The One Another Commands of the New Testament

The summer months and into September will focus on the "one another" commands in the New Testament. These commands are mentioned over 50 times, illustrating how Christians should treat each other. Before delving into individual commands, the sermon addresses three key questions: Why are there so many "one another" commands? How do we put them into practice? What will be their impact?

1. Why Are There So Many "One Another" Commands?

• Nature of the Church:
  The church is not a building or a club; it is a spiritual entity composed of people united to Jesus Christ. This unity is mystical and supernatural, as depicted through various biblical metaphors:
  • Vine and Branches: John 15
  • Temple: Ephesians 2
  • Body: Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12
• Unity in Christ:
  Christians are united to Christ and thus to each other. This unity implies a profound interconnectedness, requiring specific behavior towards one another. Paul's experience on the Damascus Road (Acts 9) underscores this unity when Jesus says, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" highlighting that to persecute Christians is to persecute Christ himself.

2. How Do We Put These Commands into Practice?

• Active Involvement:
  Obeying these commands requires deep involvement in each other's lives, not just superficial interactions. Examples include:
  • Confessing sins: James 5:16
  • Carrying burdens: Galatians 6:2
  • Offering hospitality: 1 Peter 4:9
• Beyond Weekly Services:
  The commands assume frequent and significant interaction among believers, beyond just attending weekly services. Acts 2:46 illustrates the early church's commitment to daily fellowship and shared lives.

3. What Will Be the Impact of the "One Another" Commands?

• Transformation of the Church:
  Practicing these commands will transform the church, making it a harmonious and healthy body. While perfect obedience is unattainable, striving towards it will greatly enhance the church's fellowship.
• Witness to the World:
  Living out these commands will make the church a powerful witness to the world. The church should stand out as a community of love, contrasting sharply with the selfishness and discord in the world. This distinctiveness can attract non-believers and validate the gospel message. Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:14-16 about being a "city on a hill" reinforces this call to be a visible and attractive community.

Lessons for Us:

1. Understand the Spiritual Nature of the Church: Recognize that the church is a spiritual entity, and our unity in Christ profoundly impacts our relationships with one another.

2. Commit to Deep Involvement: Engage deeply in the lives of fellow believers, going beyond mere attendance to meaningful participation and support.

3. Strive for Transformation: Aim to practice the "one another" commands consistently, fostering a loving and harmonious church community.

4. Be a Witness: Let the distinctiveness of our community's love and unity serve as a testimony to the world, drawing others to Christ.