This is the third in a series exploring why we should live intentionally in the body of Christ. Hint: It's not about us; it's about other people. Feel free to read Part 1 and Part 2 before diving into this post.

This is the second in a series exploring why you should live intentionally in the body of Christ. Hint: It's not about us; it's about other people. Feel free to read Part 1 before diving into this post, Part 2.

Infiltrating—or, being the change in church—teaches you how to love the unlovely. It drives you to not only study God’s Word, but to live out his commands. It helps you and other imbalanced believers gravitate toward Christlikeness. It shows you the great price Christ suffered for the sake of wandering souls. Most importantly, infiltrating ignites true Christian love into a flame not even a distracted world can ignore.

One of the most loving things Brittney ever did for me was confront me about my physical advances toward her. I still remember the words she said and the follow-up letter she wrote me. It hurt like crazy to see how terribly I’d gone against God, forced the love of my life into a difficult situation, and been too weak to show the same tough love my sweetheart had shown me. But some hurt is good. And this was very good hurt.

No matter where we gather as the people of God, we are to think about how we can, in all encouragement, help our brothers and sisters embrace the radical call of following Jesus. And not just once in a while, but “all the more” as his return draws nearer. This is infiltration.

One strand is easily broken. Two strands are better than one because if one breaks, the other is there to take on the weight. But a three-corded piece of rope? That’s strength.

If your church doesn’t desire God’s presence or want to radiate his glory, leave. If your church doesn’t care about the greatest commandments of love and the great commission to reach others, leave. If your church cares more about the building than the people, leave. But before you do, read John 8:2-11:

It’s been said that wolves attack the lone sheep. And while it isn’t pleasant to think of yourself or your other as a wolf, the reality is, we’re all capable. This is why it’s vital to invite others into your relationship. #Relationships #DatingLikeAirplanes

We were created out of community (the Trinity) and for community. We weren't meant to walk alone. Because when we do, storms come and destroy. But when we're in the community of the Church, we bear one another's burdens and come up strong.

You have alarms that ring every time you and your other are in danger of hurting one another physically or emotionally. The problem is, you might not recognize them as alarms until the damage has been done.