Have you ever felt utterly alone, grappling with isolation even in a crowd? In this week’s message, we will explore the profound significance of community and connection, reflecting on this past week’s national Church of God Convention and using Elijah’s journey from despair to a divine encounter in 1 Kings 19 as a backdrop. It will highlight how Elijah, despite his triumph over the prophets of Baal, succumbed to loneliness and fear, forgetting the community around him. Pastor will underscore that just as Elijah was not truly alone, hidden allies stood ready to support him; neither are we alone if we embrace our roles in the family of God. Through the Holy Spirit’s binding power and Christ’s sacrifice, we are called to engage actively with one another, fostering genuine relationships that provide encouragement and accountability. This message isn’t merely theoretical; it’s a call for each of us to cultivate deeper connections within our church community for holistic healing and spiritual growth. Join us in discovering how life together can transform our faith journey and help us overcome the isolation that so many feel today.

((Audio Only))

Study Guide

1 – Pastor shared that in community, we find encouragement to keep going. In what ways do you think being part of a community can help you during tough times?
– Application: Can you think of a specific time when someone in your community helped you through a difficult situation? How did it make you feel?

2 – Based on Pastor’s reflection on 1 Kings 19, why do you think Elijah felt so alone despite God’s presence? How can we relate this to our own feelings of isolation?
– Application: Have you ever felt alone similar to Elijah? How can you reach out or reconnect with others when you feel this way?

3 – What does the term ‘Life Together’ mean to you, and how does it connect to your relationships with others in your life?
– Application: How can you take proactive steps this week to foster stronger connections with the people around you?

4 – In what practical ways can we practice the concept of communion as described by Pastor, emphasizing that we need others to truly engage in it?
– Application: How can you create opportunities for connection and sharing within your community this week?

5 – Pastor mentioned that we often choose isolation in our digital age. What might be some reasons we prefer to stay connected online rather than in person?
– Application:  What steps can you take to engage more deeply with those around you and reduce feelings of isolation, even when it’s easier to stay online?

Bible References

Luke 22:19
Romans 5:10
Colossians 1:21-22
John 1:12
Matthew 28:20
John 14:16-18
Romans 12:1-5
James 5:17-18
1 Kings 18:40
1 Kings 19:1-18
Psalms 139:7-10