Greg Chandler
03/27/15
Deciding the command to “edify one another” was not simply decoration on a page, but rather a command of God, a local church decided it was time to build. Each member, realizing that the responsibility ultimately begins with the individual, started construction with deep introspection to remove all vestiges of apathy and to firmly, and with conviction, commit to the challenge. The words of Paul rang in the ears of each member: “So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another” (Romans 12:5). The building was now ready to progress.
The leadership within the local church realized their unique role in helping with the building project. As shepherds, they determined to provide opportunities to encourage building. Bible-centered classes were offered so that members could discuss godly topics in order to “stir one another up to good works” (Hebrews 10:24). God-centered worship was well organized and planned in order to give Him great glory and to give opportunity for members to encourage one another in their Christ-centered fellowship (Hebrews 10:26). More than shepherds, the leadership also realized their need to be positive examples to the congregation. Their words were well chosen as they offered encouragement, comfort, and admonition to these sheep under their charge. Their homes were open, with both the leaders and their wives graciously extending the hand of New Testament hospitality as they demonstrated love and concern for one another (I Peter 4:9).
The deacons within the congregation also realized their place in the building project. In their quiet work as stewards, they set out to be servants to their fellow-Christians, understanding well the command God has given to serve one another (Galatians 5:13, I Peter 4:10). The needs of sick members were cared for, widows knew they had a friend, and each member understood the care and responsibility these men undertook in making sure many of the unseen tasks of the local church were accomplished. Their wives also shared well in the work of their husbands. Like the wives of the leadership, these godly women opened their homes to their spiritual family and demonstrated fulfillment of the command to love one another (John 13:34). With their quiet spirit and godly demeanor, these families helped raise and set the rafters in the church’s building project.
Those who taught publicly did not forsake their work in building. Men and women who volunteered to provide Bible classes spent hours preparing to guide their classes in the most effective way in understanding God’s word. Faithful women diligently prepared solid Bible classes to help children as they build their spiritual foundations; men responsible for teaching adult Bible classes were well-organized and methodically guided fellow-learners through a set portion of the Scriptures. The “full-time” preachers made sure that lessons delivered to the assembly were uplifting and convicting, thus providing a well-balanced diet which encouraged growth as well as admonished to shun wrong. In fact, all of the men who had opportunity to address the congregation made sure their lessons were Bible based, easily understood, and applicable to their fellow-Christians.
Interestingly, there were no retirees in this building project. While there were several “senior” Christians, each made sure that he or she was helping in the building project. Knowing that a lifetime of living should not go to waste (Proverbs 16:31), these members took occasion to help those younger avoid pitfalls that can come when one is inexperienced in life. Many of these senior members still took an active role in the church’s teaching program and, even for those whose bodies would no longer allow such, every opportunity to encourage and edify fellow-members in the work was undertaken.
Younger members certainly did not shirk their responsibilities. These young Christians came to their Bible classes well-prepared and energetically entered into the discussions. They took advantage of devotionals set up specifically for their age group and often sought to go “above and beyond” by taking part in special actions to help uplift their older brethren. Their vigor and enthusiasm helped to set a tone in the congregation that encouraged every member to work even harder.
Whether young or old, man or woman, married or single, the church worked hard on its building project. Homes were opened to hospitality, encouraging emails were sent daily to both the weak and strong, and cards of exhortation were mailed to those who suffered both spiritual and physical illnesses. Each member vigorously joined in the times of worship and collective study and never dreamed of “forsaking the assembly.” This band of Christians took ownership of the Lord’s command to edify one another and every member was spiritually uplifted as a result. The construction of their building was one that could withstand whatever storm came through because its foundation was laid in Heaven. It was a church that could truly claim the distinction of being of Christ.