COMMUNITIES

Communities

Personal fulfillment is the highest value, in this individualistic culture we live in. If you don’t find fulfillment in something get out of it. Sacrifice is the word consigned to dustbin. Split in the family is because of this radial individualism. Family is the most basic component of community, which is breaking down because of this individualism and in the longer run makes it difficult for people to establish meaningful relationships.

Regardless of this individualism, there is a craving for community. People seek out relationships in many places, from friendship clubs, churches to virtual communities on the Web. These groups must truly be caring communities to command people’s allegiance. People must find fulfillment collectively and individually. Key word for success of these groups is “authenticity”.

The Bible says, The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts…. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body…. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? …. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!”…. On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable…. (1 Corinthians Chapter 12, NIV).

This verse clearly speaks of qualifications of a genuine community.
Unity. Drawn together for a purpose. (The body is a unit, though it is made up of many…. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body)

Diversity. There must be room for the difference among people (If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? …. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!”)

Equality. Different abilities, viewpoints and roles. (On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable).

Unity, diversity, and equality are Biblical principles for an authentic community. Unity of purpose, recognition of diversity of gifts and diversity of views, and equality of worth and voice are basic conditions for a genuine community. In this we will find fulfillment, both as individuals and as groups.

Small groups provide a means of meeting these needs.

1. To believe life is meaningful and has purpose
2. To have a sense of community and deeper relationships
3. To be appreciated and respected
4. To be listened to and heard
5. To feel that one is growing.
6. To have practical help in developing a mature faith

The most important change the small groups bring is to shift the work of the church to the people. (Very democratic, isn’t it?). As Christians, we are saints, Ephesians 4:12 says, "equipping the saints to do the work of the ministry." The early church is an example of how the lay leaders accomplished the work of the church. Community people expect the pastor to be involved in ministry. (It is impossible for the pastor to provide all the care people need). When the laity, takes this role, the impact is greater.