Christian Family Fellowship. PDO. Muscat Oman
Each one another’s keeper
.Key Texts:Gal 6:2, Gal 6:9, 10, John 13.4-16, l Cor 12:25, Rom 12:5
Introduction
The body of Christ is a family; The family of God. As members of this body each of us share a God given, Holy Spirit motivated concern for the common good of the entire body and well being of each member. That is the way the head (Christ) directs the body and that is the way the body responds. In this study we shall fake a close look at this subject from three perspectives; the enjoinment to bear each others burdens, the key elements involved and the examples from the scriptures. Also we shall share practical ways or experiences of being one another’s keepers.
1. Enjoined
a) What does it mean to be each others keeper? Gen 4:9 To bear one another’s burden? Ga16:1-2, Rom 15:1-2, Rom 12:10,13,16, Rom 13:8, John 13:4-16
b) Is it a matter of responsibility? or duty? A commandment to obey? Or based on a sense of belonging? An example to follow? Rom 12:5, Eph 4:25, 1 Cor 12:12-27,John 13:4-16, Eph 5:25. discuss.
2. Elements
a) Compare Gal 6:2 with Gal 6:5. Any contradictions? discuss in the context of 1 Cor 12:12-27, Rom 12:5, Eph 4:16
b) Love versus hate. But I really don’t care about that brother. I don’t hate him either. Why? 1 John3:10-12, 14, l John 4:7,8, l John 2:10-11.
Can we be indifferent in the love/hate contest? It is a fine line between love and hate. As believers not to love is to hate; True or False.
What can we soy about our ability to demonstrate care for each other, to bear each others burdens and to be our brothers keeper in the light of above. It is the mark of christian character. Who or what is the source?
e) Eph 4:2, Eph 4:32, l Cor 13, 2Petl:5-9, Gal 5:22
What other key qualities are necessary for a true brother’s keeper relationship among believers
3. Examples
Jesus our example: John 13.14
The Apostles. Acts 4:32-35 What are the evident benefits of brotherly love and unity among
the apostles?
4. Experiences (Share practical experiences)
Giving to each others need IJohn3:17-18
Help ( hospitality) Roml2:10, James 2:16
Words of encouragement Rom 12:8
Counsel Rom 15:4
Praying for each other James5:16, 2 Thess 1:11-12
Care (giving our time in serving another) Gal 5:13
What are the factors affecting the full demonstration of all these among each other?
Conclusion: By these shall all men know that ye are my disciples. The questions we need to ask ourselves are as follows; How healthy is the body? Are we properly linked to the head? Are we one in God’s perspective. As an individual member of the body how effective are you in the body?