Topical Encyclopedia The concept of living in mutual forbearance within the family of saints is deeply rooted in the teachings of the New Testament. This principle emphasizes patience, understanding, and love among believers, reflecting the unity and harmony that should characterize the body of Christ.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently addresses the need for mutual forbearance among Christians. In Ephesians 4:2-3 , he exhorts believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This passage highlights the virtues necessary for maintaining harmony within the Christian community, underscoring the importance of patience and love. Similarly, in Colossians 3:12-13 , Paul instructs the Colossian church: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Here, the call to forbearance is linked with forgiveness, suggesting that enduring relationships within the family of saints require a readiness to forgive, mirroring the forgiveness believers have received from Christ. Theological Implications Theologically, mutual forbearance is an expression of the love that binds the Christian community together. It is a reflection of the divine love that God has shown to humanity through Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 , often referred to as the "Love Chapter," Paul describes love as patient and kind, not easily angered, and keeping no record of wrongs. This description serves as a model for how believers are to interact with one another, emphasizing that love is the foundation of mutual forbearance. Practical Application In practical terms, living in mutual forbearance involves a commitment to understanding and valuing the differences among believers. It requires an attitude of humility, recognizing that each member of the body of Christ has unique gifts and perspectives. Romans 14:1 advises, "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions." This acceptance is crucial for fostering an environment where believers can grow together in faith. Moreover, mutual forbearance calls for active peacemaking. In Matthew 5:9 , Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Peacemaking involves resolving conflicts with grace and seeking reconciliation, thereby strengthening the bonds within the family of saints. Challenges and Encouragement While the call to live in mutual forbearance is clear, it is not without challenges. Human nature, with its tendencies toward pride and self-interest, can hinder the practice of patience and forgiveness. However, believers are encouraged by the promise of the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live out these virtues. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, including love, patience, and self-control, as evidence of the Spirit's work in the life of a believer. In summary, the family of saints is called to live in mutual forbearance, reflecting the love and unity that are central to the Christian faith. Through humility, patience, and forgiveness, believers can maintain the harmony that glorifies God and strengthens the body of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 50:17-21So shall you say to Joseph, Forgive, I pray you now, the trespass of your brothers, and their sin; for they did to you evil: and now, we pray you, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of your father. And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 18:21,22 Library I Saw no Temple There Of the Church Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. The Epistles of Paul. The Savoy Declaration of the Congregational Churches. AD 1658. Sunday after Ascension Day An Exhortation to Peace and Unity Letter ix. Meditation. The Great Awakening. Resources Are family devotions important? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.org Should there be hierarchy in the family? | GotQuestions.org Family: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Family of Saints: Be Duly Regulated Family of Saints: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Family of Saints: Live in Mutual Forbearance Family of Saints: Live in Unity Family of Saints: Punishment of Irreligious Family of Saints: Rejoice Together Before God Family of Saints: should be Taught God's Word Family of Saints: Warned Against Departing from God Family of Saints: Worship God Together Family: Good: Jailor of Philippi Family: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Family: Infelicity in David and Michal Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds Family: Infelicity in Moses and Zipporah Family: Infelicity In of Abraham, on Account of Hagar Family: Infelicity In of Isaac, on Account of the Disagreement Between Jacob and Esau Family: Infelicity In of Jacob, the Bigamic Jealousy Between Leah and Rachel Family: Persian, Domestic Customs Related Terms |
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