One Anothering: The Foundation of Biblical Community
One anothering is not just a biblical suggestion—it’s a command that defines the life of the Church. In a world where loneliness is a public health crisis, the call to live in deep, mutual relationship with one another has never been more urgent. The New Testament contains 59 one another commands, urging believers to love, serve, encourage, and support each other in authentic Christian community.
The Crisis of Loneliness
In May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared loneliness a public health crisis. Studies show that social isolation is as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes per day and even more dangerous than obesity. Loneliness increases the risk of early death, heart disease, stroke, weakened immune function, mental health struggles, and even dementia.
God knew this truth long before modern research confirmed it. In Genesis, He declared, “It is not good for man to be alone.” The Church has an incredible opportunity to combat loneliness by practicing biblical one anothering—offering people a place to belong, grow, and thrive in community.
What Is One Anothering?
The phrase “one another” comes from a single Greek word meaning mutual action and shared responsibility. In the New Testament, it is never optional; it is an expectation for every believer.
Even outside of scripture, Greek writers used this word to describe warriors fighting together, citizens supporting one another, and the relational duties of a just society. In every context, one anothering implies deep connection and shared responsibility.
The Church is called to be a family—living life with one another in a way that reflects the love of Christ.
The Commands of One Anothering
1. Love & Unity in the Church
- Love one another (John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7)
- Be at peace with one another (Mark 9:50)
- Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16)
- Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2)
2. Humility & Service
- Wash one another’s feet (John 13:14)
- Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:10)
- Serve one another (Galatians 5:13)
- Submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)
3. Encouragement & Accountability
- Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- Build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- Spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24)
- Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)
4. Right Attitude Toward Others
- Do not judge one another (Romans 14:13)
- Do not grumble against one another (James 5:9)
- Do not lie to one another (Colossians 3:9)
5. Mutual Edification
- Teach one another (Colossians 3:16)
- Speak to one another with psalms and hymns (Ephesians 5:19)
- Instruct one another (Romans 15:14)
6. Forgiveness & Reconciliation
- Forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32)
7. Carrying Burdens & Helping One Another
- Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)
- Be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32)
Living Out One Anothering in the Church
Imagine a church that truly lived out these one another commands—a community where people love each other like family, serve selflessly, and encourage one another daily. This is the biblical standard for the Church, not just a good idea but a direct command from Jesus.
As believers, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly practicing one anothering, or have we settled for a passive Sunday morning experience? The early Church thrived because they devoted themselves to these commands, creating a culture where no one was left isolated or in need.
The Cost of Neglecting One Anothering
Scripture warns us about the consequences of failing to live in unity. In 1 Corinthians, Paul describes how divisions in the church led to sickness and even death among believers. Could it be that some of our struggles—spiritual attacks, oppression, or even physical ailments—are connected to our failure to obey Jesus’ call to one anothering?
The fear of the Lord should lead us to action, not guilt. 1 John 2:3-6 reminds us that if we truly know Jesus, we will obey His commands. And His command is clear: we must love one another as He has loved us.
A Call to Action: Will You Commit to One Anothering?
One anothering is more than a list of verses—it’s a radical way of life that transforms individuals and churches. God is looking for a people who will commit to genuine, biblical community. Will we be that people? Will we love, serve, and build each other up in a way that changes lives and glorifies God?
Let’s move beyond church attendance and embrace the call to be the family of God. Let’s be a church that embodies one anothering—where no one stands alone, and everyone experiences the love of Christ through deep, authentic relationships.
Are you ready to commit to one anothering in your church? What steps can you take this week to love, serve, and encourage those around you? Let’s start today.