You: The Body of Christ :: Deeper Devotion

You: The Body of Christ

July 5, 2009

By Glenn Ansley

Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.

Jesus died for the church. You and I do not have to worship God alone, but are gathered together under Christ our head. The New Testament models and teaches the importance of biblical community. We must grow closer to God together, “not forsaking our own assembling… but encouraging one another.” We are Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:12). Each one of us is important to the work of the church. We are outside of God’s will when we operate outside of Christ’s body.

Acts 2:42 and following is a wonderful picture of how the people of God should draw near to each other. As a child of God, it is important that you seek out your brothers and sisters in Christ for joint worship, prayer, study, accountability and service. God has commanded us to become like Jesus. This is not possible without the influence, encouragement and prayer of other Christians. We do not serve a distant God, but One that became like us. Jesus, the Son of God, washed the feet of mortal men. He invested quality time with His disciples and the crowds, praying, teaching, and sharing meals with them. It is impossible for us to become like Jesus without spending time with other believers.

How will this truth change your plans today? When was the last time you sought out a fellow believer to pray together, to serve together, or to worship in concert? Is your local community of believers hindered in their service because you refuse to function as a part of the body? I encourage you to draw close to fellow believers today.

And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common… (Acts 2:44)

Tags: