Building God-Centered Relationships in Community
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the profound topic of relationships, exploring how they are central to our lives and faith. Reflecting on my own journey with Bernie, my wife of 45 years, I shared how our sense of belonging in the church has shaped our destiny. We discussed the importance of finding a spiritual home where our gifts and callings can flourish. Drawing from Luke 15, we examined how sometimes our spiritual gifts can feel lost within the church, but God desires to rediscover and activate them.
We then transitioned to the core message: "Relationships God's Way." Relationships are not just a part of life; they define life. Created by the relational Trinity, we are designed for relationships. In our modern culture, individualism often overshadows community, but in God's kingdom, we find a balance between uniqueness and community. Using the story of Brooks from "Shawshank Redemption," we illustrated the importance of community for a hopeful future.
Friendship emerged as the highest form of relationship, whether with God, our spouses, children, or friends. Jesus calls us friends, and this friendship with God enables us to befriend others, even those who are different from us. We explored the concept of osmosis in relationships, emphasizing that the more of God we have in us, the more we can influence the world positively.
Our relationship with Jesus shapes every other relationship. The cross, with its vertical and horizontal axes, symbolizes this dual aspect. The vertical axis represents our relationship with God, while the horizontal axis represents our relationships with others. The gospel breaks down barriers and hostility, transforming how we view and relate to people.
We concluded with six foundational principles for biblical relationships: recognizing our flaws, practicing forgiveness, having faith in others, securing our identity in Christ, fighting for relationships, and valuing community. These principles guide us in building healthy, God-centered relationships that reflect His love and grace.
### Key Takeaways
1. Belonging in the Church: Finding a spiritual home is crucial for discovering and fulfilling our destiny. In the church, our gifts and callings are nurtured and activated. Despite challenges, the sense of belonging and community in the church is where we experience the power and call of God. [03:01]
2. Relationships Define Life: Relationships are not just a part of life; they define it. Created by the relational Trinity, we are designed for relationships. In God's kingdom, we balance our uniqueness with living in community, which contrasts with the individualism prevalent in modern culture. [06:13]
3. Friendship with God and Others: Friendship is the highest form of relationship. Jesus calls us friends, and this friendship with God enables us to befriend others, including those who are different from us. True influence comes through relationships, not just beliefs. [08:45]
4. The Cross and Relationships: The cross symbolizes both our relationship with God (vertical axis) and our relationships with others (horizontal axis). The gospel breaks down barriers and hostility, transforming how we view and relate to people. Our relationship with Jesus shapes every other relationship. [12:35]
5. Foundations of Biblical Relationships: Recognizing our flaws, practicing forgiveness, having faith in others, securing our identity in Christ, fighting for relationships, and valuing community are essential principles for healthy, God-centered relationships. These principles guide us in reflecting God's love and grace in our interactions. [20:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:34] - Finding Home in the Church
[03:01] - Rediscovering Spiritual Gifts
[04:57] - Relationships God's Way
[05:35] - Relationships Define Life
[06:13] - Individualism vs. Community
[07:13] - The Importance of Community
[08:01] - Friendship as the Highest Relationship
[08:45] - Friendship with God
[09:40] - Osmosis in Relationships
[12:35] - The Cross and Relationships
[14:06] - Personal Testimony
[17:07] - Breaking Down Barriers
[18:39] - Viewing People Through the Gospel
[20:17] - Foundations of Biblical Relationships
[25:02] - Forgiveness and Offense
[27:02] - Identity in Christ
[29:07] - Fighting for Relationships
[30:42] - Community in the Church
[32:12] - Jesus' Last Words
[33:42] - Being Witnesses
[35:14] - Personal Story of Evangelism
[42:34] - Invitation to Receive Christ
[45:25] - Prayer for New Believers
[46:15] - Prayer for Relationships
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 15:8-10 (The Parable of the Lost Coin)
2. John 15:15 (Jesus calls His disciples friends)
3. Ephesians 2:14-16 (Christ is our peace, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility)
### Observation Questions
1. In the Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10), what does the lost coin represent, and where was it lost? How does this relate to the sermon’s message about spiritual gifts in the church? [03:01]
2. According to John 15:15, what significant change in relationship does Jesus declare to His disciples? How does this redefine their connection with Him? [08:45]
3. Ephesians 2:14-16 speaks about Christ breaking down the dividing wall of hostility. What are the two groups mentioned, and how does Christ bring them together? [17:07]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Reflecting on the Parable of the Lost Coin, why do you think spiritual gifts can sometimes feel lost within the church? How can the church help in rediscovering and activating these gifts? [03:01]
2. Jesus calls His disciples friends in John 15:15. How does this shift from being servants to friends impact the way we should view our relationship with God and others? [08:45]
3. Ephesians 2:14-16 discusses breaking down barriers and hostility. How does the gospel transform our view and relationships with others, especially those who are different from us? [17:07]
4. The sermon mentioned the concept of osmosis in relationships. How does the idea of having more of God in us influence our ability to positively impact the world around us? [09:40]
### Application Questions
1. Belonging in the Church: Have you ever felt like your spiritual gifts were lost or underutilized in the church? What steps can you take to rediscover and activate these gifts within your church community? [03:01]
2. Relationships Define Life: In what ways has individualism affected your relationships? How can you balance your uniqueness with living in community as described in the sermon? [06:13]
3. Friendship with God and Others: Jesus calls us friends. How does this friendship with God enable you to befriend others, especially those who are different from you? Can you think of a specific person you can reach out to this week? [08:45]
4. The Cross and Relationships: The cross symbolizes our relationship with God and others. How can you actively work to break down barriers and hostility in your relationships? Is there a specific relationship where you need to apply this principle? [17:07]
5. Recognizing Our Flaws: The sermon emphasized recognizing our flaws and practicing forgiveness. Is there someone you need to forgive or seek forgiveness from? How can you take a step towards reconciliation this week? [20:17]
6. Fighting for Relationships: What does it mean to fight for relationships rather than in relationships? Can you identify a relationship in your life that needs this kind of effort? How will you approach it differently? [29:07]
7. Valuing Community: How can you contribute to building a stronger sense of community in your church? What specific actions can you take to support and encourage others in your church family? [30:42]
Devotional
Day 1: Belonging in the Church
Finding a spiritual home is crucial for discovering and fulfilling our destiny. In the church, our gifts and callings are nurtured and activated. Despite challenges, the sense of belonging and community in the church is where we experience the power and call of God. When we feel lost or disconnected, it is often within the church community that we rediscover our spiritual gifts and find the encouragement to use them for God's glory. This sense of belonging is not just about attending services but about being an active part of a spiritual family that supports and uplifts each other.
In Luke 15, we see the parable of the lost sheep, where the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one that is lost. This illustrates God's heart for each of us, emphasizing that no one is insignificant in His eyes. Similarly, within the church, every member is valuable, and their unique gifts are essential for the body of Christ to function effectively. When we find our place in the church, we not only grow spiritually but also contribute to the growth and health of the entire community. [03:01]
1 Corinthians 12:18-20 (ESV): "But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body."
Reflection: Think about your current involvement in your church. Are you actively using your spiritual gifts? If not, what steps can you take to rediscover and activate them within your church community?
Day 2: Relationships Define Life
Relationships are not just a part of life; they define it. Created by the relational Trinity, we are designed for relationships. In God's kingdom, we balance our uniqueness with living in community, which contrasts with the individualism prevalent in modern culture. Our modern society often emphasizes self-sufficiency and independence, but God's design for us is to live in interdependence with others. This means valuing and nurturing our relationships, understanding that they are central to our spiritual and emotional well-being.
The story of Brooks from "Shawshank Redemption" serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community for a hopeful future. Brooks struggled to adapt to life outside prison because he had lost his sense of belonging and community. Similarly, when we isolate ourselves or prioritize individualism over community, we miss out on the richness of life that comes from meaningful relationships. In God's kingdom, we are called to live in a way that honors both our individuality and our need for community. [06:13]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"
Reflection: Reflect on your current relationships. Are there areas where you have prioritized individualism over community? How can you begin to foster deeper connections with those around you?
Day 3: Friendship with God and Others
Friendship is the highest form of relationship. Jesus calls us friends, and this friendship with God enables us to befriend others, including those who are different from us. True influence comes through relationships, not just beliefs. When we cultivate a deep friendship with God, it transforms how we relate to others. We begin to see people through God's eyes, valuing them and extending grace and love, even to those who may be difficult to love.
The concept of osmosis in relationships emphasizes that the more of God we have in us, the more we can influence the world positively. Our relationship with God should overflow into our relationships with others, creating a ripple effect of love, kindness, and compassion. This is how we truly make a difference in the world—by building genuine, loving relationships that reflect the heart of God. [08:45]
John 15:15 (ESV): "No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."
Reflection: Consider your relationship with God. How does your friendship with Him influence your relationships with others? Are there specific ways you can let God's love flow through you to those around you today?
Day 4: The Cross and Relationships
The cross symbolizes both our relationship with God (vertical axis) and our relationships with others (horizontal axis). The gospel breaks down barriers and hostility, transforming how we view and relate to people. Our relationship with Jesus shapes every other relationship. The cross is a powerful reminder that our faith is not just about a personal relationship with God but also about how we treat and interact with others.
