Why the Church Matters to Christians: Bible Verses about Relationships

There are a lot of issues in the church, including political upheaval, sexual and financial scandals, and disagreements over a variety of matters. With such things plaguing the church inside and outside, dismissing being a part of a local church can be tempting. Many may forgo regular attendance in favor of practicing their faith more privately. That can be okay for a season and may be part of your journey. However, Christ intended faith to be practiced within a community. Let’s look at some Bible verses about relationships to see how the benefits of being in a community of faith are different from just being in a social club.

Bible Verses about Relationships and the Church

Encouragement to live out your faith.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25, NI

In these Bible verses about relationships above, we see that the church is not the building, but the people who gather in communion and fellowship with one another. Christians share a belief that Jesus Christ has given them salvation, and that they are to live out their faith.

We are easily discouraged when we attempt this on our own. By being a part of a larger group not only are we more likely to live out our faith, but we can also do bigger things for each other and our communities. Individuals can only accomplish so much on their own. A group can do greater good together.

People who care when you struggling.

So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. – Acts 12:5, NIV

Discouraging seasons will come to all of us. There will be grief, pain, and hardship, and all of it can be made more endurable when we are surrounded by people who care for us. This can be practical and spiritual. Meals during seasons of sickness, people to lighten your burdens and other practical means of service may be available to you.

In addition to practical care, praying for each other is a means of both encouragement and kindness. Lifting each other in prayer makes us aware of the needs of others and reminds us of the bigger picture. We may not understand why God allows suffering, but we can trust in His care for us during all seasons.

A goal of unity in the Church.

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. – 1 Corinthians 1:10, NIV

If you look at the church today, you can see divisions. When you look at history you can see when and how many divisions occur. This may cause you to wonder about being united. You might be tempted to give up on the idea of unity altogether.

Look for where you can find unity and agreement. Do you agree with a church’s outreach program? That is a good place to start. Are you looking for a certain way of worship? You can find people who share similar interests and appreciate those with different tastes.

Learn to celebrate the unique and beautiful way God has made everyone. Unity is not sameness or perfect agreement.

Practicing peace in the Church.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. – James 1:19-20, NIV

Learning how to set aside one’s ego will go a long way to building unity in the church. When we want our way, we get in our way. Cultivate listening skills and learn how to see things from different points of view.

Peace is not about giving in to people but creating spaces where people feel safe to express their fears, doubts, and other struggles. Building unity and practicing peace takes time, patience, and commitment.

Outside perspective

If you’re looking for additional support beyond these Bible verse about relationships, we can help. When it’s difficult to get along, or you just feel uncertain about who you can trust, talking with a faith-based counselor at Thousand Oaks Christian Counseling can be of great value. Schedule an appointment today with one of the Christian counselors in Thousand Oaks, California.

Your counselor will offer support and direction as you try to navigate the ups and downs of relationships with other Christians. Relationships of all types will take time to develop and grow. Be patient with yourself and others and reach out for help when you need it.