Following Jesus TogetherSample

Paul’s letters give us a glimpse into his life, but we don’t really hear him talk about his family. We know he had some family who cared about him because his nephew saved his life in Acts 23. When Paul was imprisoned or travelling, we know he got lonely because of passages like 2 Timothy 4:16. But we don’t see Paul pining for his natural family. We see him pining for his church family.

Jesus offers his life to reconcile us with God and to unite his people in one brotherhood. Sin brings discord and death into our relationship with God and also into our relationships with one another. One way that the gospel changes human life is by bringing harmony into all our relationships. The way we relate to God is changed as he forgives us and draws us near to himself, and the way we relate to people is changed as our selfish desires are crucified and the love of Jesus is planted in us.

Look at how this love and selflessness shape Paul’s relationship with the Church in Thessalonica. He compares himself (and Silas and Timothy) with nursing mothers and encouraging fathers. He’s delighted to share the gospel and his life with the Thessalonians. When he is separated from them, he feels like an orphan who has lost his family! What will be his crowning glory when Jesus returns? The church! Paul’s joy will be seeing that the people he loves benefitted from the service he offered them.

How do you feel about your church? Maybe you are thankful for it, or maybe you feel distant. Can you see the gospel bringing harmony and joy into your relationships? How can you invest in the relationships you have in your church this month? Are you delighted to share your life with them, or are you tempted to withdraw from them? Are there any sacrifices you need to make for the sake of the gospel having its full effect on your relationships?

If you live in the UK and want help finding a church, or if you want to find out more about the provider of this plan, check out Agapé UK