For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. (Romans 12:4-5)
The word “member” takes on its true meaning through Paul’s explanation. Our membership makes us a living and necessary part of the larger body of believers, and it is essential to the well-being of the body that we function properly. God has so formed us that we do not work very well alone, but there is an interdependence that follows the model set forth in the Trinity – distinct Persons, distinct roles, oneness, unity, and perfect love. Let the same be true of the local church and its members.
Satan is sure to oppose every effort to establish and maintain a healthy body of believers, and we do well to be aware of his wiles and works against our unity and purpose. The spiritual opposition is fierce, but the victory is ours if we stand our ground and refuse to be separated from each other and our calling in Christ. Our well-being is found in our devotion to the head, Jesus, and our love for one another. If we keep the unity of the Spirit, we are truly Christ's body and witness to a desperate world. May the church, individual and corporate, be true to her calling and to her head, Jesus Christ.
Let's Pray - Dear Lord, I am grateful to be a member of the body of Jesus Christ. May I function according to the directions I receive from the Head and according to the leading of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus alone, Amen.
Amen!!! Amen!!! Not all members have the same office; the "gifts" differing. But nevertheless a necessary function. Can there be a complete body if we were all heads? Can the head stand alone? Or what if there were not a head; only a heart and legs. Could they stand alone? Nooohhh, each member makes up the whole body and we need the entire body to function well to make a healthy body. Sometimes things happen when we the church, try to live in a way that the vital organs begin to operate as the feet, eyes, and a leg...the legs operate as the eyes, the feet decide they wanna be the head, and the gifts are elevated higher than the gift giver. Sad!!!! Sad!! But it does happen when we don't take into account that we (the body) all need one another. Otherwise we become disjointed hurting one another rather than building one another up. Being mindful that we all are ONE BODY, though we are many. I need you.
ReplyDeleteTruth! This is a deeper understanding than most possess concerning church. It’s not soulish or emotional, but spiritual. It’s not a matter of convenience or preference, but obedience. This seems to require much attention and prayer in this season. Thank you, sir.
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