Embracing Community: Strengthening Faith Together
Summary
In my sermon today, I began by welcoming everyone to our second Sunday of Easter, emphasizing the continuation of the Easter journey as we gathered to celebrate communion. I expressed the joy of the season, noting the beauty of the morning and the signs of spring, and invited the congregation to join in the opening hymn and to participate in the communion service. I also mentioned the upcoming special faith membership Sunday, where we would witness confirmations and welcome new members to our church community.
I acknowledged the birthdays and community events, such as the chicken dinner at Guilford and the candle-making workshop at Churchill, encouraging participation and support for these gatherings. I then led the congregation in a moment of reflection, acknowledging the land and its Indigenous peoples, and inviting everyone to join in the call to worship from Psalm 133, which speaks to the goodness of living together in unity.
As we prepared for communion, I recounted the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, symbolizing his body and blood, and instructed them to do this in remembrance of him. I prayed for the Holy Spirit to bless the elements and unite us as one body in Christ. We then shared in the bread and wine, reaffirming our connection to each other and the risen Christ.
In my message, I reflected on the importance of community in our faith journey. I shared my personal story of seeking truth and the fulfillment I found in returning to my Christian roots and finding a like-minded faith community. I emphasized that while solitude can be beneficial, we ultimately need the support and restoration that comes from being part of a faith-filled community, especially during challenging times such as loss, health issues, or crises of faith.
I discussed the disciples' experiences after the resurrection, how they locked themselves away in fear, and how Jesus appeared to them, offering peace and the Holy Spirit. I highlighted Thomas's initial absence and disbelief, and his eventual declaration of faith upon seeing the risen Christ. This story illustrated that faith can take time to develop and that we all have unique paths to understanding and believing.
I encouraged the congregation to remember that Jesus faced the worst of humanity on the cross, yet forgave everyone, and that his resurrection renews our faith. I reminded them that Jesus never walked alone and neither should we; he gave us each other for support. I invited those feeling isolated to join us in church to experience the support and renewal that comes from physical togetherness.
I concluded by emphasizing the power of community in strengthening our faith and facing life's challenges. I urged the congregation to embrace the good news of Easter and to let Jesus heal our hearts, binding us together as one.
Key Takeaways:
1. Community is essential for our spiritual restoration and growth. Just as I found solace and strength in a faith-filled community after a period of seeking, we all need a circle of believers to support us through life's trials. The story of the disciples after the resurrection teaches us that even in fear and doubt, coming together in faith can lead to renewal and hope. [32:09]
2. Our faith journeys are unique, and we must respect the different paces at which we and others come to believe. Thomas's story is a powerful reminder that doubt is not a failure but a step towards a deeper understanding and a more profound declaration of faith. It is through community that we can support each other's paths and witness the transformative power of belief. [38:51]
3. In times of crisis or change, such as the closing of a church or personal betrayals, it is the community that Jesus uses to pull us back together. The resurrection story is not just about Jesus' triumph over death but also about his ability to unite us in the face of adversity, offering a fresh start and a new way forward. [37:11]
4. The act of coming together in worship, such as during communion or faith membership celebrations, is a powerful testimony to the strength of our shared faith. It is in these communal acts that we witness the risen Christ among us, inspiring us to live fearlessly and to grow in our faith. [42:46]
5. Our faith is like a seed that requires the nourishment of a community to flourish. Next week's confirmation and membership ceremonies are not just for the individuals involved but serve as a reminder to us all of the importance of standing together, professing our faith, and nurturing the next generation of believers. [44:39]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 133:1-3 - "How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down upon the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down over the collar of his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion. For there the Lord ordained his blessing, life forevermore."
2. John 20:24-29 - "But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, 'We have seen the Lord.' But he said to them, 'Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.' A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you.' Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.' Thomas answered him, 'My Lord and my God!' Jesus said to him, 'Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.'"
3. Acts 2:42-47 - "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 133 say about the goodness of living together in unity? How is this unity described? ([07:22])
2. In John 20:24-29, what was Thomas's reaction when he first heard about Jesus' resurrection? How did his reaction change after seeing Jesus? ([30:09])
3. According to Acts 2:42-47, what were the early believers devoted to, and how did they live out their faith in community? ([24:04])
4. What specific events and activities did the pastor mention that help build community within the church? ([05:28])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the unity described in Psalm 133 relate to the concept of community emphasized in the sermon? ([07:22])
2. What can Thomas's journey from doubt to faith teach us about the different paces at which people come to believe? ([30:09])
3. How does the early church's practice of sharing and fellowship in Acts 2:42-47 serve as a model for modern faith communities? ([24:04])
4. Why is it important to acknowledge and support community events and gatherings, as mentioned in the sermon? ([05:28])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt isolated or alone in your faith journey. How did a community help you through that period? If you haven't experienced this, how might you seek out such support? ([34:00])
2. Thomas needed to see and touch Jesus to believe. What are some ways you can support someone who is struggling with doubt in their faith? ([30:09])
3. The early church shared everything in common and supported each other. How can you contribute to creating a supportive and generous community in your church? ([24:04])
4. The pastor mentioned various community events like the chicken dinner and candle-making workshop. How can participating in these events strengthen your connection to the church community? ([05:28])
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of physical togetherness in worship. How can you make an effort to attend church services and events more regularly, and what impact do you think this will have on your faith? ([42:46])
6. Think about someone in your church who might be feeling isolated. What specific actions can you take this week to reach out and include them in the community? ([40:46])
7. The pastor shared a personal story of finding fulfillment in a faith-filled community. How can you share your own faith journey with others to encourage and build up your church community? ([32:09])
Devotional
Day 1: Strength in Spiritual Community
Community is the bedrock upon which faith is nurtured and grown. In times of solitude, one may find temporary peace, but it is within the embrace of a faith-filled community that true spiritual restoration and growth occur. This community offers support through life's trials, much like the disciples found renewal and hope after the resurrection despite their initial fear and doubt. The act of coming together, sharing in each other's lives, and carrying each other's burdens is not just a social activity but a profound spiritual practice that echoes the early church's gatherings. It is in this togetherness that individuals can find the strength to face challenges and the courage to continue their faith journey, even when the path seems uncertain.
