by Rev Dr David Dubovich
When we hear the word “church‟, if we think only of a building, we miss the point. The
word does apply to a church building, but in reality the church is people. Actually, if you
take the people out of the building, it is no longer even a church building. As Paul
concluded his letter to the saints in Rome, he gave them a powerful reminder of the truth
about the community of believers. A careful reading of the chapter reveals:
- The church is people who are diverse (Romans 16 vv. 3–16). In this list we find
diversity in race (Jewish and Gentile), in rank (slaves and free) and gender (nine of the 27
are women). Paul evidently thought highly of them all! - The church is people who are united. Paul spoke of his “sisters” and “brothers” and
called them “beloved.” Then there are the fellow workers and fellow sufferers. Six times
he referred to meeting in houses. The essence of the church is its unity, since it is the one
and only community in the world in which Christ has broken down all the dividing walls. - The church should be a place of handshakes and hugs (v. 16). In Paul’s day, the holy
kiss was a visible and tangible gesture of greeting. It was more than a formality; it was an
expression of fellowship and of love for others.
There is diversity in the Body of Christ, but by Christ’s work Christ has brought us
together. That unity should be obvious and genuine. Church should be a place of
handshakes and hugs.
Do you struggle in your relationships with other believers? Consider what Paul did.
Paul commended the believers, recognized the differences but realized that we are one in
Christ. Recognize this truth and live it. Learn to love others in Christ.