One Body In Christ

There are 4 “One Another-s” Paul emphasizes in the 12 chapter of Romans: verses 4-5, 10, 16

Briefly look at each.

The Mutuality Of The Body To One Another (vs 4-5)

(Vs. 4-5 is in the context of spiritual gifts.)

The Diversity Of Its Members

Many members

All do not have the same function

The Unity Of Its Members

Although many, we are still one.

We are interdependent.

The Need Of Its Members

There is a need of the various parts of the body for each other.

Each member profits from what the other members contribute to the whole.

We need each other and God has blessed us with differing gifts to meet each others needs.

The Devotion Of Its Members One To Another (vs 10)

Philostorgos

philos - friend; storge - a natural family love or tender affection.

Loving with a natural affection that characterizes members of the same family.

Family Devotion

Philadelphia

philos - friend; adelphos - brother

Brotherly love.

Out of a common spiritual life

The Honoring Of The Body One To Another (vs 10)

Proegeomai

To take the lead; lead by example.

Specifically here in honoring or esteeming one another.

To take the lead in showing honor to one another.

With the full thought along the lines of “outdoing one another in honoring each other.”

The Attitude Of Its Members To Each Other (vs 16)

Be Of The Same Mind - Live in harmony

Do Not Think High Things Of Oneself

To be proud, thinking one is superior to others.

To think they have it all figured out and don’t need help.

To think that they have learned it all and can’t be taught.

Associate With The Lowly

In mind, position, or means

Who is discouraged or depressed?

Who is in a menial or “low” position of status?

Who is lacking in some basic essentials?

Helps guard against strife and division.

Helps create a caring environment where you are looking out for one another.

This implies something, though. You know each other well enough to do these things. When someone is low, or in need, or can be shown honor.

I challenge you this weekend to find someone you don’t know well and get to know them a little better.