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!" - Psalm 133:1-2
Reflection: Reflect on a time when the support of your faith community helped you through a difficult period. How can you contribute to strengthening this sense of community within your church today? [32:09]
Day 2: Embracing the Pace of Faith
Faith is a journey that unfolds at different rates for each individual. Like Thomas, who needed to see to believe, some may require more time and evidence to reach a place of deep conviction. This diversity in spiritual development is not a weakness but a testament to the unique ways God works in each person's life. A community that understands and respects these differences can offer a nurturing environment where questions are welcomed, and doubts are seen as steps toward a stronger faith. In such a community, individuals are free to grow at their own pace, supported by the collective wisdom and experiences of their fellow believers.
"And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles." - Acts 2:42-43
Reflection: Can you think of someone in your community who may be struggling with doubts about their faith? How can you offer them support without judgment, and what can you learn from their journey? [38:51]
Day 3: Unity in Adversity
The resurrection story is a powerful narrative of unity and new beginnings. It reminds us that in times of crisis or change, such as the closing of a church or personal betrayals, it is the community that Jesus uses to pull us back together. This unity is not just about standing side by side; it's about sharing in the collective spirit of resilience and hope that Jesus imparts. When faced with adversity, a community bound by faith can find the strength to overcome obstacles and forge a new path forward, guided by the light of the risen Christ.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25
Reflection: What is a current challenge in your life that could be alleviated by seeking the support of your church community? How can you take a step towards unity and shared strength this week? [37:11]
Day 4: Communal Acts of Worship
The act of coming together in worship, such as during communion or faith membership celebrations, is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of shared faith. These communal acts are not mere rituals; they are the embodiment of the risen Christ among us, inspiring us to live fearlessly and to grow in our faith. Through these shared experiences, we not only remember Christ's sacrifice but also celebrate the ongoing life of the church, the body of Christ on earth, as it continues to nurture and shape our spiritual lives.
"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." - Romans 12:4-5
Reflection: How does participating in communal worship, like communion, impact your personal faith journey? What can you do to make these experiences more meaningful for yourself and others? [42:46]
Day 5: Nurturing Faith Together
Faith is likened to a seed that requires the nourishment of a community to flourish. The upcoming confirmation and membership ceremonies are not just milestones for the individuals involved but also serve as a reminder of the importance of standing together, professing our faith, and nurturing the next generation of believers. In these acts, the community reaffirms its commitment to support each member's spiritual growth and to cultivate an environment where faith can thrive.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." - Galatians 6:9-10
Reflection: In what ways can you actively support the faith journeys of newer or younger members of your church community? How can you help to create an environment that encourages spiritual growth for all? [44:39]
Quotes
"And sometimes being alone is good. But today's scriptures point to a hidden truth. That eventually, we need to come back together to be fully restored. To build each other up in a community of believers, of faith. Especially when times are tough. Like a death or a loss, a health challenge, a betrayal, any kind of crisis of faith. There is nothing more powerful to renew us than a faith-filled community. Jesus binds us together as one." [32:09]
"Jesus shows us that faith needs a community to grow and blossom. Nothing can be done alone. He gathers us, his own community of disciples, and us today, and restores our faith and binds us together as one. Jesus offers them and us a fresh perspective and empowers us with the Holy Spirit to walk along this path." [34:59]
"Our faith grows stronger when we flock together. When we come together as a community. Jesus binds us together as one. So what happens when things go wrong? Jesus provides the answer in our scriptures today. Jesus had a thriving ministry when he walked into Jerusalem... Within one week, loyal followers fell away and enemies persecuted and killed him. He seemed alone and yet on the cross he forgave everyone and he rose again on Easter Sunday." [37:11]
"We all have a unique, unique walk with God. But sometimes we need each other to challenge and enliven our faith, to show us the way, and to help us take a leap of faith, like making a profession of faith, like Thomas did on that second Sunday. My Lord and my God. So next week, we will be witnessing some more testimonies of the risen Christ, but also we will be celebrating faith or membership." [38:51]
"Jesus knows what we are going through. He knew we wouldn't be able to do it alone forever. He gave us to each other to get through it all, to all of life's challenges. To Jesus knows what it feels like because he faced the crucifixion. He died and was buried for three days... And yet, after three days a resurrection. Jesus appeared to his beloved disciples again and again, including Thomas who disbelieved." [40:46]
"Jesus never walked alone. He had his disciples, which became his family. He didn't want us to walk alone either... so if you are in this church god bless you you're here for those that are not here maybe are at home watching later feeling a little isolated perhaps we invite you to come to church to feel the support that is here for you in this place that when we come together physically we are renewed something amazing can happen jesus binds us together as one." [42:46]
"Like Thomas, who suddenly recognized his Savior, my Lord and my God, may we let Jesus heal our hearts and bind us together as one. Amen. We have a beautiful video for you. This is Cassandra Starr and her sister Callahan. Cassandra's 10, her sister's 19." [44:39]
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