Someone once said that “the sum is greater than its parts.” That is true of a number of things, especially of casseroles. You could eat each ingredient of your favorite casserole, but you don’t experience the full effect until they are combined and consumed together.
The same can be said of intentional relationships in the Church. While each church may emphasize specific values or ministries, the church as a whole is designed to function as one body made up of many members, each playing a vital role (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). One of the most crucial things that must be cultivated and practiced in the church is authentic, intentional relationships (Romans 12:10). As followers of Christ, we are not meant to go through life alone (Hebrews 10:24-25). We are called to be a part of intentional relationships with others who desire to follow Christ (John 13:34-35).
In intentional relationships, there are four parts that we must consider in order for them to be effective in loving God and loving others:
Authentic Humility (Romans 12:4)
As we strive to become more like Christ for the glory of God and the advancement of the gospel, we should expect to face opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). While we long to serve others, obstacles will arise. God’s Word reminds us not to be surprised when trials come our way (1 Peter 4:12). These barriers may come from situations, people, or the enemy himself, all seeking to hinder the proclamation of the gospel. Yet more often than not, we find that our greatest obstacle is ourselves—our own sin and selfishness that resist the work of the gospel in our hearts and through our lives (Romans 7:18-19).
To confront this, we must be willing to examine ourselves honestly and view our hearts as God sees them through His Word (2 Corinthians 13:5). We must recognize our natural inclination toward selfishness and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it to us through prayer and Scripture (Psalm 139:23-24). Then, by His strength, we are empowered to put our sin to death and deny ourselves daily (Romans 8:13).
It is in this posture of surrender and humility that we are able to engage in relationships with others in a way that reflects the love of Christ and brings glory to God.
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus[.]”
Gospel Identity (Romans 12:4-5)
Our desire for intentional relationships is deeply rooted in the gospel. We have hope and a new identity because of Jesus’s finished work on the cross and His resurrection (Romans 5:1–2). Through faith in Him, we now belong to God; we confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His saving power (Romans 10:9).
When Jesus walked the earth, He had one physical body. Now, on this side of the cross and the resurrection, He is represented by a spiritual body. In Christ, there is one body: the Church. Scripture tells us that there is one body and one Spirit, just as we were called to one hope in Christ (Ephesians 4:4–5). As His body, we are set apart to make His name known and live out His Kingdom purposes (1 Peter 2:9).
So, what does that mean for us? It means that, as members of the body of Christ, we are called to care deeply for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25–27). Whether we’re participating in a Small Group, serving in Kids or Student Ministry, or stepping out on mission, we are actively declaring with our lives that we belong to Jesus—and that we are committed to His people.
Spiritual Ability (Romans 12:6-8)
Though we share one gospel identity as the body of Christ, God has given each of us different gifts. Just as the human body has many parts with unique functions, so does the Church. Scripture reminds us that there are varieties of gifts— but the same Spirit who empowers them all (1 Corinthians 12:4–6). Whether it’s teaching, preaching, serving, or other forms of ministry, these gifts are given by the Holy Spirit to build up the Church. They help the body function in unity, grow in maturity, and move forward according to God’s Word and the power of His Spirit (Romans 12:4–8). By the same Spirit who gives the gifts, we are also spiritually equipped and empowered to use them for God’s glory and the good of His people (2 Peter 1:3).
Passionate Activity (Romans 12:9-13)
Finally, intentional relationships require passionate, Spirit-led action— or zeal (Romans 12:11). God has graciously given each of us spiritual gifts through the Holy Spirit for the purpose of building up the body of Christ so it functions as it should (1 Corinthians 12:4–7). But in using these gifts, our attitudes matter. If God gives generously and joyfully, we should reflect that same posture. Our gifts are most effective when they are offered with joy, eagerness, and a willing heart— ready to love the Lord, love others, and serve faithfully (1 Peter 4:10–11).
Intentional relationships are the heartbeat of a thriving church, where humility, identity, gifts, and passion come together to reflect Christ’s love. As we commit to these principles, we not only grow closer to God but also build a community that truly embodies His Kingdom on earth.
