Standing alone can be hard and leaves us vulnerable. If we work together the load is lighter and the results are multiplied. When we fall, others come to our aid. Though one may be overpowered, and two can defend themselves, a three strand cord cannot easily be broken.
What is the church
No one respects our free choice more than God. It is amazing the way he works to call us to him. Even the angels watch eagerly. He tells of gifts he has given the church to serve each other. Gifts used to equip his people, to build up his church. Gifts given to all to continue until he returns.
We all have a part. ”Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers.”
Ephesians 4:11 NLT
Nehemiah understood the purpose of these gifts. They were not to lord over people but were put in place of authority to come against the principalities and powers in the spiritual realm, to protect God’s people and to train them to do the same so that they can live in peace.
"Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ" Ephisians 3:12
The greatest of these is love
Serving others is a challenge. At our best we give all that we have, are full of joy, and are content in our work. When we know we are working within our gifts and understand our purpose and value, we are able to love the people we serve. The joy and fulfillment continue and love abounds.
“This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:13 NLT
Mountain Lakes Ministry 