Have you ever seen ants work? I know it sounds ridiculous to start a lesson with that, but really, have you ever looked at ants and how work together? They work so well with each other, even without a leader, and yet they get things done, and they get them done together. The Bible actually mentions ants in Proverbs 6:6 and in 30:25. If you look real hard, they are carrying food, protecting their land, and even carrying their wounded off to safety. We try and do everything on our own without anyone’s help and along the way we’ve convinced ourselves that we’ve brought some good to the world by being independent. And the truth is, we actually need each other.
Living in Community
In Acts 20:17-38 ESV we read about Paul’s probable final meeting with the Ephesians elders. This meeting was very full of teaching the Gospel, warning and storytelling, In the final few verses it says this,
And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. And there was much weeping on the part of all; they embraced Paul and kissed him, being sorrowful most of all because of the word he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they accompanied him to the ship.
Within this time of Christian community we see so much life, teaching, and love on the part of everyone. I know for most of us as people, we desire this. I love this is quote by Bill Clem, “A community of believers following Jesus can image God in ways that an individual simply cannot.” ((Clem, Disciple, 123.)) If you really pay attention to any book of the bible, most of them are full of commands and graces that are meant for listeners that in a community context rather than an individual. This word community has been distorted over the years and will probably conjure up ideas of communism or exclusive types of cults. This is not the case, God has a plan for us to work and image Him together. We must get out of our lone-ranger mentality of life and ministry.
There are marks of a Christian community worth mentioning, so that imitations can be easily pinpointed. First, a Christian community worships. This means that a Christian community loves truth, prayer and enjoys eating together. Second, there is belonging that cannot be found anywhere else in the world because there people that forgiven by Jesus, so they forgive. A beautiful picture of belonging is when Jesus washes Peter’s feet in John 13; we see the perfect example of servant leadership and refreshing friendship. And third, we image God together on mission as a witness. ((Ibid., 130.)) When we love the world together, more can happen then what we could ever do on our own. The real question begins to be, are you a consumer? Or are you a giver?
Common distortions when it comes to community are often caused by sin. Sometimes, difficulties in community can also stem from various ways in which certain members have experienced generous, fun or unbiblical fellowship. Four common distortions ((Ibid., 141.)) an slowly sneak their way into a community; therapeutic, business network, programmatic, and exclusive. I think we have all been there, therapy looks like an accountability group, networks are business meetings, programs are boring, and exclusive groups are creepy. “Community distortions prevent us from experiencing and expressing the salvation Jesus died to provide.” ((Ibid., 150.))
Memorize This Scripture
Mark 9:50 (ESV)
Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, how will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
Personal Reflections
- Read Acts 2:42-47
- How would it look for our church for these descriptions to be true in our setting?
- Does this excite you? Why?
- Does this concern you? Why?
- What type of distortion do you see you most prone to be involved with; therapy, network, program, or exclusive?
- Take time now and plan to go to dinner or lunch with a group and find ways to integrate each other into the rhythms of everyday life. This might seem uncomfortable, but you all are mature adults, make it happen.
Things to Pursue on Your Own
Spiritual Discipline
- For a lot of people, the use of imagination sounds secular, though it can be secular, it doesn’t have to be. The imagination can be used ((Demarest, Satisfy Your Soul, 148.)) to the glory of God when fenced in by scripture, God gave us our imagination. Spend time in prayer and worship imagining in your mind the beauty of God and joining with other faithful followers in worshiping Him. Imagine what it can look like to be faithful Christians together, and mirroring the church as described in Acts chapter 2.
Personal Study
- Are you currently in community with other Christians, besides scheduled gatherings like Sundays or required meetings?
- Read the beatitudes in Matthew chapter 5.
- Could these teachings be applied to both an individual and in plurality? If so, why?
- Look at the beatitudes, and make note in your journal how each can be applied in your personal and community life.
- Study the scriptures laid out in table below, and evaluate if your life is bearing such fruit in your local community. ((Clem, Disciple, 136.))
| 'One-Anothers' | SCRIPTURE |
|---|---|
| Care | 1 Corinthians 12:25 |
| Forgive | Colossians 3:13 |
| Be Kind | Ephesians 4:32 |
| Submit | Ephesians 5:21 |
| Be Honest | Colossians 3:9 |
| Love | John 13:35 |
| Peace | 1 Thessalonians 5:13 |
| Hospitality | 1 Peter 4:9 |
| Serve | Galatians 5:13 |
| Instruct | Romans 15:14 |
Action Points
- While considering your family first, go out of your comfort zone and invite a family in your neighborhood to dinner inside your home, or out to a restaurant if you feel safer with that. I know, big step, but you’ll be surprised what doors can open when steps of kindness are pursued in the Name of Jesus.
