That is a bold statement for sure; however, it is true. On the surface I can think, I don’t need anyone. I’m just fine on my own, but God says something different. “Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other” (Romans 12:4-5). If we are to function as the body of Christ, which Jesus died for, we need one another. Ok, we need each other, but there is more.
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25). How can we follow this instruction when we don’t know one another?
This is what the early church did: “All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity – all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:42-47)
We should worship together, take communion together, and share meals together in our own homes! This is how we get to know one another and are able to encourage one another.
Community groups are a great way to accomplish this. Last year during my group, I saw new friendships form and relationships deepen. There were numerous testimonies of emotional healings and answered prayers.
Life is busy. It is for all of us, which is why we need to surround ourselves with others in the church that can encourage us on our paths closer to God and one another. I would encourage you to make joining a community group this year a priority. In so doing, we can fulfill Paul’s encouragement in 2 Cor. 13:11: “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
Read more about Community Groups at New Day and sign up at our website.