Articles
ONE ANOTHER
Have you ever noticed a phrase often used in God's Scriptures, especially in the New Testament? Its "ONE ANOTHER". Since its used so often there surely is a special need for us to give close attention to its meaning. So let us observe a few of these.
Paul gives us some very important instructions in the Philippian letter, especially in the beginning of chapter two:
"...make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard ONE ANOTHER as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude to yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, " (Philipppians 2:2-5)
Then also in the Roman letter we often find this used " For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, for we, who are many, are ONE BODY IN CHRIST, and individually members ONE OF ANOTHER. (Romans 12:4-5)
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cleave to what is good. Be DEVOTED TO ONE ANOTHER in brotherly love, give preference to ONE ANOTHER in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; " (Romans 12:9-11)
"Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER;"
for indeed you do practice it toward all the brethren who are in Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, TO EXCEL STILL MORE." (1 Thessalonians 4:9-10)
"Beloved, let us LOVE ONE ANOTHER, for love is from God; and every one who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." (1 John 4:7,8)
"If one says , "I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen" And this commandment we have from Him that the one who loves God SHOULD LOVE HIS BROTHER ALSO." (1 John 4:20)
There are many more examples using this term we could refer to; but I think we can see the importance of how we treat and behave towards others, especially those of the Lord's family. It seems to me we could all take these commands and instructions more seriously. We must remember none of us can reach the goal alone. And each of us will give account of what we do while on this earth. (2 Corinthians 5:10) You might like to go read Paul's instructions to the brethren in First Corinthians chapter 12, especially verses 12 thru 27.
"But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. And if they are all one member, where would the body be? But now there are many members, but one body. (1 Corinthians 12:18-20)
"...that there should be no division in the body, but that the members should have the same care for ONE ANOTHER." (1 Corinthians 12:25)
I think by examining the many Scriptures telling us how important our care for and love for ONE ANOTHER is, we should take seriously the lesson He is giving us--the Lord's body and our part in that body is our most important responsibility, living by His instructions for ONE ANOTHER. Are we listening?
Thanks for a bit of your time....enjoy the day.
Ross
