Embracing Community: The Heart of Discipleship
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound importance of community in the life of a disciple. We began by acknowledging the strength found in unity and the necessity of doing life together as followers of Jesus. The modern church often struggles with issues of convenience, preference, and comfort, which can detract from the true essence of discipleship. We need to return to the simplicity of the gospel and the mission Jesus set forth, which includes a deep commitment to community.
We delved into the biblical foundation for community, starting with Genesis, where God declared it was not good for man to be alone. This principle extends beyond marriage to the broader context of human relationships and community. The church is designed to be a family, a place where generations walk together, share life, and grow in faith. This intergenerational unity is crucial for the church's health and effectiveness.
We discussed the practical aspects of community, such as holding each other up in times of need, sharpening one another, and being strengthened through mutual support. The story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17 illustrates how we need others to help us when we grow weary. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that iron sharpens iron, highlighting the importance of relationships that challenge and refine us.
Community also involves giving and receiving. Each member of the body of Christ has unique gifts and strengths, and we are called to share these with one another. This mutual exchange enriches the entire community and helps us grow in maturity. The goal is to become a mature, unified body that reflects the love and character of Jesus.
Finally, we emphasized the need for intentionality in building and maintaining community. Life can be busy, and it's easy to become isolated. However, true discipleship requires us to make time for relationships, to be vulnerable, and to engage fully with others. This commitment to community is essential for our spiritual growth and for fulfilling the mission God has given us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Strength of Unity: Unity in the body of Christ is not just a nice idea; it is a source of strength. When we support each other, we can endure hardships and overcome challenges that would be impossible alone. This unity reflects the heart of God and His design for His people. [00:30]
2. Biblical Foundation for Community: From the beginning, God designed us for community. Genesis 2:18 states it is not good for man to be alone, emphasizing that we are created to live in relationship with others. This principle extends to the church, where we are called to walk together, support each other, and grow in faith as a family. [07:33]
3. Sharpening One Another: Proverbs 27:17 teaches that iron sharpens iron. In community, we are refined and challenged to grow. This process can be uncomfortable, but it is essential for our spiritual development. True growth happens when we engage with others who may have different perspectives and experiences. [21:58]
4. Giving and Receiving: In the body of Christ, we are called to both give and receive. Each person has unique gifts and strengths that contribute to the whole. By sharing these gifts, we enrich the community and help each other grow. This mutual exchange is vital for the health and maturity of the church. [36:52]
5. Intentionality in Community: Building and maintaining community requires intentional effort. Life can be busy, and it's easy to become isolated. However, true discipleship involves making time for relationships, being vulnerable, and engaging fully with others. This commitment is essential for our spiritual growth and for fulfilling God's mission. [42:38]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:30] - The Strength of Unity
[01:06] - The Call to True Discipleship
[01:50] - Adjustments in Our Lives
[02:25] - Simplicity of the Gospel
[03:01] - Search Me, O God
[03:36] - Surrender to the Holy Spirit
[04:12] - The Cost of Following Jesus
[04:54] - The Importance of Community
[05:55] - American Individualism
[06:41] - Designed for Community
[07:33] - Biblical Foundation for Community
[08:18] - Generational Unity
[09:08] - The Role of Elders
[10:52] - Generations Walking Together
[12:25] - Holding Hands Across Generations
[14:09] - Serving Together
[15:52] - The Opportunity of Community
[17:19] - The Impact of COVID
[18:58] - Holding Each Other Up
[21:58] - Sharpening One Another
[25:08] - The Balance of Boundaries
[26:47] - The Role of EGPs
[28:21] - The Value of Hard Work
[29:50] - Real Relationships
[31:19] - The Importance of Love
[32:30] - Strengthened in Community
[33:57] - The Reality of Offense
[35:32] - Giving and Receiving
[38:23] - The True Body of Christ
[39:51] - Bringing Maturity
[41:15] - Seasons of Life
[42:38] - Intentionality in Community
[43:57] - Prayer and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 2:18 (NIV) - "The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'"
2. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) - "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) - "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 2:18, why did God say it was not good for man to be alone? How does this principle extend beyond marriage to the broader context of community? [07:33]
2. In Proverbs 27:17, what metaphor is used to describe the process of mutual growth and refinement in relationships? How does this apply to our interactions within the church community? [21:58]
3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 mentions several benefits of having a companion. What are these benefits, and how do they relate to the concept of community discussed in the sermon? [32:30]
4. The sermon mentioned the story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17. What role did Aaron and Hur play in supporting Moses, and how does this illustrate the importance of community? [18:58]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the principle of "it is not good for man to be alone" from Genesis 2:18 inform our understanding of the necessity of community in the church? [07:33]
2. Proverbs 27:17 speaks about iron sharpening iron. What are some practical ways we can challenge and refine each other within our small group or church community? [21:58]
3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 highlights the strength found in unity. How can we apply this principle to support each other during difficult times, both spiritually and practically? [32:30]
4. The sermon emphasized the need for intentionality in building and maintaining community. What are some specific steps we can take to be more intentional about fostering relationships within our church? [42:38]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt isolated. How did that experience affect your spiritual growth, and what steps can you take to ensure you remain connected to the community? [17:19]
