The Power of Community in the Lord By Pastor Mary Kearney

Community is an integral part of our walk with the Lord. In Scripture, we are consistently reminded of the importance of gathering, supporting, and growing together as the body of Christ. Our faith is not just an individual journey, but a shared experience that becomes richer when lived in fellowship with others. This shared faith not only strengthens each of us but also enables us to reflect God's love and compassion to the world around us.

The Biblical Foundation of Community

One of the most well-known verses about community comes from Hebrews 10:24-25:

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

This passage highlights the importance of meeting together, whether in church, small groups, or even in casual gatherings where believers can support and uplift one another. God designed us to live in community, to strengthen and encourage each other in our walk of faith. Through fellowship, we inspire one another to live out our calling, to pursue good works, and to grow deeper in love for God and others.

Unity in Diversity

God brings people from different walks of life together under one faith. The Apostle Paul reminds us of this in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14:

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many."

We are many parts, each with unique gifts, experiences, and perspectives. Yet, we are united by the Spirit of God, working together to glorify Him. This diversity within the body of Christ is a testament to God’s creativity and His ability to use each of us in unique ways to build His kingdom.

In a world that often divides people based on race, class, or background, the Church stands as a beacon of unity. We are called to be one body, working together for the common good, bound by our shared love for Christ. When we live this way, we reflect the nature of God’s kingdom—where every individual matters, and each contribution plays a vital role in advancing the gospel.

Serving and Supporting One Another

In a Christ-centered community, we are called not only to worship together but also to serve one another. In Galatians 6:2,  Paul urges:

      Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Serving one another means being there in times of joy and in times of struggle. It means celebrating victories together and also lifting each other up in prayer and practical help during hardships. True Christian community mirrors the selfless love of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).

When we carry each other’s burdens, we create an environment where healing, growth, and deeper connection can occur. This type of selfless love is counter-cultural, yet it is precisely what the world longs for—a place where people feel truly seen, known, and loved.

The Example of the Early Church

The early church serves as a powerful example of what it means to live in community. In the book of Acts, we see believers living with such unity and generosity that their way of life became a testament to the power of God working through them. Acts 2:44-47 says:

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

This picture of the early church demonstrates the beauty of shared life in Christ. They were committed to one another, sharing their resources, praying together, and consistently meeting to encourage one another in faith. As a result of their unity and love, God continually added to their number, drawing others into this vibrant, Christ-centered community.

Conclusion

In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, the Lord offers us a place of belonging through His Church. He calls us to live in unity, to serve one another, and to be a light to those around us. When we embrace the call to community, we reflect the love and grace of Christ in powerful ways.

Let us follow the example of the early believers, gathering together, breaking bread, and supporting one another with sincere hearts. As we do, we will not only strengthen our own faith but also draw others closer to the One who is the source of all life—Jesus Christ.

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” — Matthew 18:20

May we continue to build and nurture communities that honor God, inspire each other, and serve the world around us.

Blessings,

Pastor Mary Kearney

Off the Grid Christian Ministries