We have been created for community. God makes this declaration of companionship, “Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him’” (Genesis 2:18). Loving companionship was part of God’s intentions for the man as a human being. As human beings we are relational creatures; created for community.
What is Christian community? Christian community is a fellowship of believers, bound together by love, faith, and a shared commitment to living out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives. Think of it this way. Imagine a vast, interconnected web where each thread represents a unique individual. In this intricate tapestry, the strength of the whole depends on the resilience of each strand. Similarly, embracing genuine Christian community is like weaving our lives together, bearing one another’s burdens and finding strength in unity. As threads support and uphold the fabric, our interconnected lives create a community where love, understanding, and shared purpose thrive.
All we need to do is look to the body of Christ metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 to discover the biblical foundation for community. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, the Apostle Paul employs the metaphor of the “Body of Christ” to illustrate the unity and interdependence of believers within the Christian community. The metaphor emphasizes that, just as the human body is composed of various parts with distinct functions, the body of believers is diverse yet unified in Christ. Each part of the body plays a crucial role, and no part can function effectively in isolation. Likewise, every believer has a unique role within the Christian community, and their contributions are essential for the body’s overall well-being. The metaphor underscores the idea that when one part of the body suffers, the whole body suffers, and when one part rejoices, the whole body rejoices. This encourages a sense of shared responsibility, care, and empathy among believers. God has arranged the members of the body intentionally, giving each a specific function according to His design. This reinforces the idea that every believer has a purpose and is intentionally placed within the community. Regardless of the diversity of functions, each part is equally important. No believer should consider themselves more or less significant than others, promoting a spirit of humility and mutual respect. In essence, the Body of Christ metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 emphasizes the interconnectedness, diversity, and mutual dependence of believers within the Christian community, all functioning harmoniously under the lordship of Christ.
We receive a picture of such a community in action in the early church in Acts 2:42-17. This passage portrays the early Christian community as a close-knit and devoted group. They are characterized by their steadfast commitment to the apostles’ teachings, genuine fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. The believers willingly share their possessions, ensuring that none is in need. Their unity and generosity create a sense of harmony, and they worship together with glad and sincere hearts. A gathering of Christians on Sunday morning in a service is not necessarily synonymous with Christian community. Genuine Christian community is grounded in shared faith, mutual support, and a spirit of selflessness. Henri Nouwen proposed, “Community is first of all a quality of the heart.”
Jesus calls us to community. Consider John 13:34-35, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus has just shared with the disciples that He would be with them a little while longer. The disciples could not come with Him yet. This is true for all of us believers. But, while we await Christ’s return, He has work for us to do, which centers around being in loving community with one another. The commandment is new in the sense the love we are to have for one another is to resemble the love He has for us. Jesus calls us to genuine Christian community that reflects to one another the kind of love He has for us. Dietrich Bonhoeffer explained, “Christianity means community through Jesus Christ…”
How do we embrace genuine Christian community? We are to encourage one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to consider one another, provoke love and good works, and steadfastly gather together, emphasizing the importance of fostering mutual encouragement within the Christian community. We are to support one another. Galatians 6:2 emphasizes the principle of bearing one another’s burdens, urging believers to share in each other’s challenges and struggles, thereby fulfilling the law of Christ through a spirit of supportive and selfless love. We are to be united to one another in Christ. In Acts 4:32, the early believers are described as being of one heart and mind, sharing everything they had. This verse highlights the deep unity and generosity within the early Christian community, showcasing a powerful example of fellowship and selflessness. We are to be devoted to one another. Romans 12:10 encourages a profound love among believers, urging them to commit themselves to affectionate and genuine care for one another. It emphasizes the importance of esteeming others above oneself fostering a community characterized by honor, warmth, and mutual regard. We are to love one another. In 1 Peter 4:8, believers are urged to maintain fervent love for one another, emphasizing its power to cover a multitude of sins. This verse underscores the significance of unconditional love within the Christian community, fostering forgiveness, understanding, and unity.
Reflecting on my experience of embracing genuine Christian community, I recall times when I needed encouragement as I endeavored to grow in Christ. I can recall times when times were tough and I received support from my church family. I cherish the times I have experienced unity with other believers. I remember the devotion of my church family to me, and later my marriage and my family. Lastly, the love I’ve experienced from other believers has given me the framework for growth in knowing God and making Him known.
Consider Psalm 133:1, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when God’s people dwell in unity!” Picture a diverse garden, each plant distinct in its beauty and purpose. As the sun sets, these individual flowers collectively reflect the fading light, creating a breathtaking mosaic of colors. Embracing genuine Christian community is much like appreciating the unique contributions of each member, allowing the collective beauty of love, support, and shared faith to shine brightly in the darkness of the world. Just as a garden flourishes when tended to collectively, our Christian community blooms when we embrace and nurture the richness of our diverse gifts and experiences. As we embrace Christian community, we find strength in unity, support in times of need, and encouragement to grow spiritually together. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!