2. Proverbs 27:17 talks about sharpening one another. Identify one person in your life who challenges you to grow spiritually. How can you engage with them more intentionally this week? [21:58]
3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 mentions the importance of having someone to help you up when you fall. Who in your life can you rely on for support, and how can you be that support for someone else? [32:30]
4. The sermon discussed the importance of giving and receiving within the body of Christ. What unique gifts or strengths do you have that you can share with your community? How can you be more open to receiving from others? [36:52]
5. Building and maintaining community requires intentional effort. What specific changes can you make in your schedule to prioritize relationships and community involvement? [42:38]
6. The sermon mentioned the story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur. Think of someone in your life who might need support right now. How can you come alongside them and "hold up their hands"? [18:58]
7. Reflect on the idea of intergenerational unity. How can you engage with and learn from members of different generations within your church community? [10:52]
Devotional
Day 1: The Strength of Unity
Unity in the body of Christ is not just a nice idea; it is a source of strength. When we support each other, we can endure hardships and overcome challenges that would be impossible alone. This unity reflects the heart of God and His design for His people. The story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17 illustrates how we need others to help us when we grow weary. When Moses' hands grew tired, Aaron and Hur held them up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until sunset. This act of unity and support led to the Israelites' victory over the Amalekites.
In our own lives, we often face battles that can wear us down. It is in these moments that the strength of unity becomes evident. When we come together as a community, we can lift each other up, provide encouragement, and share the burdens. This unity is not just about physical support but also emotional and spiritual support. It is a reflection of God's love and care for us, and it is essential for our growth and perseverance as disciples of Jesus. [00:30]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (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! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken."
Reflection: Think of a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did the support of others help you through it? How can you be a source of strength and support for someone in your community today?
Day 2: Biblical Foundation for Community
From the beginning, God designed us for community. Genesis 2:18 states it is not good for man to be alone, emphasizing that we are created to live in relationship with others. This principle extends to the church, where we are called to walk together, support each other, and grow in faith as a family. The church is designed to be a family, a place where generations walk together, share life, and grow in faith. This intergenerational unity is crucial for the church's health and effectiveness.
The modern church often struggles with issues of convenience, preference, and comfort, which can detract from the true essence of discipleship. We need to return to the simplicity of the gospel and the mission Jesus set forth, which includes a deep commitment to community. This commitment involves being intentional about building relationships, being vulnerable, and engaging fully with others. It is through these relationships that we can experience the fullness of God's love and grow in our faith. [07:33]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: How can you be more intentional about building and maintaining relationships within your church community? What steps can you take to encourage and support others in their faith journey?
Day 3: Sharpening One Another
Proverbs 27:17 teaches that iron sharpens iron. In community, we are refined and challenged to grow. This process can be uncomfortable, but it is essential for our spiritual development. True growth happens when we engage with others who may have different perspectives and experiences. These interactions can help us see things from a new angle, challenge our assumptions, and push us to grow in ways we might not have on our own.
In the story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur, we see how community can provide the support and encouragement needed to persevere in difficult times. Similarly, in our own lives, we need others to help us stay sharp and focused on our spiritual journey. This sharpening process is not always easy, but it is necessary for our growth and maturity as disciples of Jesus. By engaging with others in meaningful relationships, we can help each other become more like Christ. [21:58]
Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who has challenged you to grow spiritually. How did their influence help you become a better disciple of Jesus? How can you be a source of sharpening for someone else in your community?
Day 4: Giving and Receiving
In the body of Christ, we are called to both give and receive. Each person has unique gifts and strengths that contribute to the whole. By sharing these gifts, we enrich the community and help each other grow. This mutual exchange is vital for the health and maturity of the church. When we give of ourselves, we not only bless others but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving.
The story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur illustrates the importance of giving and receiving support within the community. When Moses grew tired, Aaron and Hur were there to hold up his hands, ensuring the Israelites' victory. Similarly, in our own lives, we need to be willing to both give and receive support. This mutual exchange helps us grow in maturity and unity as the body of Christ. It is through this process that we can reflect the love and character of Jesus to the world. [36:52]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What unique gifts and strengths do you have that you can share with your community? How can you be more open to receiving support and encouragement from others?
Day 5: Intentionality in Community
Building and maintaining community requires intentional effort. Life can be busy, and it's easy to become isolated. However, true discipleship involves making time for relationships, being vulnerable, and engaging fully with others. This commitment is essential for our spiritual growth and for fulfilling God's mission. It is through intentional relationships that we can experience the fullness of God's love and grow in our faith.
