In what ways can we live out being "brought near" in our communities? The Gift of Nearness “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” (Ephesians 2:13) • Our distance was real—spiritual alienation because of sin (Isaiah 59:2). • Christ’s shed blood literally bridged that gap, reconciling us to the Father (Colossians 1:19-20). • Nearness to God inevitably overflows into nearness to one another (Ephesians 2:14-16). Why Near Becomes Neighborly The same cross that draws us to God dismantles the walls that separate people. Vertical reconciliation produces horizontal reconciliation: • One new people (Ephesians 2:15) • Shared citizenship (Ephesians 2:19) • A dwelling for God’s Spirit (Ephesians 2:22) Practical Ways to Live Out Nearness in Our Communities 1. Pursue peacemaking and quick reconciliation • “Be kind and tender-hearted… forgiving one another” (Ephesians 4:32). • Refuse gossip; initiate hard conversations early (Matthew 5:23-24). 2. Practice inclusive hospitality • “Welcome one another, just as Christ also welcomed you” (Romans 15:7). • Open homes and schedules to believers and unbelievers alike. 3. Meet tangible needs • “Let us do good to everyone, and especially to those of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10). • Food drives, childcare relief, financial counseling, job networking. 4. Intercede for neighbors and leaders • “I urge… that petitions, prayers, intercessions… be made for all people” (1 Timothy 2:1). • Walk the neighborhood and pray street by street. 5. Speak the gospel gently and clearly • “Always be prepared to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Share testimonies of how Christ brought you near. 6. Worship across generations and cultures • “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony” (Psalm 133:1). • Blend musical styles, share preaching responsibilities, celebrate ethnic diversity. 7. Extend radical forgiveness • “Bear with one another and forgive any complaint” (Colossians 3:13). • Remember the debt Christ canceled for you (Matthew 18:21-35). 8. Advocate for justice with mercy • “Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly” (Micah 6:8). • Stand with the marginalized—unborn, elderly, refugees, trafficked. 9. Disciple intentionally • “What you have heard… entrust to faithful men” (2 Timothy 2:2). • One-on-one Bible reading, small groups, mentoring teens. 10. Celebrate unity continually • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3-6). • Testify publicly when reconciliations occur, sing songs of togetherness. Scripture’s Unified Chorus • Hebrews 10:19-25—draw near, then stir one another to love and good works. • 2 Corinthians 5:17-20—new creation people become ambassadors of reconciliation. • John 13:34-35—love one another so the world will know. • 1 John 4:11-12—God’s love is perfected as we love visibly. • Romans 12:9-18—genuine love, shared resources, harmonious living. When Nearness Shapes a Neighborhood • Witness shines: outsiders “glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). • Peace multiplies: conflicts diminish, cooperation grows (Philippians 4:2-7). • Hope anchors: visible grace proves the gospel’s power (Titus 2:10-14). Jesus brought us near. Let’s walk across every street, aisle, and cultural divide, embodying that nearness until our communities can’t miss the Savior who made it possible. |
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