How to Build Stronger Relationships as a Church Family

One of the ways the Bible refers to the church is as a family. We are the
household of God (1 Timothy 3:15), members of the same family
(Ephesians 2:19), and eternal brothers and sisters in Christ (Matthew 23:8;
1 Peter 2:17). This is how the church is viewed from heaven’s perspective.
We must strive to share this same view of the family of God. This means
we must be more than worship partners who come to the same building
three times a week. God’s desire is that as we prepare to spend eternity
together in His presence, our bonds with each other would deepen in view
of the eternal fellowship we will enjoy in heaven (Revelation 7:9-17).
We often talk about wanting to be closer and strengthening our love and
affiliation as a church family. It is right that this be a top priority because
love among disciples is one of Jesus’ top requirements for His church
(John 13:34-35; 15:12; 1 John 4:19-21). How can we build stronger
relationships as a church family? This is not to suggest there are no strong
relationships or that we are distant and cold, but how can we excel and
abound?

1. Worship Together (Acts 2:42) - Our worship is vertical toward God but
also horizontal as we build each other up. The early church assembled to
worship, and as they did, they grew closer (Acts 2:42). While there are
times to worship privately (James 5:16), corporate worship is a time of
blessing as we draw near to each other and to God (James 4:8). When we
worship, be sure you worship. Sing to God but also to me (Ephesians
5:19). Take the Lord’s Supper and examine what He did for you and for us
as a family (1 Corinthians 11:23-30). When we pray and say “Amen,” we
agree together and draw closer as family.

2. Work Together (Acts 5:42; 8:4) - As we do kingdom work together, our
lives intertwine in healthy ways. Fellowship is joint participation in spiritual
things. As we engage in evangelism (Acts 5:42; 8:4), service to the needy
(James 1:27), and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24), we become closer
than ever. If you are not as close to others as you’d like, be more invested
in the church’s work (1 Corinthians 15:58). As we labor together, our
relationships evolve (Philippians 1:27).

3. Walk Through Life Together (Romans 12:15) - Doing life together
builds bonds that can’t be manufactured. Rejoicing and weeping together
remind us we do not live the Christian life alone. As we restore each other
and bear burdens (Galatians 6:1-5), we grow beyond acquaintances. The
early church spent their days together, shaping their relationships (Acts
2:43-47). The more time we spend together, the stronger our ties become.

4. Willing to Forgive (Ephesians 4:32) - Strong relationships require
forgiveness. Getting close means there will be hurts and disappointments.
As we repent, reconcile, and forgive, our connections grow stronger.
Refuse to hold a grudge (Colossians 3:12-14). Forgive as Christ forgave
you (Ephesians 4:32). Reject bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). When we do, our
relationships will blossom, and we will behave like the forever family we
truly are.

-Hiram Kemp