Introduction
In our current world, marked by uncertainty and separation, the importance of community cannot be overstated. I want to emphasize how vital it is for us to cultivate relationships, especially during times when we are physically distanced. While many of us find ourselves sheltering in place, we are called to remain connected with one another in the body of Christ. As I have shared, God, in His wisdom, has provided us with online tools that allow us to maintain fellowship and support one another despite these challenges. I encourage each of you to persist in forming community, whether through digital gatherings or by reaching out to those who may feel isolated. Together, we will explore how these connections can foster spiritual growth and enable us to introduce others to Christ.
Main Points
As We Navigate These Strange Times
As we navigate these strange times, the significance of belonging to a community of believers becomes even clearer. In our home groups, we are given the opportunity to nurture relationships that are centered around faith.
- These gatherings, whether in person or online, are not just social interactions; they are fundamental to our spiritual development.
- When we love one another and support each other, we grow in our understanding of God’s love and grace.
- Relationships filled with love and encouragement enable us to move closer to Christ and to each other, fulfilling the biblical command to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2).
- In addition to fostering our own growth, our home groups serve as effective outreach communities.
Each Group Represents Various Neighborhoods And
Each group represents various neighborhoods and workplaces, making us well-placed to reach out to those who do not yet belong to the community of Christ. Many people are feeling a profound sense of loneliness and despair during this time, increasing their receptiveness to the hope we possess, through Christ.
- I urge you to be mindful of those around you who may need a community.
- Whether it's a text, a phone call, or an invitation to join your online group, your outreach could change someone’s life forever.
- In Ephesians 1:15-22, we read about the importance of prayer and seeking understanding from God.
- The Apostle Paul expresses a deep desire for believers to know the hope of their calling and the riches of their inheritance.
Now More Than Ever We Need
Now, more than ever, we need these insights to strengthen our spiritual foundations. As we engage in prayer, we invite God to enlighten our hearts to grasp the power available through our faith. It is through this understanding that we can begin to live out our calling and reflect the love of Jesus in our communities. As we dive into the book of Ephesians, we are prompted to reflect on who we are in Christ. This series, referred to as "this is us," will challenge us to look in the mirror of Scripture and recognize our identity and relationship with God and with each other. Understanding our identity is critical; it informs how we interact not only within the church but also in the broader community.
Knowing That We Are Beloved Children
Knowing that we are beloved children of God shapes our actions and encourages us to reach out to others with the same love that we receive. In this season, our focus may shift toward how we can respond to those around us who are feeling isolated. I encourage you to take action, whether through text messages, emails, or phone calls, to reach out to someone the Lord places on your heart. By fostering these connections, you can invite others into your home group, helping to fulfill both our objective of community building and expand the outreach of our church. God's love in us can profoundly impact those who are searching for community, especially now.
Conclusion
In conclusion, let us remember the essential role that community plays in our spiritual lives. As we embrace our identity in Christ and reach out to those around us, we fulfill the great commission to love and serve others. I encourage each of you to maintain those vital connections and to open your homes and hearts to those seeking belonging. Together, through prayer and outreach, we will navigate these times, knowing that God is faithful and has equipped us for every good work.