1So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
- Paul make a plea for Christian unity in the first 11 verses.
- In verses 1-2, we see the basis for unity, followed by a brief summary of how to live in unity (v. 3-5), and concludes with an example of unity in v. 6-11.
- “if” – although not repeated in the ESV translation the word is used 4 times in this verse, highlighting each phrase. The word would probably be best understood as the word “assuming” in our English minds.
- Each phrase in this verse essentially highlights the blessings and benefits of Christian community. We should seek to foster these qualities within ourselves and guard and display them within the church. 1) encouragement, 2) comfort, 3) fellowship (working together), and 4) compassion and concern
- Thus we should ask ourselves these questions as we “grade” our church membership…
- 1) Am I a cheerleader or Debbie Downer when it comes to my church and it’s kingdom ministries?
- 2) How am I displaying love to those in my church?
- 3) Am I a sitter or a server? How am I actively participating in my church’s ministries?
- 4) Do I show genuine compassion and concern for the needs of those in my church?