Building Community: Navigating Relationships with Grace

Devotional

Day 1: The True Essence of Church Community

The church is not defined by a building but by the gathering of believers to glorify Jesus Christ. Whether we meet in homes or larger venues, our mission remains the same: to make disciples and fulfill the Great Commission. This perspective helps us stay focused on our true purpose and maintain unity despite external circumstances. The early church often met in homes, fostering a sense of intimacy and community that transcended physical structures. Today, as we reflect on our journey, we are reminded that our strength lies in our unity and shared purpose, not in the walls that surround us.

In Matthew 18:20, Jesus says, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." This underscores the idea that the presence of God is not confined to a specific location but is with us whenever we come together in His name. As we continue to gather, whether in homes or larger venues, let us remember that our mission is to glorify Jesus and make disciples, staying true to our calling as a community of believers. [11:59]

Matthew 18:20 (ESV): "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them."

Reflection: How can you contribute to fostering a sense of community and unity within your church, regardless of the physical setting?

Day 2: Navigating Relationships with Grace

Relationships are inherently challenging, but Jesus provides guidance on how to manage them with grace. He emphasizes the importance of addressing our own shortcomings before judging others. This approach not only helps us avoid hypocrisy but also enables us to support others more effectively in their spiritual journey. By focusing on self-reflection and personal growth, we can create healthier and more supportive relationships within our community.

Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:3-5 highlights the importance of self-awareness and humility in our interactions with others. He says, "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye." This passage reminds us to prioritize our own spiritual growth and to approach others with grace and understanding. [16:15]

Matthew 7:3-5 (ESV): "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."

Reflection: Think of a recent conflict or misunderstanding you had with someone. How can you apply Jesus' teaching on self-reflection and grace to that situation?

Day 3: Intimacy with God

Jesus encourages us to ask, seek, and knock, promising that our Heavenly Father will respond with good gifts. This relationship is characterized by trust and intimacy, akin to a child’s relationship with a loving parent. Understanding God as "Abba" or "Daddy" helps us approach Him with confidence and trust in His goodness. This intimate relationship with God is foundational to our faith and empowers us to live out His will in our daily lives.

In Matthew 7:7-11, Jesus says, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" This passage reassures us of God's loving nature and His desire to bless us. [30:59]

Matthew 7:7-11 (ESV): "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more deeply? How can you approach Him with the confidence of a child asking their loving parent for help?

Day 4: The Golden Rule

Jesus instructs us to treat others as we would like to be treated. This principle, if applied universally, has the power to transform our communities and the world. It challenges us to be proactive in our kindness and consideration, fostering healthier and more loving relationships. The Golden Rule is a call to empathy and selflessness, encouraging us to put ourselves in others' shoes and act with compassion and integrity.

In Matthew 7:12, Jesus says, "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." This simple yet profound command encapsulates the essence of ethical behavior and mutual respect. By living out the Golden Rule, we can create a more just and loving world, reflecting God's love in our interactions with others. [36:32]

Matthew 7:12 (ESV): "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."

Reflection: Think of a specific situation where you can apply the Golden Rule today. How can you show kindness and consideration to someone in a way that reflects how you would like to be treated?

Day 5: Accountability in the Church

Jesus and Paul both emphasize the importance of holding each other accountable within the church. This is not about being judgmental but about supporting each other in our spiritual growth. By addressing sin and encouraging righteousness, we help each other stay true to our commitment to follow Jesus. Accountability within the church fosters a culture of honesty, growth, and mutual support, helping us to live out our faith more authentically.

In Galatians 6:1-2, Paul writes, "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." This passage highlights the importance of gentle restoration and mutual support within the church community. By holding each other accountable, we can help each other grow in our faith and stay true to our commitment to follow Jesus. [20:39]

Galatians 6:1-2 (ESV): "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Reflection: Is there someone in your church community who may need gentle support and accountability? How can you approach them with love and humility to help them in their spiritual journey?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Good morning, Impact Church! Today, we reflect on our journey as a church and the essence of what it means to be a community of believers. We began in homes, and today, we return to that intimate setting, reminding us that the church is not defined by a building but by the gathering of saints to glorify Jesus Christ. As we dive into Matthew chapter 7, we explore the complexities of relationships and how Jesus instructs us to navigate them.

