Another Key to Growth
Doug Fields of Saddleback Valley Community Church has a test to determine the need of encouragement: “If the person is breathing, he needs encouragement.” The support we gain from one another is essential to our spiritual maturity.
The apostle Paul wrote, “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other.” (2 Thessalonians 1:3) We should thank God in prayer when He accomplishes great things in the lives of His saints. As Paul thought about the Christians in Thessalonica, he was thankful for two things: (1) the flourishing faith of the believers at Thessalonica and (2) the increasing love between them. When Paul’s letter arrived, the church at Thessalonica was on the verge of persecution. They had no idea how important their personal relationships would become. I don’t know that even Paul foresaw the extent of what was coming. In Psalm 133:1, David praised the concept of harmony in a church … “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” What produces harmony in a church? First, harmony results when believers are of one mind in truth—“for brethren.” Christian brotherhood is so intimate that any lack of unity is a disgrace. Second, harmony results when believers are of one heart in affection—“how good and how pleasant.” Third, harmony results when believers are of one focus in service—“to dwell together.” What does Christian service look like in real life? It’s about touching lives for Jesus. As the church seeks to fulfill its mission, witness to the lost, and move forward during times of crisis and distress, love becomes manifest; and spiritual growth is provoked in the membership. How has your church fellowship helped you grow spiritually?
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
