We Believe: In the Communion of the Saints

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us 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, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." - Hebrews 10:23-25 

Reflection: 

The communion of the saints is a profound and beautiful aspect of our faith. It signifies the deep spiritual connection and fellowship that believers share with one another through their common faith in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:23-25 encourages us to hold fast to our hope, to consider one another, and to stir up love and good works. This passage highlights the importance of assembling together and exhorting one another, especially as we see the Day of the Lord approaching. 

The communion of the saints is not just about gathering for worship services; it is about living in genuine community with one another. It involves sharing our lives, supporting each other in times of need, and encouraging one another in our faith journeys. The early church exemplified this kind of community, as described in Acts 2:41-47, where believers were devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They shared their possessions and supported those in need, demonstrating the love of Christ in tangible ways. 

Romans 8:14-17 further emphasizes our identity as children of God and heirs with Christ. The Holy Spirit unites us as one family, and this spiritual bond transcends all earthly divisions. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to live in unity, love, and mutual support. The communion of the saints reminds us that we are not alone in our faith journey; we have a spiritual family that walks alongside us, prays for us, and encourages us. 

Personal Application: 

Reflecting on the communion of the saints, I am reminded of the importance of being an active and engaged member of the Christian community. It is easy to become isolated or to view church as merely a place to attend on Sundays. However, the example of the early church challenges me to invest in relationships with fellow believers and to participate in the life of the community. 

I am encouraged to seek out opportunities to connect with others, whether through small groups, service projects, or simply spending time together. Building meaningful relationships requires intentionality and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. Through these connections, I can experience the love, support, and encouragement that come from being part of the body of Christ. 

I am also reminded of the importance of encouraging and supporting others in their faith journeys. Just as I need the support of my spiritual family, others need my encouragement and prayers. By being present and involved in the lives of others, I can help to stir up love and good works, and together we can grow in our faith. 

Thought-Provoking Questions: 

1. How can you become more actively engaged in the life of your Christian community? 
2. In what ways can you build meaningful relationships with fellow believers and support them in their faith journeys? 
3. How can you encourage and stir up love and good works within your community? 
4. What steps can you take to live out the communion of the saints in your daily life? 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the communion of the saints. Help me to be an active and engaged member of the Christian community. Guide me in building meaningful relationships with fellow believers and in supporting them in their faith journeys. Strengthen our unity and help us to stir up love and good works. May we encourage one another and grow together in our faith. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. 

Written by Sarah Leasure