One-Anothering

(allelon, “one another”)

is a reciprocal pronoun found one-hundred times in the Greek New Testament.  It is usually translated “one another” or “each other” and used as a direct object like in John 13:34,

A new command I give you: Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

It is word that describes a relationship which, as in this case, is mutual and reciprocal.  We are commanded to reciprocally love one another as Jesus’ disciples.

While love is the overarching characteristic of our relationship with our fellow Christians, this mutuality is expressed in many different forms which are born out by the many occurrences in the NT.

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:10); Submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21, 1 Peter 5:5); Consider others better than yourselves (Philippians 2:3); Look to the interests of one another (Philippians 2:4); Clothe yourselves with humility towards one another (1 Peter 5:5); Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16); etc.

This mutuality is the subject of my latest series of messages.  I’m using the term one-anothering to describe the behavior we are to exhibit in our relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

I choose these lessons, at this time, because of the disconnection most of us have experienced because of our inability to assemble and fellowship, as we were accustomed, due to the pandemic.  Because of the wonders of technology (streaming, podcasts, Zoom, etc.), there is a tendency to think we can experience the fullness of Christian life without a personal connection with the rest of the body.  While these separations were necessary for a time, God never intended his church to exist as isolated individuals.  We need to interact with each other for encouragement, strength, and motivation.

Sunday, I’ll be sharing several one-anothering behaviors under these three categories; we are to encourage, strengthen, and motivate one-another as disciples of the Lord, Jesus Christ.  Please join us.

Have a Great week!  Joey