Transactional relationships in the Church can be dangerous because they shift the focus from selfless love and grace to a more conditional, exchange-based dynamic. When relationships within the Church are based on a “give-to-get” mindset, it undermines the core Christian principles of unconditional love, grace, and service.
Here are a few key reasons why transactional relationships can be problematic in the Church:

1. Undermines Genuine Community:
True Christian fellowship is about building authentic, loving relationships where we care for each other without expecting something in return. Transactional relationships can erode this sense of community, as people may only interact when there’s a personal benefit, creating a culture of superficiality.
2. Focuses on Self-interest:
In transactional relationships, individuals may prioritize their own needs and desires over the well-being of others. This contradicts the biblical teaching of humility and sacrificial love, where we are called to put others’ needs first (Philippians 2:3-4).
3. Creates Division:
Transactional relationships can lead to favouritism, as people might only invest in relationships with those who can offer something in return. This can cause divisions within the Church, creating an environment where people are treated based on their perceived value rather than their inherent worth as children of God.
4.Hinders Spiritual Growth:
If we approach our faith with a transactional mindset, it can impede our spiritual growth. The Church isn’t meant to be a place of quid-pro-quo; rather, it’s a place where people grow through grace, learning to love and forgive without expecting anything in return.
5. Misrepresents God’s Love:
God’s love for humanity is not transactional; it is unconditional and sacrificial (Romans 5:8). When Church relationships become transactional, they distort the nature of God’s love, making it seem conditional or earned, which can negatively impact our understanding of the gospel.

Transactional relationships in the Church can divert attention away from the gospel message of grace and love, fostering division and self-interest rather than unity and selflessness. The Church is meant to be a place where relationships reflect God’s unconditional love and where we serve one another without expecting personal gain.

Erick Bouwmeester
#lovebeyondchurch
#lovebeyondwordsministry
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