The Household of Faith

Now that we've defined what discipleship is (helping others follow Christ), we will periodically expand on how we as God's men can be active disciplers and help grow and strengthen the body of Christ.

Paul ended his letter to the Galatians by stressing the importance of helping fellow believers. He instructed them to gently restore those who have fallen into sin (Galatians 6:1) and to bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ (v.2). This is an essential part of fulfilling the Great Commandment to love others as you love yourself (Mark 12:31). Paul goes on to provide encouragement to those who help others; reminding them that they will reap benefit if they don't grow weary and quit (v.9).

Now catch the priority focus in verse 10---So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone and especially to those who are of the household of faith (emphasis added). While we should never dismiss the importance of outreach, the first place to love others is right in our church! Fellow believers must be a priority in our lives because we share the common bond of faith in the person of Jesus Christ. We should actively seek opportunities to pour into the lives of others at Ogletown and encourage them to grow in Christ likeness. Nothing strengthens the church like disciples making disciples.

It is a blessing for me to be able to minister to the men of Ogletown and help them in their spiritual walk. It is a blessing to see how others in our church family minister to and meet the needs of others in our body. It is a privilege to belong to the household of faith; a family that will last throughout eternity because to what Christ did on Calvary.