Our study in Romans 14 encouraged us to serve as believer-priests (cf. Ephesians 2:19- 22; 1 Peter 2:4-9. Romans 14:19 exhorted each one to pursue peace and mutual edification. These spiritual goals establish several key priorities for Christians as priests unto the Lord, i.e. building bonds of unity and harmony and strengthening one another’s faith. Keep in mind that there are many other duties of a believer-priest, especially in worship.
But here are a few of the ways we build God’s house as believer priests:
Speaking God’s Word to one another (both formally and in candid godly conversations) – Ephesians 4:15-16; 1 Peter 4:11
Standing before God in intercession for one another – Ephesians 6:18-20; 1 Timothy 2:1-2
Knowing and humbly submitting to the direction of spiritual leaders – Hebrews 13:17
Peace-making by graciously resolving conflict – Matthew 5:9; Romans 15:5-7
Calling one another to repentance and restoring one another by affirming God’s sure forgiveness in Christ to those who repent – Romans 15:14
Excommunication of those who refuse repentance – Matthew 18:17
Confessing the faith to each other – 2 Corinthians 4:13; Romans 10:9; Hebrews 10:23-25
Confessing the faith together before the world with good works and gospel proclamation – Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Peter 2:12
Singing to the Lord and to one another – Psalm 106:12; Colossians 3:16
Gathering with the saints in the name of Jesus to humbly hear the Word of God preached and taught – Acts 2:42; 20:7; Hebrews 10:25
Consoling brothers and sisters with the Word in their troubles – 1 Peter 3:8; Colossians 3:12
Serving one another with good works – Galatians 6:9-10; James 2:14-26
Embracing our vocation as a means of worship and ministry – Genesis 2:15; Psalm 128:1-2; Ephesians 4:28