The scripture states in Colossians 2:9-10 that believers in Christ have been given all the fullness they need. In our spiritual relationship with God, individually we have everything we need in Christ and in the Holy Spirit. The companion truth to Christ’s sufficiency for each person is this: we need one another in the church. Jesus did not call his disciples to be individual spiritual nomads. He called them to follow him in community. God has designed the church so that each person needs others to walk alongside him or her. We gain wisdom and insight from one another. We learn by the example of others, younger and older than ourselves. We give encouragement and help to one another. We are called to love one another, especially in light of our differences and personal convictions. In fact, when we choose to love one another in spite of our differences, we actually learn how to be like Jesus. A spirit of humility and our common need for grace–which can only be filled through the person and work of Jesus Christ–is what creates unity in the church.

“so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” Romans 12:5 ESV