Biblical Community, Are You Called to it? Where do you find it? If you consider yourself a Bible believing, Gospel trusting, follower of Jesus Christ, then you must consider yourself a Christian, right? If these things are true of you and you are a Genuine Christian, then you are called to Biblical Community. But what is Biblical Community?
The concept of Biblical Community is predominant to the Christian life. Biblical Community is foundational in the teachings of Jesus Christ and all the writers of the New Testament. In the book of Acts we see the early church – the first Christian believers – in Biblical Community.
Acts chapter one they are in the upper room together for days, praying, living in Biblical Community. In chapter two we read in verses 42-47 of Biblical Community. We see it in Acts chapter 3 & 4 and again in chapter 6, a need is met while living in Biblical Community.
But what is the reality of necessity of Biblical Community today? Biblical community provides a nurturing environment for spiritual growth – discipleship. It is through shared worship, Bible study, and fellowship, believers are encouraged in their own and edifying others in our faith journey.
Not only encouragement, through Biblical Community we find strength and support for living out our God-given purpose daily. God has built within us a desire for relationships. This is where we obtain support, through our relationships. For the believer, Biblical Community is the only place you will ever, in this life, find that needed support.
So, where do you find Biblical Community? In the church? Yes, in a sense, but no matter the size of a worship service, none can fill the innate desire God has placed in your heart. True fulfillment of Biblical Community is only found in relationship fostering in small groups. This is why small group Bible study classes are so imperative to Biblical Community.
Yet, many churches, many Bible study classes, many Sunday Schools, have forgotten or strayed away from Biblical Community. We settle for an hour together, once a week, for Bible study. While Bible study is a huge, intricate part of growing as a Disciple, it is not Biblical Community.
In Acts 2:42-47 we find that Biblical Community extended beyond Bible teaching. They encouraged, supported and cared for one another’s needs. They were ministering to one another. Also, they were sharing with others, outsiders, therefore their numbers were growing – daily, which encouraged every believer even more. They were also praising God, worshipping together. Biblical Community is a complete 7 day a week lifestyle.
How is your Biblical Community? Are you too busy? You need Biblical Community. As a believer, God has called you to Biblical Community. Biblical Community is still as critical today as was the early church. What will you do today to begin praying and studying about Biblical Community, and engaging in a small Group that truly promotes and lives in Biblical Community?
George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life. Click here to receive this blog in your email inbox each Tuesday.