We Are Brothers And Sisters In Christ

This fall, we are exploring what the Bible says about who we are as God's people, focusing on the images of Kingdom of God, Family of God and Body of Christ. As God's people, we are members of God's family (Gal. 6:10; Eph. 5:1). This means that we are brothers and sisters in Christ, a truth that comes with some very practical implications. Because We are Brothers and Sisters in Christ... We Are to Humbly Grow Together (Gal. 6:1) After inviting the Galatians to live by the Spirit, Paul then called them to support each other in this process by fostering an environment where restorative truth can be offered and received. This environment grows best when each of us take initiative in inviting others to speak truth into our lives. We Are to Carry Each Other's Burdens (Gal. 6:2) Having challenged the Galatians to live by the law of Christ's love, Paul then called them to build the kind of community where overwhelming struggles are not carried alone. This environment grows when we move beyond comparison to compassion and humility. We are to Work Through Our Dissension and Hurt (Eph. 4:15-32) Paul recognized that we will frustrate and anger one another and so challenged the Ephesians to not let their anger lead to resentment and division (vs. 25-27) Rather, we are to... - Speak the truth in love (v.15) - Forgive one another (v. 32) Discussion/Reflection Questions - What does it mean to you that you are "brothers and sisters" with ALL other followers of Christ? How does this encourage you? How does it challenge you? - In what ways have you experienced loving challenge and accountability in your life? Have you given permission to anyone to lovingly restore you when they see you off track in your walk with God? If not, who might you trust to do this? - In what ways have you had others support you in overwhelming times? How can you intentionally be part of building into your community a spirit of mutual support in difficult times? - How is unchecked resentment toxic to godly community? Have you experienced the freedom and restoration that comes from forgiveness? Is there anyone you need to forgive?