Today I’d like to study the final few verses of 1st Thessalonians. As we do let’s answer the question – are we making progress in relating to the church beyond our own local church?
Paul asked them to pray for him, to greet all the brothers with a holy kiss and to share his letter with all the brothers. In other words, Paul wanted them to see themselves as a part of the universal church. We might not be able to fellowship and worship with churches in other parts of the world, but we can pray for them, especially for those who serve God in those places.
If we ever are able to fellowship with some of them we should greet them in the same way we would greet each other in our local church. In the Thessalonian church the custom was to kiss each other as a spiritual greeting or welcome. In your church you might embrace or extend a hand shake. Whatever mode of greeting is appropriate let other believers know that you appreciate them and feel bonded with them. We are one in the Lord – find a tangible, appropriate way to affirm that.
Then help each other by sharing resources you have received to help them benefit and grow. This church received a letter from Paul. It contained instructions not only appropriate for their enrichment and growth. It was appropriate for benefiting other churches as well. That’s why Paul charged them before God “to have this letter read to all the brothers.”
Every local church is a part of the universal church and is responsible to help them in any way they can. Is this true in your church? Do a reality check?
