The week’s memory work is Hebrews 10:24-25.

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Use a familiar tune to turn the verse into a song. Use the music to help you memorize the verse this week.

God designed our lives as followers of Jesus to happen in community. For this reason, the strategy of spiritual growth must include this essential component. We need a group of people around us to offer support, encouragement, wisdom, and discernment on the journey. Significant life change does not happen without community because it is the setting in which we live out Biblical truth.

What does Christian community look like in practical terms?

Jesus lived in community with the disciples. The disciples came to know Jesus, and they became like Him as they watched Him live a life of love and service. In our day, an online community is not the answer. We are more connected digitally at this time in history, but liking one another’s posts is not real community. Community needs to be the place where we grow to know other Christ-followers, and they come to know us.

Christian community gives us a place to be vulnerable and have accountability. In committing to one another, we determine where we are on the journey and where we need to take a step. We help each other take our next step to know and become like Jesus.

How is Christian community the place in which real transformation in Christ occurs?

Are you currently in a small group? Are you working in close relationship with other Christ followers? Why or why not?

Romans 12:9-18:

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Paul’s words in Romans only become real in our lives in community. It is where we learn to love one another. It is the place we learn how to have difficult conversations and do the hard work of forgiveness. Community is hard, but it is the place of transformation.

What role has Christian community played in your spiritual development and your Christian formation?

Pray about what God is showing you today.