Pastor Brandon Zoll emphasizes the significance of living in an authentic Christian community as a vital spiritual discipline.  It will argue that, contrary to a culture of individualism, believers are created for communal life, providing support, encouragement, and accountability to one another. Drawing from Scripture, it will underscore that genuine community fosters spiritual growth and fulfillment of God’s purpose in our lives. Ultimately, it will encourage the church to embody being a family of families, cultivating deep relationships extending beyond Sunday gatherings to enhance their collective witness for the Kingdom of God.

((Audio Only))

Study Guide

1 – Why do you think living in an authentic Christian community is important for our spiritual growth?
– Application: In what ways do you see the impact of community in your own spiritual journey or the journey of someone you know?

2 – How do the statistics mentioned in the sermon, such as the rise of loneliness and decline of social connections, relate to the idea of being in a faith community?
– Application: What steps can you take to be more involved in a community of faith and help combat loneliness for yourself and others?

3 – What do you think it means to love one another within a church community, based on the one another commands mentioned in the sermon?
– Application: Can you identify a time when you felt loved or supported by your church family? How did that impact you?

4 – Pastor discussed the importance of mutual support and accountability in community. Why might these elements be essential for our faith?
– Application: How can you foster a sense of accountability in your relationships with friends or family who share your faith?

5 – Why do you think it’s a common belief in the lie that one can follow Jesus without being part of a church community?
– Application:  What do you think are the risks of trying to follow Jesus alone, and how can being part of a community help mitigate those risks?

Bible References

1 Timothy 4:7-8
Philippians 4:9
James 2:17
Genesis 2:18
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Matthew 16:18
Hebrews 10:23-25
1 Peter 5:8
Acts 2:42-47
John 17:20-23
1 Corinthians 12:26
Proverbs 27:17
Ephesians 4:1-3 &14-16