“Why we value our church family”

Sunday, June 11, 2017

You can’t help but notice in Acts 2, when over 3000 people obeyed the gospel, that there was an instant bond. We are told that, immediately, they made it their aim to be steadfast in the apostles’ teaching, in fellowship, breaking of bread and praying (vr. 42). Then we are told that they sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need (vr. 45). Not only did they do these things, it also states, “they continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking of bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart,” (vr. 46).

One can’t help but appreciate the closeness the brethren had with each other. But what caused this? The answers lies within their conversion. When people are converted to Jesus Christ they learn what love and selflessness truly is. They heard about the life of Jesus (vrs. 22-36). They were made aware of His sacrifice for those who didn’t care for Him, and that He willingly went to the cross to provide man with the opportunity to go to heaven.

It’s amazing what a common faith does. This is something that the world will not fully grasp. John the apostle, spoke about the fellowship that saints have due to their common fellowship with the Lord (I Jn. 1:3-7). Because of such, brothers and sisters in Christ are able to provide many things for one another.

Here is a list of the things members can do for each other due to this common faith:

1. Assist brethren through their prayers (Jas. 5:16).

2. Support each other with burdens (Gal. 6:1).
    
3. Share the laughter and the tears (Rom. 12:15).

4. Speaking words of encouragement, knowing we all need to be built up (Rom. 14:19).

5. Genuine love for one another (I Pet. 1:22).

6. Ready and willing to do good for your spiritual family (Gal. 6:10).

7. Looking out for the spiritual wellbeing of all the saints (Jas. 5:19-20).
    
8. Appreciating the value and equality of every member (I Cor. 12:12-14).
    
9. Being with those who promote peace with each other (Rom. 12:18).
    
10. Having a wonderful, supportive family, knowing that every member faces temptations (I Cor. 10:13).
     
11. Walking with those who are longing to spend eternity in heaven with all the faithful (II Tim. 4:8).
     
12. Reminding one another of the benefits of having access to all the spiritual blessings that are only found in Christ (Eph. 1:3-4).

Christians are so blessed to be called children of God (I Jn. 3:1).  As such, they all belong to a spiritual family that is to be appreciated by all. The question is, who wouldn’t want to be part of a family that enjoys all the things listed?

Chuck

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