TOGETHER

by Kevin V. Rutherford

The Bible says the early Christians “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers (Acts 2:42).” We are told those same Christians were “continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart...(Acts 2:46)” Apparently these individuals were so happy to be Christians they wanted to be with one another as much as possible.

Being with fellow Christians for church work, for worship, and for encouraging one another can greatly strengthen us. The Christians addressed by the letter to the Hebrews were missing out on regular fellowship with their brethren (Hebrews 3:12, 13). Consequently they were beginning to fall away from the church. The writer of this book encouraged them to “consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another… (Hebrews 10:24, 25).

Paul was often anxious to be with his brethren. When he wrote to the church at Rome he said, “For I long to see you...(Romans 1:11).” When John wrote to Gaius he concluded his letter by saying, “I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face (3 John 1:13, 14).” He had a desire to be with his brother in Christ.

We should have a strong desire to spend time with our fellow Christians. Doing so should strengthen and encourage us as well as them.