The Myth of the Lone Ranger | Evangelism.net

The Myth of the Lone Ranger | Evangelism.net

EBRUARY 7, 2011 | WRITTEN BY AJ RINALDI

Share 0 comments

There’s a romantic notion in Westerns and Action movies about the loner. A hero who acts alone and never needs any help. However, there always comes a point in any story where the hero suddenly finds himself in a situation of dire circumstances and a welcome ally appears to help save the day. In a moment of humble revelation, he realizes that no man can function effectively by himself.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the Christian life. A quick read of Romans 12:3-5, 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, and Hebrews 10:24-26 reveals at least three things in consideration of Christian Fellowship.

1. In humility, admit the need.

Having a specific function within the body of Christ, we must consider our position as one among many (Romans 12:3-5). It is a mark of humility for us to admit to ourselves and others that it is impossible to accomplish alone what God calls us to do as His people. It is an act of humility to function that way.

2. A group without individuals isn’t a group at all.

In other words, you matter. Your unique gifts and talents, how you contribute to the effort of the whole (in this case of course- the Body of Christ) will determine the effectiveness of the group itself. First Corinthians 12:4-6 (NKJV) says,

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.

In other words the same God who works “all things in all persons” does so in such a unique way that the overall effect is more powerful than the sum of the parts.

3. Encouragement is interactive.

Living the Christian life is hard enough as it is. Trying to make it through every day with temptations and discouragement is impossible without other believers with whom we can share our struggles. The significance of having someone to lean on who shares the same faith—and even deeper yet, the same mission focus in life, cannot be overstated. As Hebrews 10:24-26 declares, it really is getting harder and harder as time goes on. We are living in a world now that is increasingly becoming more hostile toward Christianity. We don’t need each other to keep the gospel message relevant, but we do need each other to keep ourselves authentic.