How can we apply the concept of "facing each other" in Christian fellowship?

The Original Scene: Cherubim Facing Each Other

“ ‘The cherubim are to have their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat.’ ” (Exodus 25:20)

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Why This Matters for Us

• The mercy seat was the place of atonement—God meeting His people.

• Two heavenly beings positioned “facing each other” guarded and highlighted that meeting place.

• Their gaze fixed on the mercy seat reminds us that genuine fellowship centers on God’s gracious presence, not on ourselves.

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Principles We Draw

• Fellowship means orientation: we turn toward one another, not away (Romans 15:7).

• Mutual focus on Christ: while we face each other, our eyes remain on the mercy seat—Jesus, our atonement (Hebrews 9:11-12).

• Protective posture: the cherubim “overshadowed” the cover; believers safeguard the sacredness of the community (Ephesians 4:3).

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Practical Ways to “Face Each Other” Today

1. Intentional Presence

– Look people in the eye, put devices aside, and give undivided attention.

– “Let love be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.” (Romans 12:9)

2. Word-Centered Conversation

– Bring Scripture naturally into discussions.

– “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, teaching and admonishing one another.” (Colossians 3:16)

3. Swift Reconciliation

– Address offenses quickly; facing each other prevents lingering division.

– “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately.” (Matthew 18:15)

4. Mutual Encouragement

– Share testimonies of God’s mercy, just as both cherubim directed attention to the mercy seat.

– “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24)

5. Protective Accountability

– Pray for one another’s holiness; lovingly guard against sin’s intrusion.

– “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” (Galatians 6:1)

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Living It Out Together

• Make every gathering—whether over coffee or in corporate worship—a miniature “mercy seat,” where Christ’s grace is central and faces are turned toward one another.

• As we consistently practice this orientation, God’s presence is magnified, and the watching world sees a community shaped by the very design He gave in the Tabernacle.