The Early Church: Growth(2) One Another: Romans 12:10 I. Introduction. A. In order for the church to grow, there must be the proper respect, love, and interest in one another. B. The expression "one another" appears 54 times in KJV(most in NT). 1. Majority appears in Romans. 2. Emphasized a relationship existing between Christians. C. If we do not care for one another, we will not care for others. 1. Growth starts with how we treat, respect, and relate to one another. 2. The world notices this, as well--can influence toward truth or away from truth. D. The strongest ties that exist among God's people are outlined in the word of God. II. Body. A. The starting place in our relations to other Christians is LOVE ONE ANOTHER! 1. So commanded(can command love): Romans 13:8; so taught: I Thessalonians 4:9. 2. Peter believed it: I Peter 1:22(comment on fervently: "stretched"(Vine)). 3. John emphasized: expression appears five times in I & II John. 4. Never forget: John 3:16. 5. If I do not love the brethren, how can I love the Lord? 6. This powerful emotion motivates our spiritual growth, the growth of brethren, and the growth of the kingdom. B. When disciples love one another, certain behaviors become evident. 1. Forbearance: Ephesians 4:2. a. Define: "To hold up"..."endure"..."bear with"(Vine). b. Repeated: Colossians 3:13. 2. Admonish when needed: Romans 15:14. a. Purpose: I Thessalonians 5:11. b. Needed more than one service a week: Hebrews 3:13. c. Note: Hebrews 10:24-25. d. Even: Colossians 3:16. 3. Comfort others: I Thessalonians 4:18. 4. Proper respect is shown to others: Romans 12:10. C. Learning to receive one another promotes growth in the individual: Romans 15:7. 1. Christ died for all including brethren that we may not like. 2. We must be careful in this realm: Romans 14:13. 3. Salute(greet) brethren: Romans 16:16; I Corinthians 16:20. a. Be friendly! among ourselves! b. How can I salute if I don't talk? c. To all: not just a few! 4. Establishing a proper and positive relationship will encourage: Galatians 6:2. a. It is easier when you have help. b. Never so isolate that no one notices your needs. c. Do not reject those who desire to help you when you have a heavy burden. D. Practicing the "one another" relationships, we will avoid: Galatians 5:26. 1. Define vainglorious: Desiring empty glory. 2. Explain envying: Feeling of displeasure at the success of others. a. No basis if all are Christians. b. All have equal access to righteousness. III. Conclusion. A. Our desire and aim should be to grow with one another. B. Only a strong and active congregation can grow spiritually and numerically. C. It is up to each of us! -jy