In our fellowship of churches we have seen both the benefits and risks involved when we enter into discipling relationships. In recent years many have explored various methods of fulfilling the many “one another” scriptures through relational dynamics within the body of Christ. Many have searched for the right vernacular in an attempt to side-step the mistakes of our past. We may describe these one-another relationships with terms such as mentoring, life coaching, prayer partners, G3 (groups of three), accountability partners, etc. We have tried to restructure, re-brand, or even do away with all structure and rely on a more “organic” approach to forming mutually edifying relationships.

But what have been the results? Are we collectively becoming more healthy spiritually? Are we getting together and fulfilling the one-another scriptures? Have we stayed engaged in at least one or more relationships that provide that safe place to be real, honest, vulnerable, and teachable? Are the marriages within our congregations progressing in the right direction? Are we talking to each another about our kids, our parenting struggles, our purity, our quiet times, our careers, and our passions and dreams? Or have we regressed such that we’ve simply become a man or woman of “many companions?” If so, the scriptures warn that this is shaky ground. Read more…