Oasis Church

To love each other in the same way that Jesus has loved us will require a great deal of Time.

A New Commandment (John 13:34-35)

• What? Love “one another” just as Jesus has loved us. Actions, not just feelings or statements.

• Who? Other believers. Particularly those we are intentionally and locally connected to (local church).

Devoted Relationship (Acts 2:42-47)

• “devoted themselves” = to persist in something, hold fast, continue, persevere.

• “the fellowship” = close association involving mutual interest and sharing, close relationship.

• This kind of practical love demands Time: consistent, prioritized and protected.

• Quality Time does not, it cannot, exist without Quantity Time. (see vs 46, “day by day”)

• Jesus loved His followers by investing Time all the way to His departure. (John 13:1)

Gathered Together

• The gathering of local believers is the foundational arena where loving “one another” begins.

• The local church, from its earliest expression, gathers weekly for worship, instruction, encouragement and building up one another in love. (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2; Rev. 1:10; Heb. 10:24-25)

• Are we saying that Christians should attend a local church gathering every week? Absolutely Yes! (Exceptions: sickness, travel, emergencies, other rare occasions)

• Why? Because God is worthy of our worship, He designed us to be together and it is the most basic place where Time can develop and express the Love that Jesus commands us to have for One Another.

• Why do we neglect to gather?

Make Time for One Another

• Decide to see this weekly gathering as an expression of love for your bothers and sisters.

• Make necessary schedule adjustments to consistently prioritize and protect this time each week.

• Take the initiative to get to know the folks you see each week.