When we hear the word church, it’s common to have an image of a physical structure. From what we read in Scripture, however, we’re compelled to think “people” over “place,” “believers” instead of “buildings.” Indeed, the Greek word ekklesia (translated “church”) means “assembly,” and in most cases in the New Testament it refers to a gathering of believers in Jesus in a specific location.

God’s special relationship with and plans for the church are reflected in the words and word pictures used to describe it. “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). Peter’s language is reminiscent of the way God had spoken of His covenant people in the Old Testament (see Exodus 19:5–6). Furthermore, believers in Christ are welcomed into a family of people who are crowned with mercy and dubbed as “beloved” (v. 11 ESV).

What does this mean for how believers interact with each other? Those who are precious to God are to value and care for each other. Like other New Testament writers, Peter uses “one another” phrases to emphasize how we should relate to each other. First Peter 4:8–11 states that those who belong to the family of God should “love each other deeply” (v. 8), “offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (v. 9), and use their gifts to serve each other so that God is honored in everything (vv. 10–11).

Arthur Jackson, Our Daily Bread author

Our Daily Bread Ministries in Indonesia is supported by the freewill offering of individuals in Indonesia, who through their gifts enable us to continue to bring the life-changing wisdom of the Bible to many here. We are not funded by any church or organisation.

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