Relationship – Part 1&2 – Our relationship with the Lord

How is our relationship with the Lord?

Any meaningful relationship has to be two sided. Brother Edward looks at our relationship with the Lord and challenges us to a deeper level of intimacy in our walk with the Lord.

‌Brother Edward challenges the congregation to move beyond “one-sided” religious duty. He identifies that many perform Christian duties—church attendance, Bible reading, and rote prayer—out of habit, fear of punishment, or a desire to ease a guilty conscience, yet lack actual intimacy with God.

The sermon centers on 1 John 1:1-4, emphasizing the tangible nature of the Word of Life—that which was heard, seen, and touched. Brother Edward highlights that the primary purpose of this revelation is fellowship (koinonia): a shared life with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, intended to make the believer’s joy complete.

John 10:14: The reciprocal relationship where the sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice and are known by Him.

John 15:5: The necessity of abiding in Christ to bear fruit, emphasizing a mutual indwelling (“Remain in me, and I will remain in you”).

Revelation 3:20: The image of Christ knocking at the door, seeking a mutual meal (supper) with the individual.

Song of Songs 6:3: The declaration of mutual belonging: “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.”

Action Points:

Audit the Relationship: Ask, “Is my fellowship two-way?” True fellowship requires both speaking and listening, giving and receiving.

Reject Rote Ritual: Stop reciting prayers “by heart” if they lack emotional presence or understanding. The preacher suggests that even a short grace before meals is better left unsaid if it does not involve a moment of genuine connection.

Remove Barriers: Identify the “walls” or “distances” (distractions or lack of time) that prevent hearing God’s voice.

Commit to Proximity: Dedicate specific time to remain in God’s presence, moving from “demanding” things in prayer to simply “being” with Him.