12. What impact will the biblical family have on society in the closing years of this earth’s history?

The Christian family, treasured in the heart of God Himself, will be the primary agent in winning and holding its members for the Lord. The very last verses of the Old Testament are an encouraging prophecy of what will take place before Jesus returns to gather His faithful family: “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the Lord. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers” (Malachi 4:5, 6). As mothers and fathers pray for the salvation of their children, the Spirit works to bring restoration to family ties and power to the family’s witness. JTL14 7.6

The joyful observance of the seventh-day Sabbath strengthens the family’s bond. The Sabbath, dedicated to the worship of God, provides time for the family to fellowship together with other believers in corporate worship, explore nature, and serve others. The model of a united family observing the Sabbath as a response to God’s incredible grace will be a beacon of light and hope to a disintegrating society. JTL14 7.7