Stronger Together: The Power of Church Cooperation

One of the clearest ways the world sees Jesus is through the love His followers have for one another. In John 13:35, Jesus says, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” While this certainly applies to individuals within a local church, it also speaks to the relationships between churches. When congregations across communities choose to partner together—sharing resources, encouraging one another, and working side by side for the gospel—we are giving a living testimony of Christ’s love and unity.

In a time when division seems to dominate headlines, church cooperation shines as a beautiful countercultural witness. It reminds us that we are not in competition with one another, but co-laborers in the same harvest field. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase… For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.” We each have a role to play, but the growth comes from God—and He often chooses to work through partnerships among His people.

Cooperating churches multiply ministry impact. Ecclesiastes 4:9 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” When churches work together, whether through shared missions, community outreach, or leadership support, the result is often more effective than what any single congregation could do alone. Needs are met more fully, encouragement is spread more broadly, and the gospel travels farther.

The early church modeled this spirit of cooperation. In Acts 2:44-47, we see believers “together and [having] all things in common,” worshiping, eating, and praying in unity—and as a result, “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Their togetherness did not just meet needs—it was a compelling witness that drew people to Christ.

Here at TRBA, we believe God has placed our churches in this region not just to reach their own communities, but to partner with one another in reaching the world. Cooperation is not a strategy—it’s obedience. It’s love. It’s the body of Christ being the body of Christ.

Let us never forget the prayer of Jesus in John 17:21: “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” When we come together in unity and purpose, we reflect the heart of Christ—and we open the door for the world to believe.

May we be churches marked by love, joined in mission, and committed to working together for the glory of God.

If you have a story of how your church has worked with a sister church in the area, please let us know so we can encourage everyone with your ministry.