In Scripture, there is a single Greek word that is translated into our two-word phrase, “one another.” It is allēlōn (a-lay-lone), and it is used to describe people in a relationship with each other.
Throughout Scripture, we see followers of Jesus living and working together. Many are people with nothing else in common other than the fact that they have been transformed by the love and life of Jesus. Taking a closer look at some of the “one another” commands will help us see how God wants us to live in community. Let’s look at five of these allēlōn statements. Read the Scripture listed and consider the following question and statements for each:
- How can you practically live out the instructions given on your leadership team and in your group?
- Take a moment to express gratitude for those who have shown you how to live this out in community.
- Take a moment to privately confess if there is a shortfall in your life in this area.
Love one another.
- John 13:34 — A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
- 1 John 4:12 — No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
Serve One Another.
- Galatians 5:13 — You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
Forgive one another.
- Ephesians 4:32— Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Honor one another.
- Romans 12:10 — Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Pray for One Another.
- James 5:16 — Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
First Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Let’s be women focused on consistently building each other up — whether through simple words of encouragement, living well in our community or having hard conversations.
Question:
- How can you encourage someone today?
* All Scripture is taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
Kelli Jordan (kellijordan.blog)