"...One Another..."

Printed below are the notes from the teaching time in our New Horizons adult Bible fellowship yesterday:

Living Out the “One Another” Principles of True Christianity
Discussion question for New Horizons for 8/30/09 “Mutual Encouragement….”

1. What, in your own words, are the principles of ‘mutuality’ and ‘reciprocity’ all about when it comes to interacting as Christians? (see 2 Cor. 8:13-15, and compare Rom. 1:11-12)

2. What are areas of your life where you have ‘plenty’? And in what areas could it be said that you have been and/or still are 'in need'? (To ask these questions another way: in what areas are you more fortunate/advantaged?....and in what areas are you less fortunate/disadvantaged?)

3. In what areas of life does the Bible give us examples of mutuality/reciprocity?

-- Rom. 1:11-12 _________________________________

-- 2 Cor. 1:3-5 ____________________________________

-- 2 Cor. 8:13-15 _________________________________
(see also Acts 2:25 and4:32-35)

-- 1 Cor. 12:4-7 ____________________________________


4. What gives us the confidence and incentive not to wait for others to ‘go first’ when it comes to seeking to be a blessing/help to others? (2 Cor. 9:10-11; Luke 6:38; Luke 14:14; Matt.20:28; Matt.25:31-46; 2 Cor.9:12-15; 1 Jn.3:16-18)

5. If, at first, these principles of mutuality/reciprocity seem demanding and even a little scary, what are some first steps/small steps that you could take this week to be involved, applying these principles, in the lives of Christian friends you know? Or what are some ways you’re already applying these “one another” principles?