The modern church often struggles with issues of convenience, preference, and comfort, which can detract from the true essence of discipleship. We need to return to the simplicity of the gospel and the mission Jesus set forth, which includes a deep commitment to community. This commitment involves being intentional about building relationships, being vulnerable, and engaging fully with others. It is through these relationships that we can experience the fullness of God's love and grow in our faith. [42:38]
Romans 12:10-13 (ESV): "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality."
Reflection: How can you be more intentional about building and maintaining relationships within your church community? What steps can you take to encourage and support others in their faith journey?
Quotes
1. "And I think over time, what ends up happening is that Christianity, the pursuit of God, the walk with God, has turned into an issue of convenience, an issue of preference, an issue of comfort, an issue of receiving. If I'm just honest, like, I've told you, like, some of my wrestlers, some of my frustrations lately, right? But I think that that's one of the things that God uses to go, hey, there needs to be some adjustments." [01:06] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "There's this thing where sometimes in our culture, it's like, we believe the scriptures until it's not convenient, or to where there's some mystery, or to where, you know, we all have these limitations, or maybe that doesn't sound like God, right? And yet, there's a surrender and a submission to the Holy Spirit. There's this, you know, there's this place in a church community that God created and placed us in where it's like, well, I got time. I've carved out a couple hours on a Sunday morning. That's it. I got a busy life. I got all kinds of things going." [03:36] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And I see some things in our culture where there's just such a busyness. It's been growing for a long time, right? And I understand that, like, in life, we have seasons. There are seasons when there are legitimate things happening and it changes what you can do, what can be involved in. But I also see that, like, sometimes, like, I went through something, this happened, I tried that. And it's just like, that is just, it's just not for me. And yet when I go back and I look at the scriptures, like, we were designed for community and for family from the very beginning." [06:41] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And I think this thing about generations walking together is really critical and it begins now. And it's funny because one generation, the strength that they bring in one age is probably looks different in another age, the strength that they bring. And I'll give you, for instance, it's like everyone in this room, some of you are young and some of you were young. I like to think I'm right in the middle, but I don't know. Maybe I've passed that mark. I don't know, but I'm saying I'm in the middle still." [11:52] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I think we have a real opportunity right now to do life as a community, to walk hand in hand. But I think for what God is doing and what God is bringing, it's going to require maybe a fresh look at our lives and what we value and what's important. I think, honestly, I think COVID has done some of that for us. COVID has caused people. I'm not getting into the politics of that or anything that happened, right? But we're now so many years looking at that in the rear view mirror. And I think it causes us to look at it from different aspects." [15:52] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You and I were designed for community. It's how this works. And to say that it's just God and me, it's just Jesus and me. And I get it because there is an element, right? It's just not how he designed it. Because that kind of mentality is what leads us to where we are now in the earth. That when it's just Jesus and me, I'm expecting him to do everything. He's going to do everything in me and he's going to do everything in the earth. And he, what he did is he created a church, a people. And he says, I'm going to fellowship with you." [17:19] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We have the Holy Spirit working in us and working with us, but equally he says, I'm going to place you in a community and you get to work this stuff out. Or maybe it's stuff gets worked out of you, right? And the challenge is that I think we'd love to create sterile environments. We'd love to create these sterile environments where people look like us, they sound like us, we believe the same things, where there's no contention, no strife, no problems. Everything goes smoothly. And I'm here to tell you, that's not real life." [21:58] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "There is a strength in unity. There's a strength in together in community where we have each other's back, right? Somebody falls, you have somebody that can lift you up and, and you could, you could hit this from so many levels. It's not just talking about when you physically fall. We're talking about when somebody morally falls. We're talking about when somebody has fallen emotionally, that we all go through stuff and outside of community, we end up isolated and alone. That's exactly where the enemy would love to have you." [33:57] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The only way that there's fruit of the spirit that gets manifested is by being planted in these kinds of communities that has the opportunity for that fruit to actually be expressed and manifested. You've heard the old adage, like, well, I didn't have patience. So I asked God to give me patience. So how does he give you patience? He doesn't, he doesn't wave a magic wand and go bibbidi-bobbidi-boo. You are patient. He goes, Prayer answered. I know, I know exactly who to send your way, right? This person comes into your life. You're like this person, like God's going, remember when he asked for patience, right?" [33:57] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "The goal of the church is maturity to become the bride of Christ, right? And it happens in community. And so, like I was saying before, there's seasons in our life. I think it's important to discern the season that you're in. There's some seasons when you can expend all kinds of time and energy. There's seasons where maybe you can't as much, but that's a season. If that turns into a lifetime, you missed the exit ramp, right? You missed the exit ramp of your season, or maybe you took a detour." [41:15] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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