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Finding Meaning in Community
Big Idea: True community doesn’t just provide us with connection, it can help us live with meaning.
Big Question: Why does community help us live with meaning?
Main Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
I observed yet another example of something meaningless under the sun. 8 This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother, yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, “Who am I working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now?” It is all so meaningless and depressing. —Ecclesiastes 4:7-8
Why does community help us live with meaning?
1. We are created for community.
Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” —Genesis 2:18
Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, 5 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
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? —Ecclesiastes 4:9-11
Why does community help us live with meaning?
1. We are created for community.
2. We can be cared for in community.
When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. 15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. —Romans 12:13, 15
He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. —2 Corinthians 1:4
Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. —Galatians 6:2
Why does community help us live with meaning?
1. We are created for community.
2. We can be cared for in community.
3. We can conquer with the help of community.
A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. —Ecclesiastes 4:12
But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, 21 and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love. 22 And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. 23 Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. —Jude 20-23
One of the great problems with Christianity here in the United States of America, is it’s too hyper individualistic. It’s too independent. Our brand of Christianity is not totally aligned with the culture of the New Testament. —Crawford Loritts
If you have decided to follow Jesus today, we’d like to celebrate that with you and help you with some next steps. Please text Life to 63566.