Abandoning Isolation for One Another

This month’s Pastor’s Perspective is delivered by Pastor Peyton Hill of First Baptist Church of Prattville

Isolation produces dangerous repercussions for Christian discipleship.

The “one another” commands in the New Testament are famous. “Love one another” (John 13:34). “Be devoted to one another” (Romans 12:10). “Serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). “Exhort one another” (Hebrews 3:13). “Confess your sins to one another” (James 5:16). The list could go on and on and on. In fact, there are at least 59 clear “one another” commands in the New Testament.

As the Church continues to climb out of the Covid hole, it’s time to consider the dangerous repercussions of the recent months on Christian discipleship. While livestream worship services and Zoom Bible studies have allowed churches to remain connected,

the lack of gathering in person has done more than affect our face-to-face relationships.

When churches could not gather, they could not properly live out the “one another” commands of Scripture. Each of these commands were given to be carried out in the context of the local church. But when there is no gathering, there is very little exhorting, addressing, confessing, and singing to one another going on.

Now that many churches are beginning to regather again with normal ministries and activities, it’s important for disciples of Christ to regain their commitment to the “one another” commands of Scripture.

Christian discipleship works best when in the context of relationships, and what better relationships than those within the family of God? Let’s look for opportunities to live out the “one another” passages in the context of our churches, and let’s continue our discipleship of Jesus—the Ultimate Fulfillment of the “one another” passages who gave His life for the good of…well, others.

Peyton joined FBC Prattville in August 2019 as senior pastor. He is passionate about preaching Christ from the entire Bible and motivating believers for global missions. Peyton is married to Jordan Lee, and they have four children: Harper, Zane, Elliot and Wren. Visit www.fbcprattville.org for more information and service times.