On Wednesdays this summer, we are having our usual summer guest speaker series in an unusual way. Each Wednesday you can find our guest speaker’s video lesson on our Facebook and YouTube pages. David Dirrim and I had already begun planning for our theme and speakers before our routines and meetings changed. We had chosen the theme, “One Another” for this summer. Since March, it has become very clear to all of us just how important those “one another” relationships are in our lives. As we have faced social distancing and racial tensions in our nation, we know that having the kind of relationships that God desires will take some effort on our part.The Bible has a lot to say about how we should treat one another. Although there are many places we could look, I would like you to think about what Paul told the Ephesian church about their relationships and what we can learn from them.
- Their love for other Christians was a blessing (Ephesians 1:16). One of the things Paul was thankful for was that love. It not only helped their interaction, but it served as an example for others.
- The blood of Jesus has the power to reconcile groups that were once separate (Ephesians 2:11-18). The church at Ephesus may have struggled because they came from different backgrounds, but those who once felt apart were now welcome. In the midst of our national racial struggles, this is a powerful message. God intends to bring a peaceful whole out of splintered groups.
- They are fellow citizens of God’s kingdom (Ephesians 2:19-22). People who might otherwise have nothing in common now had a reason to be unified. Being part of God’s family supersedes all our other affiliations.
- Their love for one another would help them know Christ better (Ephesians 3:14-19). Following Jesus was always intended to be a team event. Although there is a personal side to that relationship, it is never fully what it could be without the community of believers.
- They needed to continue striving for unity (Ephesians 4:1-6). Paul told them to live a life “worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” Usually when we talk about something like that, we tend to talk about behaviors and avoiding sin. Paul talks about unity, humility and patience. Living a life that honors God always includes treating one another well.
- They had to watch their words, not just their actions (Ephesians 4:25-32). Our words can easily build up or tear down. We must choose them well, keep them honest and make them positive.
- How they treated one another began at home (Ephesians 5:1-6:9). We cannot forget those who are closest to us when we want to treat one another in a way that honors God. He wants that same love, kindness and respect to be the foundation of our family interaction.
- Praying for each other is essential (Ephesians 6:18-20). We pray for each other when struggles and loss come into our lives, but let’s not forget to pray for one another regularly. Paul begins the letter talking about his regular prayer for them and ends it by reminding them to do the same.
It is an undeniable, scriptural truth that how we treat one another matters to God. I pray this summer will be a reminder and encouragement for us as we love one another.
Brian