Serving Like Christ: What It Means to Bear Each Other’s Burdens

by A Mac

While Christians have died to the law in Christ and are no longer bound by its requirements (Romans 7:4–6), the Scriptures of the "former days" remain invaluable. Paul emphasizes in Romans 15:4:

"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

This powerful statement reveals that the entire Bible, including the Old Testament, continues to serve as a source of guidance, encouragement, and hope for believers in every generation. Though we are no longer under the law, the principles, promises, and revelations of God's character found in those Scriptures teach us how to live faithfully. They help us endure trials, reminding us of God’s unchanging faithfulness and His sovereign purposes throughout history.

The Scriptures are not relics of a bygone era; they are living and active, relevant for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). For example, the accounts of the patriarchs, the exodus, the psalms, and the prophets all point to the nature of God, the unfolding of His redemptive plan, and the hope we have in Christ. Through them, we are encouraged to trust in God's promises and to endure in faith, even amid suffering.

Living Selflessly as Christ Did

As Christians, we are not only called to find hope and instruction in the Scriptures but also to model our lives after Christ. Paul’s exhortation in Romans 15:1–3 challenges us to live selflessly:

"We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, 'The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.'"

This does not mean Christians should engage in shallow people-pleasing, where we seek human approval at the expense of truth or righteousness. Instead, it calls us to a Christ-like humility and a commitment to build others up for their good. This is a reflection of God’s love at work within us. Pleasing others in this way involves:

  1. Bearing One Another’s Weaknesses
    Those who are spiritually strong have a responsibility to help the weak. This could mean patiently supporting someone struggling in their faith, offering guidance, or simply being present in their time of need. Bearing with one another reflects Christ's own sacrificial love.

  2. Building Up, Not Tearing Down
    Pleasing others involves encouraging them and strengthening their faith, not simply doing what makes them happy. It’s about pointing them toward God and helping them grow spiritually.

  3. Sacrificing Personal Comfort
    Christ Himself is the ultimate example. He came not to seek His own comfort or satisfaction but to serve others and fulfill the will of His Father. By enduring reproach and suffering, He showed us how to live sacrificially for the sake of others.

The Balance of Pleasing Others and Pleasing God

It’s important to note that while we are called to prioritize others over ourselves, our ultimate aim is to glorify God. Pleasing others should never lead us to compromise on biblical truth or neglect our personal walk with God. Paul himself said:

"For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10).

This balance is crucial. We serve others as a reflection of Christ’s love, but our loyalty remains with God. Pleasing others is a means to build them up, but it must always align with God’s purposes and truth.

Practical Application

How can Christians live out these principles in today’s world?

  1. Encouraging Others with Scripture
    Share biblical truths with others who are struggling. Use the Scriptures to remind them of God’s faithfulness, His promises, and the hope we have in Christ. For instance, pointing someone to the Psalms during their time of grief can bring deep comfort and encouragement.

  2. Living Selflessly in Community
    In your family, church, or workplace, look for ways to serve others. This could mean lending a helping hand, listening to someone in need, or offering wise counsel without seeking anything in return.

  3. Sacrificial Giving
    Just as Christ sacrificed for us, consider how you can give of your time, resources, or talents to bless others. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or financially supporting someone in need, these actions mirror Christ’s love.

  4. Promoting Unity in the Church
    In disagreements or conflicts, prioritize the good of the community over personal preferences. Seek to build unity and peace, reflecting Christ’s humility.

  5. Being a Witness of Hope
    In a world filled with despair, demonstrate the hope that comes from trusting in God. Share your testimony, live with joy, and show others that endurance through suffering is possible because of the encouragement found in Christ.

In Summary

Christians are called to a life that reflects the selflessness of Christ and the eternal truths of Scripture. While we are no longer bound by the law, the Scriptures of the "former days" continue to teach, encourage, and give us hope. They guide us in living lives that glorify God and edify others.

By choosing to bear one another's burdens, to prioritize others over ourselves, and to ground our lives in the enduring truth of God’s Word, we live as Christ did. In doing so, we become a light to the world, spreading the love, hope, and joy that comes from knowing Him.

 

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