The vertical axis of the cross represents our connection with God, which is the foundation of our faith. The horizontal axis represents our relationships with others, which are transformed by the love and grace we receive from God. The gospel calls us to break down barriers of hostility, prejudice, and division, and to build bridges of love, understanding, and reconciliation. This transformation is not just theoretical but practical, affecting how we live and relate to people in our daily lives. [12:35]
Ephesians 2:14-16 (ESV): "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility."
Reflection: Reflect on your relationships with others. Are there any barriers or hostilities that need to be broken down? How can you apply the message of the cross to bring reconciliation and peace in those relationships?
Day 5: Foundations of Biblical Relationships
Recognizing our flaws, practicing forgiveness, having faith in others, securing our identity in Christ, fighting for relationships, and valuing community are essential principles for healthy, God-centered relationships. These principles guide us in reflecting God's love and grace in our interactions. Building strong, biblical relationships requires intentionality and effort, but the rewards are profound and eternal.
Recognizing our flaws helps us approach relationships with humility and a willingness to grow. Practicing forgiveness allows us to move past hurts and build stronger connections. Having faith in others means believing in their potential and supporting their growth. Securing our identity in Christ gives us the confidence to love others without fear. Fighting for relationships means persevering through challenges and valuing community reminds us that we are not meant to do life alone. These principles are the foundation of relationships that honor God and reflect His love to the world. [20:17]
Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
Reflection: Think about your current relationships. Are there any areas where you need to apply these foundational principles? How can you begin to practice forgiveness, humility, and love in your interactions with others today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "In Christ, you discover eternity. But in the house, you discover destiny. And when you find that home, that sense of community, has there been rough days? You bet. Has there been just times in which we're out of here? Absolutely. But when you have that revelation of not just who you belong to, but where you belong, the combination of those two things is, I don't know how to use this word, but the magic." [02:00] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We were made by relationship and designed for relationship. Do you realize we were made by relationship? What does that mean? Well, the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, they are relationship. They are the definition of relationship. They created us. Relationship created us. And now we are created for relationship." [05:35] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Friendship is the highest level of relationship. God has designed us to be friends at so many different levels. Our relationship with God. We believe, we serve, but then we become friends of God. How crazy is that? God says, I want to be your friend. The creator of the universe says, hey, let's be friends. I mean, is that mind blowing or what?" [08:01] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Forgiveness is one of the greatest things that we can bring into a relationship. I believe we need to have low expectations and high grace. Many of us live with high expectations and low grace. And the gap between high expectations and low grace is deep conflict and deep disappointment." [21:47] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The gospel travels on relationship. It doesn't travel on theology. It doesn't travel on the gospel. It doesn't travel on belief you need theology you need belief but it travels on the vehicle of relationship and the hostility must be broken down because you can't reach people who you're hostile to." [41:50] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Where we place relationships on a priority scale is determined by our ideology. In other words, where do we place relationships as important? Is it one small part of life? Is it very important? Or I believe in the Scriptures, relationships define life. They are not part of life. They actually define life." [05:35] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Our relationship with Jesus shapes every other relationship. How do I know that? Well, here we have in Ephesians chapter two, I believe one of the greatest pictures and images of the nature of relationships and how it's meant to work. Now, we all know that the cross has two axes to it. There's the vertical and the horizontal." [12:35] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "One of the greatest revelations you can have is of your own brokenness. And as we relate to other broken people, if we see ourselves as unbroken, and they're broken, then there won't be actually a common ground in relationship. No, we're all broken. As in Philippians 1 verse 6, for example, it says there, he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion." [20:17] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The enemy is interesting. The Scriptures say, do not be ignorant of the devil's schemes. And what I believe the greatest scheme of the enemy is to get offense happening between relationships. Because if offense begins to happen, it can happen in the context of marriage, it can happen in the context of families, friendships, the house of God. If the enemy can get in between and blow and kick up the dust of offense, and suddenly the other person becomes the issue, then relationships begin to break down." [22:47] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We need to fight for relationships, and if you don't fight for it, you'll end up fighting in it. And let me just speak to the marriages again. As that fight is about to break out, recognise at that moment who your enemy is. The enemy is not your partner. The enemy is not that friend. Even though they're acting like it. Even though in your mind, as your own insecurities are being challenged, it's like, they're the enemy, and I'm gonna defend my territory in this relationship, then suddenly a fight breaks out, and once those fights break out, then more damage begins to take place." [29:07] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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