From time to time we are taking a look together at the “one another” commands in Bible. It’s been a little while, but we’re back at it this morning.
There are about 60 “one another” commands, given to Christians so we can know how to properly relate to each other in the church and so we can be built up, others can be built up, and our church can thrive in the love of God.
So far, we’ve been reminded to greet one another, encourage one another, sing to one another, pray for one another, honor one another, be kind and compassionate to one another, and to use our gifts to serve one another.
What’s great about all of these is that they’re straightforward. These are all practical things, each within reach – very doable – as we set our hearts on obeying what God has asked us to do.
Today’s command is just as practical and just as doable. Paul gives it to us in 1 Corinthians 11:
1 Corinthians 11:33 – So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.
In the moment, Paul was speaking to them about proper behavior at what was known as the “agape feast.” In Corinth, the Christians would gather together and before they took communion they would share a meal. People would bring food from home and the idea was that they would all share together one, big, family meal. Now, the church in Corinth was having some trouble with sharing – some of the wealthy members were just gorging themselves while the hungry members had nothing. So, Paul wanted to be sure they understood what was proper Christian conduct.
But as part of his instruction, Paul said, “wait for one another.” It means not seeing our gatherings as just about what we need, but that we’re gathered together as a family of Christians before the Lord.
When we wait for one another in common courtesy, it’s a way of us welcoming each other and joining together. It’s a way for us to show others and remind ourselves that they weren’t just sitting together in the same room, but that as Christians we should be concerned for the spiritual and physical well-being of those around us. We’re not just in the same location, we’re here together and as we wait for one another as we go into the cafe, as we walk through the courtyard, or wherever we might be, it helps us become a community that is better connected because we’re being more mindful of those who are with us. It helps us not overlook those who might be struggling, who might need something, who might not be sure exactly what to do in a given moment. Waiting for one another as Paul depicts it here reminds us that we’re siblings at the family table, not just consumers in line at Chipotle. So, today, let’s see if we can find ways to wait for one another and be built up together as God continues to grow His fruit in us.