Building Relationships

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” – Philippians 2:5-7. 

It’s human nature to connect and hang out with like-minded people, isn’t it? As a result, all too often in our Christian lives, we find ourselves connecting and hanging out only with other Christians. It’s our comfortable place. We can pray together, support each other and talk about things on a personal level. Jesus did that but He also was constantly surrounded and connecting with people who didn’t believe in Him.  

What do we mean by “connecting”?  Connecting with others means more than a superficial relationship. It’s more than just saying “hi” to your neighbor when you pull out your trash cans or walk to your mailbox. It’s more than just chatting for a few seconds with other parents at your child’s soccer game. Connecting means inviting them into your home, having dinner with them, making a deliberate effort to get to know them and connect on a more personal level, asking them questions about how they are doing, listening to their answers, and interacting with them. Over time you will get to know them more deeply. 

When was the last time you had dinner with some non-Christians that you know? Or go for an outing with them? Even went away with them camping or on a holiday? For many of us, it happens rarely if at all. So when you next see a neighbor or friend who you know doesn’t know the Lord, take a moment to ask the Lord for guidance and make a point of beginning to draw that person into your life. Help them see the difference that Jesus has made to you. Our love for God is measured by our everyday fellowship with others and the love it displays.  

Connecting with people in this way convinces you to get involved in their lives as a witness, because you feel their need for Jesus so much more deeply. That’s exactly what happened when Jesus connected with people. The Bible says, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” (Matthew 9:36-38). Jesus was all about connecting with those far from God.

Paul says, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…” Christ gave up His glory in heaven and humbled himself to become a human being. As a result, we have a Savior who“understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do…” (Hebrews 4:15).  Our goal is to be like Jesus in connecting with others. 

Discussion Questions

1. When you think of connecting with others what is the first thing that comes to mind?   
2. What can we do this week to be more intentional in pursuing relationships and scheduling time with unbelievers?