- We were created out of relationship for relationship
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make mankind in Our image, according to Our likeness…So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them…Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone…’” Genesis 1:26a, 27 and 2:18 NASB
2. The result of sin is disconnection from God and from one another
“Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves waist coverings. Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” Genesis 3:7,8 NASB
3. Jesus came to undo the effects of sin and invite us into true life
“For if by the offense of the one, death reigned through the one, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. So then, as through one offense the result was condemnation to all mankind, so also through one act of righteousness the result was justification of life to all mankind.” Romans 5:17-18 NASB
4. The Kingdom of God advances through Christian community
“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.And all the believers were together and had all things in common;and they would sell their property and possessions and share them with all, to the extent that anyone had need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47 NASB
What are the roadblocks to true community?
- Connectivity
2. Idealism
3. Individualism
4. Intimidation
How do we find true community?
- Commit to your community
2. Fully participate in your community
“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 NASB
3. Be vulnerable with your community