We are the Body of Christ The church is one body with many members (not denominations) (1 Cor. 12:12, 20, 27). If you are a Christian, you have been baptized into that one body (1 Cor. 12:13; Acts 2:47) of which Christ is the head (Eph. 1:22-23). We share a common faith, fellowship, and hope! (Eph. 4:4-6) Each part of the body should be working harmoniously together to become more like Christ which leads to the spiritual growth of the whole body (Eph. 4:15-16).

The Body has many Members but is United The local church is to be united in Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:10-13) If there is jealousy, strife, immorality, or error among us, it could destroy the rest of the body like cancer (1 Co. 3:3; 5:1ff; 2 Ti. 2:17). God has designed the body to achieve His purposes for the good of all (1 Cor. 12:7; 18). Just as the eye, hand, foot, etc. have different functions in the body but are united in doing what the head says, we have different talents, abilities, and opportunities to serve the Lord! Let us all use them to God’s glory (1 Pet. 4:11).

Each Member of the Body of Christ is: Vital You are valuable in the church! (1 Cor. 12:14-19) A students godly influence at school. (1 Timothy 4:12) An elderly saint whose perseverance inspires others through their suffering. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Hebrews 6:10ff) Spouses who love each other in their respective roles (Eph. 5:22f).

Each Member of the Body of Christ is: Vital A mother who patiently teaches her children to be godly (2 Timothy 1:5). A father who trains his children with love. (Ephesians 6:4) The Bible class teacher or preacher; song or prayer leader; preparing the table; groundskeeper or cleaning the building. But if you can’t preach, teach, or lead singing it doesn’t make you any less important!

Each Member of the Body of Christ is: Needed (1 Corinthians 12:20-22) No one is to be preeminent above others, even the preacher (3 John 1:9). Even the weaker members are necessary. (12:22) If we are to successful in serving the Lord, we cannot selfishly demand our way, but should humbly submit what is best for the rest of the body (Romans 12:3-4; 16; Philippians 2:3ff).

Each Member of the Body of Christ is: Honorable (1 Corinthians 12:23-25) Just as we adorn our physical bodies so that all of our parts may be honorably presented (modest), God has arranged the body of Christ, so that the honor of each member is displayed to God’s glory, even to the weakest. We should be kind, compassionate, and patient with each other (Colossians 3:12ff). If you have more talent or ability than others don’t look down on your weaker brethren!

Each Member of the Body of Christ has: Mutual care and concern for each other (1 Corinthians 12:25-27) If there is division in the body this command is hard to obey. We should help each other to remain faithful (Gal. 6:1; 1 Thess. 5:14). When a part of our physical body suffers, the rest does also. Whether joy or sorrow, pain or pleasure, we should share it with others so that we can pray for and encourage each other. (James 5:16)

We must each do our part so that the body functions properly (Ephesians 4:16). We respect our Head, Christ, and do what He says (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:24). When we fail to do our part as a member of the body, the whole body suffers! We have a few who have been baptized recently and others who have placed membership here at Hwy. 290 church of Christ. What you can do to help this church grow?

We must each do our part so that the body functions properly (Ephesians 4:16) Read and diligently study the Scriptures so that you might be approved to God and handle it accurately. (be prepared for Bible class) (2 Timothy 2:15) Be the best spouse, parent, employee, student, or child that you can be in your daily conduct (1 Pt 1:14-15). Be as faithful as you can in attendance because that will encourage or discourage others (Heb. 10:23-25). Pray for, get to know, and encourage the shut-ins, the sick, the weak, the new converts. Invite your friends, neighbors, coworkers and loved ones to come to our gospel meeting or go to our website.

Conclusion None of us can do everything, and yet all of us can do something in the Lord’s service. But if you are not a member of the body of Christ, you can’t be useful in His service. If you repent and are willing to be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins, the Lord will add you to His body, the church (Acts 2:47). Then we can grow in the body to become more like Christ (2 Peter 3:18). May we do all that we can to honor Christ and His church!