In the western church, Christianity is largely understood as an individual thing - a personal transaction between the individual and God. Consequently, Christian maturity is also understood, largely, in individual terms - the individual learns and grows in an essentially individualized learning environment and then, as he matures, he lives his life as a Christian, performs his ministry and fulfills his personal calling. In the New Testament, however, there is a very close relationship between the church and the believers maturing union with Christ. Christ builds Community! The inward life of Jesus in you is expressed in self-giving love, true servant hood in community.