Our lives consist of different types of relationships. The relationship we share as members of the body of Christ is truly unique among our relationships.
1 John 1:1-4 (NKJV)
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us— that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.”
We are joined together as one body, one family, through the good news of Jesus. We are united with the Lord through His death, burial, and resurrection in baptism (ref. Rom. 6). and we become members of His body, the Church (ref. Eph. 5:23).
I have heard some express, “Give me Jesus, but I don’t need the church.” I understand at times; relationships are complex. The Church is not an exception. Sometimes, as we are involved with relationships in the body of Christ, it can be complicated, like family. However, you cannot separate Jesus from His church, the body. They are one. The Church is not a building. It’s not brick and mortar or stained glass. It is the body of Christ!
John writes about the fellowship we have in Christ (ref. 1 Jn. 1:3). The word fellowship is from the Greek word that means a partnership or participation. Although meals shared can be a great time of fellowship, John is talking about more than a meal. John is speaking about unity and being united together as we participate in the good news of Jesus. This relationship, among all our other relationships, is truly unique. It is a relationship we should cherish, value, and honor as we serve one another.
Blessings!
Steve E.
endnotes:
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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