Relationships are inherently challenging, whether they are romantic, friendships, or within the church. Jesus acknowledges this and provides guidance on how to manage these relationships with grace and love. He emphasizes that while it is easy to judge others, we must first address our own shortcomings. By doing so, we can help others more effectively and avoid hypocrisy.

Jesus also teaches us about the importance of our relationship with God. He encourages us to ask, seek, and knock, promising that our Heavenly Father will respond with good gifts. This relationship is characterized by trust and intimacy, akin to a child’s relationship with a loving parent. Jesus uses the term "Abba," meaning "Daddy," to illustrate the closeness we can have with God.

Finally, Jesus instructs us on how to treat everyone, encapsulated in the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." This principle, if applied universally, has the power to transform our communities and the world. As we continue our journey, let us strive to embody these teachings in our daily lives, fostering healthy relationships within the church and beyond.

###

Key Takeaways

1. The Essence of Church Community: The church is not defined by a building but by the gathering of believers to glorify Jesus Christ. Whether we meet in homes or larger venues, our mission remains the same: to make disciples and fulfill the Great Commission. This perspective helps us stay focused on our true purpose and maintain unity despite external circumstances. [11:59]
2. Navigating Relationships with Grace: Relationships are inherently challenging, but Jesus provides guidance on how to manage them with grace. He emphasizes the importance of addressing our own shortcomings before judging others. This approach not only helps us avoid hypocrisy but also enables us to support others more effectively in their spiritual journey. [16:15]
3. Intimacy with God: Jesus encourages us to ask, seek, and knock, promising that our Heavenly Father will respond with good gifts. This relationship is characterized by trust and intimacy, akin to a child’s relationship with a loving parent. Understanding God as "Abba" or "Daddy" helps us approach Him with confidence and trust in His goodness. [30:59]
4. The Golden Rule: Jesus instructs us to treat others as we would like to be treated. This principle, if applied universally, has the power to transform our communities and the world. It challenges us to be proactive in our kindness and consideration, fostering healthier and more loving relationships. [36:32]
5. Accountability in the Church: Jesus and Paul both emphasize the importance of holding each other accountable within the church. This is not about being judgmental but about supporting each other in our spiritual growth. By addressing sin and encouraging righteousness, we help each other stay true to our commitment to follow Jesus. [20:39]
### [20:39]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[11:59] - House Church Style
[13:23] - Relationships are Hard
[14:52] - Romantic Relationships
[16:15] - Jesus Cares About Relationships
[17:42] - Judging Others
[19:10] - Grace Over Judgment
[20:39] - Accountability in the Church
[23:26] - Hypocrisy and Self-Reflection
[26:03] - Healthy Relationships
[26:45] - Dogs and Pigs
[29:34] - Relationship with the Heavenly Father
[30:59] - Ask, Seek, Knock
[36:32] - The Golden Rule
[38:33] - Treating Others Well
[40:10] - Prayer and Conclusion
[40:57] - Announcements and Closing

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does Jesus say about judging others in Matthew 7:1-2? How does He suggest we should approach judgment? [17:42]
According to Matthew 7:7-8, what are the three actions Jesus encourages us to take in our relationship with God? [29:34]
How does Jesus describe the relationship between a child and their father in Matthew 7:9-11? What does this imply about our relationship with God? [30:59]
What is the Golden Rule as stated in Matthew 7:12, and how does Jesus say it summarizes the law and the prophets? [36:32]

Interpretation Questions

Why does Jesus emphasize the importance of addressing our own shortcomings before judging others? How does this help us avoid hypocrisy? [23:26]
In 1 Corinthians 5:12-13, Paul talks about judging those inside the church. How does this align with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:1-5? [20:39]
How does understanding God as "Abba" or "Daddy" change the way we approach Him in prayer and our daily lives? [35:38]
How can the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," transform our relationships within the church and in the broader community? [36:32]

