READ: Rom. 15:7–13: Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God. … Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
In order to glorify with one mouth the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we must receive one another in the church, even when there are differences of insight and customs in subordinate matters. This applies to the federation of churches, to foreign sister church relations, but certainly also to the local congregation.
In receiving one another it is good to consider what we confess concerning the communion of saints: that believers, all together and each individually as members, have fellowship with the Lord Christ and share in all His treasures and gifts; and that each is obligated to use his gifts willingly and with joy for the benefit and salvation of the other members.
Thus we use the gifts received from Christ also for the benefit and salvation of our brothers and sisters. For that, it is first necessary that you receive one another as brothers and sisters. See also that you yourself have been received by Christ as a wonder of grace. Then see that Christ thereby has the purpose that together as brothers and sisters we glorify God the Lord.
Your own salvation is not the ultimate goal as a member of Christ’s church; the ultimate goal is the praise and glorification of the Triune God. That already begins on earth, but is perfect after the return of Christ.
Paul shows that this goal—the glorification of God—concerns both Jews brought to faith and Gentiles who may share in the promises of Abraham. He quotes from the Old Testament texts which foretell that Christ gathers His one church from Jews and Gentiles in common joy and peace to the honor of God.
Paul concludes this section with a prayer that God will fill them with all joy and peace in believing, through the power of the Spirit.
Are we sufficiently involved with one another in the church?
Singing: Ps. 122:1