The Effects of Christian Association

Paul wrote that, "evil company corrupts good habits" (I Corinthians 15:33). In almost every instance, this verse is used to point out the dangers of associating with those in the world who, if we're not careful, will cause us to stray from the path of righteousness. This is very true - the more time we spend with those who use bad language, the more likely we are to join them. The more time we spend with people who don't pray, study, or focus on spiritual things, the more likely we are.

It is also important to notice an equally important aspect of this verse. If evil company corrupts our good habits, doesn't it stand to reason that good company will aid us in breaking bad habits and drawing us closer to God? The effects of Christian association are many and need never be undervalued. As we continue our lives in service to God, let us remember daily the incredible value derived from our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Our spiritual siblings edify us. Paul told the Romans to "pursue things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another" (Romans 14:19). Paul said his purpose was to build up other Christians through edification (II Corinthians 13:10). Let's face it - there are many things that can break us down and discourage us in our efforts to please God. To have brothers and sisters who work to edify us is not only helpful, it's downright necessary!

In the Old Testament, David tells his friend Jonathan that their association could be dangerous to him. Jonathan's response was both simple and profound: "Whatever you yourself desire, I will do it for you" (I Samuel 20:4). The association that David had with this quality friend edified the future king of Israel. We all need a Jonathan who will build us up as well. Christian associations will help us to be built up and then to build up others in turn.

Our Christian associations encourage us. When Paul wrote to Timothy, he said that his role was to, "convince, rebuke, [and] exhort" in preaching the gospel (II Timothy 4:2). Exhortation is the action of urging others forward and persuading others to, "keep on keeping on." This same apostle worked diligently and sacrificed greatly so that he could continue "exhorting" the disciples " to continue in the faith" (Acts 14:22). The greatest encouragement we can receive will not come from those in the world. Instead, our time spent with other Christians will be the greatest opportunity for us to hear others cheering us on, telling encouraging us to never give up.

Finally, our Christian associations teach us. Throughout our spiritual lives, we will need to know more and more about God, His plan, and His love for us. By spending time with other Christians who have learned about God, we can benefit from what they know. By seeing the examples of our brothers and sisters in Christ, we can know what we are to be (II Corinthians 3:2). Consequently, the more time we spend associating with our brethren, the more we'll learn and then be able to teach to others.

We're thankful to God for His love and plan in giving us a spiritual family that, when we focus on it and surround ourselves with its members, edifies us, encourages us, and teaches us as we continually our lives in faithful service to Him.