Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
As much time as the Apostle took to list those he wished would salute, he also warned the believers to mark those which cause divisions.
- There is a salute, and
- There is a mark.
They are practically opposites. To salute is to embrace and to draw near. To mark is to keep your eye on and to avoid.
We would all rather get along with everyone. Our Christian persuasion leads us to look for the best in people, to remember God loves them. To reflect on the fact that, as much as we might not like their ideas and their actions, we too are sinners every bit as much as they. We want to live peaceably with all men. We certainly don’t want to be the ones causing divisions.
But the warning of the Word of God is clear. As Christians, we are to draw near those who seek the unity of the local church and to keep a suspicious eye on those who don’t.
This is the point of church membership. It defines, distinguishes, and delineates those who are with us and those who are not.
- Have you trusted Christ as Saviour?
- Are you in accord with the doctrines of a local body of believers?
Then identify with them through common baptism and yoke up with them in fellowship and membership.
#UnityInChrist #ChurchMembership #BiblicalDoctrine #ChristianFellowship #GuardTheFaith
Church Membership: A Christian's Guide to Church Unity
Call to Action
- Are you actively contributing to the unity of your local church?
- Reach out to a fellow church member to encourage and support them in their walk with Christ.
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