Belief Strengthens Bond
10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you greetings, as does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and so does Jesus who is called Justus. These alone of the circumcised are my coworkers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.
Colossians 4:10-11 (CSB)
The apostle Paul cites Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus (Justus) as examples of the importance of supportive and encouraging relationships. He shared a close bond with these men in serving the Lord. During Paul's imprisonment, they stood with him by providing encouragement and continuing the Lord's work. Reflecting on their partnership, we can recognize the vital bonds needed for our own collaborations.
The Bond of Support. Paul faced a challenging period when he was imprisoned, but these men rallied around him, providing ongoing support for his ministry. Sometimes, they would deliver Paul’s letters to different congregations so they could hear directly from him. Other times, they offered their support as they shared the hardship with him. When we work together, we should foster a bond of support that becomes clear through our shared journey.
The Bond of Encouragement. Paul valued these men as sources of support in his life. Encouragement involves supporting and motivating others during times of difficulty and hardship. It helps people keep moving forward even when everything seems to have stopped. Encouragement acts as a catalyst for overcoming fears and staying faithful, despite moments of pain, hurt, or stress. In our partnership in Christ, we offer this encouragement to each other.
The Bond of Love. These men did not abandon the apostle Paul because of their deep love for him. Their love was not based on Paul’s activities or the fact that he “deserved” love. Instead, their profound, familial love stemmed from their love for the Lord. The love they found in Christ was the foundation of their unity. They loved one another following the example set by Jesus through His love. When we love like Jesus, love becomes a bond that keeps us connected and supports our journey together.
The Bond of Mission. These men were united by a single purpose. Instead of forging their own paths, they collaborated to fulfill God's mission. When believers share a common goal, they become receptive to being used by God as His instruments to reap a spiritual harvest. This shared purpose fosters cohesion and unity, eliminating the risk of division caused by pursuing different good works without a unifying mission.
QUESTIONS
How would you define the bond that the community of faith must strive to live out?
Where is the only true source of the bond between believers?
