“Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”  

- Matthew 18:19-20

In the Old Testament, the temple or tabernacle stood as a reminder of their separation from God.

God was personally present, but the curtain dividing the holiest of places blocked even the priests from entering whenever they wanted.

But, when Christ sacrificed His life for our sins, the veil that separated us from God was torn from the top to the bottom! Christ’s sacrifice gave us direct access to God.

Later, in the New Testament, Paul tells the Corinthians that they are “God’s building.” As believers in Christ, the Corinthians had the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, with Christ as the foundation–and so do we!

The Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit is present whenever two or more believers gather together.

How wonderful is that!? God demonstrates His love for us through others and uses us to meet one another’s needs. Just like iron sharpens iron, being in the presence of other believers who know us well helps us choose the right path, stay the course and grow closer to God.

To help us better understand, God gives us another example. His Word tells us that the Church is like the body.

Paul explains in Corinthians that Christ is the head of the Church and believers are the body. 1 Corinthians 12: 17-20 describes how each has a specific function, but together we work as a whole. For example, some may be the eyes, or others the arms and feet. But, together as a whole, we can function as one, accomplishing God’s will.

So what can we learn from these examples of the Church?

As believers and members of the church community, we can use our gifts and talents to serve others–sharing in their lives and sufferings. Together we can grow in our understanding of Scripture, edifying and serving one another.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me to love others as you do. Please help me to be encouraging, building up others. Amen.

With Love,
Sherry Shepherd