The YAVs and their intentional community are reading Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life Together this month. Bonhoeffer eloquently reminds us that Christian fellowship is, “not an ideal which we must realize; it is rather a reality created by God in Christ in which we may participate in.” Life together has its challenges, but we are so blessed to be guided by God’s Word and the Spirit each day.
What love is, only Christ tells in his Word. Contrary to all my own opinions and convictions, Jesus Christ will tell me what love toward the brethren really is. Therefore, spiritual love is bound solely to the Word of Jesus Christ… Because spiritual love does not desire but rather serves, it loves an enemy as a brother. It originates neither in the brother nor in the enemy but in Christ and his Word.
Our community turned to the Word and shared scripture that we felt helped guide us in community living. Here are a few:
“Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” – Romans 14:13
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!’ On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor.” – 1 Corinthians 12:20-23
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” – Romans 12:6-8
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
What verses have helped guide you in living in Christian community?
