As we saw this last Lord’s Day from 1 Pet. 3:8, true people of God long to grow with each other in the Christ-exalting attitudes of unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, tender hearts, and humble minds. Our longing in this is for the excellencies of Christ to be more fully displayed and proclaimed through us 1 Pet. 2:9-12. We are to lovingly work for each other’s joy in Christ (2 Cor. 1:24), so that He would be exalted.
This implies, of course, that there is to be a tenacious, sacrificial, unquestionable loyalty between believers, especially in the local church. Referring to the special bonds of biological families, we often say, “blood is thicker than water.” If this is true, how much more should it be so for the family of God in a local church, purchased through the precious blood of Jesus Christ?
With this in mind, what a rich and special time we shared during our Members’ Meeting last Sunday evening. It was encouraging to be with so many of you (we missed those who couldn’t make it!), and sense the active attitudes of 1 Pet. 3:8 as we considered the Lord’s work among us. One tangible evidence of overflowing hearts, and an eagerness to practically love each other, occurred with our Benevolence Offering. Almost $3800 was given! What a kind and generous expression of care, indicative of Christ’s love growing among us, and being proclaimed through us!
Beloved, we are imperfect people, who are a part of an imperfect local church. But our supremely perfect Chief Shepherd is working among us for our eternal good in Him. We sometimes experience His painful pruning care, but always with the joyful assurance that His design is to bring forth much fruit for His glory ( Jn. 15:1-8.)
I love you in Christ, and count it a great privilege to share life in Him with you at RCG!