In our journey considering true and biblical community, we’ve established a foundation for community, we’ve defined community, we’ve examined the stages of community, and now we will explore the 5 pillars that cultivate community.
5 Pillars of Community
LOVE…I look beyond
This principle is motivated by proper perspective. Peter asked Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?”, and Jesus responded with, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” In other words, limitless forgiveness. How is this possible? Why would this be even requested of us? Simple. How can someone who has received eternal forgiveness from God–through Christ–, namely, salvation, not in turn offer forgiveness to others? Read Jesus’ further explanation here.
SELFLESS…I serve the whole
In a world of selfies, stages, and grand-stands, the Christian in community is called to consider others better than themselves. Paul’s words still echo true: “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus…”
CONSISTENT…I am here
Our culture applauds fashionably late, low-commitment, and go-with-what-suits-your-passions lifestyles. It’s the modus operandi of the cool Hollywood individual who answers to no one and does and says what he or she wants and feels. That never works. The real world needs men and women who are consistent. Presence possesses the power of community. Will you show up? That’s more than half the struggle.
HUMBLE…I admit, I haven’t arrived
Pride is the root of all sin. Pride says, “I don’t need anyone…I’m the captain of my ship, the arbiter of my destiny, and the master of my fate.” The problem with this attitude is that it brings the opposition of God upon you. Listen to these words “…Pride goes before destruction–Proverbs 16:18; When pride comes, then comes dishonor–Proverbs 11:2; God opposes the proud–James 4:6″. On the other hand, a humble man or woman brings God’s favor “…[God] gives grace to the humble.”
CONFESSION…I need help, again
The reality is that until we breathe our last breath we will sin. This reality is not because God’s grace is not sufficient for us, but that we still maintain our flesh. The problem with the Christian is that they can find themselves walking around like they’re sin-free. They know they’re not, their spouse knows they’re not, and their kids surely know they’re not, but they put on the appearance that they are. How is this evident? They rarely if ever confess their sins to others. This isn’t license to spew confessions to anyone, but it is a plea to confess within your community your sins that beset you. It brings prayer, it brings healing, and it brings the mercy of God. “He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.” Proverbs 28:13
Be encouraged. God loves you, because of Christ. Through Him, you are adopted, beloved, and members of His household. Glory. Now give that love, mercy, and grace to those in your community.
— March 2, 2018