Relational Connections

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:1-4 (NKJV)

We live in a Post-Modern world, that has Post-Modern problems. People are more transient and less likely to put down roots, people are more disconnected from reality and relationships, people are more lonely and isolated, people have fewer real friends and very few life-long covenant friendships, people are starving socially--with a need to be known and to be loved by others. If there was ever a time when true Christian Fellowship should be effective and offer real-life solutions to this problem--that time would be now!

My working definition of Biblical Fellowship is: "The relational connections between Believers that have been and are being established by God." This is like the Church having a super powerful secret weapon, because, these relational connections are based on Agape, God's love. According to 1 Corinthians 13:8, "Love never fails." I would suggest that this puts Biblical Fellowship at the center of the most secure relationships possible.

The Apostle Paul called us to a very high standard when it comes to our relationships. We are to strive for unity and humility as we relate to others in our spiritual family. Both of these Godly virtues cut against the grain of the natural human condition, but are both necessary in the building of authentic fellowship. We must learn to lay aside our petty differences and embrace the person of Christ who polarizes us into unity. We must also find value in serving one another--putting the real needs of others before our need to look out for number one...maybe, just maybe we need a new number one.

Prayer: (The Lord's Prayer) "Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen." Matt 6:9-13 (NKJV)