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you judged someone harshly. How could you have approached the situation differently by first addressing your own shortcomings? [23:26]
Think about a relationship in your life that is challenging. How can you apply Jesus' teaching on asking, seeking, and knocking to improve this relationship? [30:59]
How can you cultivate a more intimate relationship with God, viewing Him as "Abba" or "Daddy"? What specific steps can you take this week to deepen this relationship? [35:38]
Identify a person in your church community who might need support. How can you offer help without being judgmental, and what steps can you take to ensure you are spiritually healthy first? [24:43]
Consider a situation where you felt someone was not receptive to your help or the gospel. How can you discern when to persist and when to step back, as Jesus advises in Matthew 7:6? [26:45]
How can you actively practice the Golden Rule in your workplace or neighborhood this week? Think of a specific action you can take to treat others as you would like to be treated. [36:32]
Reflect on the concept of accountability within the church. How can you create a supportive environment that encourages spiritual growth without being judgmental? [20:39]

Sermon Clips

1. "Relationships are hard. Relationships are hard. You probably didn't need me to tell you that because you know that, right? Think about relationships. Think about romantic relationships. Dating is hard. I thought, you know, growing up, I actually was born in the 1900s, which is crazy to think about. But as I was growing up and dating, if you liked someone, you had to get the courage, to go up to them and speak to them and start a friendship and kind of a talking and a conversation with them. And it was awkward." [14:52] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Relationships are hard, but Jesus cares about them. Jesus cares about our relationships among our church family. Jesus cares about our relationships outside of our church family. And Jesus cares about our relationship ultimately with him. And that's what we're going to be talking about today. And I hope you also realize that this idea of relationships is what we're talking about when we say community groups, when we talk about living in community, biblical community with one another." [16:15] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Jesus says, judge not that you be not judged for with the judgment you pronounce, you will be judged. And with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Well, Jesus starts off not pulling any punches, really talks about the idea of judging as followers of Jesus. You can write this down. First thing Jesus is going to talk about is our relationships with other brothers and sisters." [17:42] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Jesus is calling us not to turn a blind eye to things. So when someone's doing a behavior or things, he's not saying don't judge. He's not calling us to turn a blind eye to that behavior. Instead, he's calling us to show grace. A lot of times when we think about judges, we don't immediately think about grace, right? I brought with me today, a gavel. You guys may know what this is. This is what judges use when they are presiding over a court." [19:10] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Jesus isn't telling us don't ever remove specks from a brother or a sister's eye. He's telling us, well, you get healthy first. I want you to imagine. If I came to you and I had this, found this speck of wood and what it really means instead of eye, I want you to imagine it's like in your heart. And this little speck of wood represents a little bit of sin in your life. Maybe some ways you're being disobedient or maybe just some issues going on in your life that you need to take to God and need to be addressed." [23:26] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "Jesus says that's a relationship we need to have with our heavenly father. Shameless in asking. We need to ask him. We need to seek him. And we need to knock on those doors shamelessly because Jesus has promised that he will give us good things that our heavenly father knows. And he gives this illustration of like an earthly dad. He says of an earthly dad, if a child comes up and asks for some bread." [32:34] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "God loves us way more than an evil earthly father. He is perfect and he cares for us and he loves us. It's kind of like when somebody, maybe you prayed for something and it didn't happen. I know I've been doing that a lot lately as I've been praying for our church and even a place for us to meet. And it can be discouraging. And you think, okay, God, I prayed for this, but you didn't give it. And then somebody comes along and says these words. God must have something better for you." [34:08] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Jesus says, I want you to live to others, be active in your relationships with others. Both in the church. And outside of the church, both other Christians and non-Christians. I want you to do for them exactly what you would want them to do for you. Now, what if everyone in our church treated each other that way? Like what would that be a church you would want to go to? Absolutely. What if everyone in Fredericksburg treated each other that way? I'll tell you what, there'd be less traffic jams on I-95." [37:39] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Jesus cares about our relationships. He cares about our relationships with each other. He cares about our relationship with God, and he cares about our relationships with everybody. Even non-Christians around the world." [39:34] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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