One of the ministries of our risen Lord is that of perfecting His people. He uses the Word of God in the fellowship of the local church. As Christians pray for one another and personally assist one another, the exalted Lord ministers to His church and makes us fit for ministry.

Someone has said, “There are no Lone Rangers in the Christian faith.”

That’s because balanced Christian growth and ministry are impossible in isolation. Someone has said that you can no more raise one Christian than you can raise one bee. Christians belong to each other and need each other. A baby must grow up in a loving family if it is to be balanced and normal.

People who emphasize the “individual Christian” as apart from his place in a local assembly are wandering into very dangerous territory. We are sheep, and we must flock together. We are members of the same body and have been called to minister to one another, as well as to the world.

Verse for today: “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose” (Philippians 2:1-2, NIV).

Consider: Hebrews 13:20-21; Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:14-20; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:11-15; Galatians 6:1.

Action assignment: Think of the rich diversity of Christians worshiping all around the world. Think about your own congregation or fellowship group. What talents do these people have? Have you discovered your own talents? Ask God how you can share them with the body of believers you know.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in