Let's discuss how in the church we can help each other not to be bound by sin. Many times, we understand truth in our mind, but it hasn’t developed in our relationships with others. We can have knowledge but still be emotionally immature. This lack of maturity can make us more prone to allowing sin to bind us.

Colossians 3:12-17 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

 For a plant to grow it requires good soil that hasn’t been depleted. For a Christian to continue to overcome sin, he/she must be in an environment that is like good soil. We see such an environment in Colossians 3. What we want to see in our church and its ministries is an environment for Christian growth.

 For the truths of the Word of God to take root in our lives, it is especially important that we have a loving attachment to God and others. Since we are social beings, our attachment to others cannot be ignored. We must have good relationships with others to be emotionally mature. Strong, healthy relationships help us to not be controlled by our emotions and addictions.

 In good relationships there is both teaching and admonishing going on between both parties. But the teaching and admonishing takes place in a peaceful, loving, joyful environment. Weeds are not allowed to grow. At the same time, no one feels stupid, worthless, ugly, etc. We don’t make people feel like hopeless losers.

·        In the above verses, what are some fruits of the spirit necessary for our church community to functions as God wants it to?

·        Which is the glue that bonds us?

·        Do you see the group dynamic? These verses are not to an individual.

·        What are some activities that go on in the church?

·        Can you see that this church dynamic affects our ‘word’ and ‘deed’?

What can you do to develop healthy relationships with others in the church that will be a blessing to others as well as to yourself and your family?