Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:1-2 NASB)
You have likely heard someone say that Christianity is a Team Sport, and in large measure, this is true. Maturity in Christ cannot be achieved in isolation, neither does it come by simply knowing propositional truth. Maturity comes when we seek to live out that truth in the context of biblical community as a part of “the team.” This is especially true as we consider the sinful fallen world in which we live, and its deep impact on each of us.
Unfortunately, even as Christ followers, we find ourselves, at times, contributing to the overall ‘sin count’ in our world. And this is where walking together in meaningful discipleship relationships is so critical. The journey isn’t so much a marathon as it is an ongoing obstacle course that we successfully navigate as we bear one another’s burdens. Each of us needs others in our lives who love us enough to bear our burdens through loving correction. Only when we walk together at this level of community can we be all that Jesus wants us to be as we seek to fulfill the Great Commission.
