Priesthood of Every BelieverIhe Atụ

Lesson 5: Priestly Living in Community

Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us not to neglect meeting together but to encourage one another, especially as we see the Day approaching. This passage underscores the importance of Christian community in our journey of faith, particularly as we embrace our identity as a royal priesthood. As priests, we are called to minister not only to God through our worship and sacrifices but also to one another in love, support, and encouragement.

Living out our priesthood in community means recognizing that we each have a role to play in building up the body of Christ. Just as the various parts of a physical body work together for the health of the whole, so too do the members of Christ's body contribute to its strength and vitality. This communal aspect of our priesthood highlights the interconnectedness of our faith journeys — we grow not in isolation but in the rich soil of fellowship.

Furthermore, priestly living in community involves spurring one another on toward love and good deeds. This encouragement is crucial as we navigate the challenges of faith and life. It involves celebrating each other's victories, bearing one another's burdens, and pointing each other back to Jesus when we stray. It's in the context of community that our individual offerings of worship and service are woven together into a tapestry that glorifies God and advances His kingdom on Earth.

Action Step: Reflect on your participation in the Christian community. Reach out to a fellow believer this week to offer encouragement. It could be through a prayer, a note of appreciation, or a conversation where you affirm their gifts and contributions to the body of Christ. Consider making this a regular part of your week, looking for opportunities to build up the community and fulfill your priestly role of bringing God's presence into the lives of others.