Together in Christ: 'Stay Connected' — 2 Corinthians 13:13-14

Paul helped connect groups of new believers. He connected Jews and non-Jews, young and old, and people from different cities and provinces. He helped these varied groups maintain fellowship, deepen their relationships, and grow in respect for one another. He did it in person, through letters, and by participation in group decisions. Our verses today are a good reminder of Paul's commitment to connect and encourage other believers.

As Paul closed his letter to the Corinthians in our verses today, he brought greetings from Christians in Macedonia, where he was currently staying, ^[1] to those in Corinth. He wanted both groups to celebrate their shared fellowship, love, and grace. Paul then gave a blessing to the Corinthians. He reminded them that their life of grace, love, and fellowship centered on God's nature as Father, Son, and Spirit. God, Who lives in fellowship with Himself (as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), empowers our fellowship. Christians don't just connect with each other; more significantly, they connect with each other through God. When I read these closing verses, I ask myself a vital set of questions:

• Am I connecting with other believers?
• Am I helping to connect other believers with other people of faith?
• Am I using these connections to convey our shared grace, love, and fellowship that we have in being God's children, Jesus' disciples, and family in the Holy Spirit?

Connecting with other believers is crucial for those who are discouraged, struggling, tempted, or persecuted. ^[2] Connecting with other believers is vital for us, too, whatever our condition is! We should never neglect meeting with other believers to encourage each other. ^[3] Let's follow Paul's example and connect with and encourage other believers!