephanas’ house gathered around the things of God.
THE HOUSE OF STEPHANAS HAD A FREQUENTED ASSEMBLY
v.15 — “to the ministry of the saints”
Stephanas’ house was no stranger to God’s house. They were involved. They were present. Their lives revolved around the ministry of the saints. Church was not an accessory — it was the axis.
When a family’s schedule rotates around the house of God, their hearts will soon follow. Stephanas’ house wasn’t dragged into ministry — they were devoted to it.
