Church Values 2024 (Part 2): Community

I. Jesus Says He Will Build His Church, He Extends Family to Spiritual Family, and Redefines Race and Nationality as the Church (Matthew 16:18, Mark 3:31-35, 1 Peter 2:9-10)

II. How Technology Has Shaped Us Relationally as a Country - From the Radio to the Smartphone

III. How the Tri-Cities Shapes Our Values of Rugged Individualism

IV. What God Says About Christian Community (Romans 12:1-18)
- Birthed from God’s mercies.
- Don’t think too highly of yourself.
- We have a communal identity.
- Use your gifts to serve the church family.
- Love without hypocrisy. Cling to what is good.
- Honor one another.

V. A Few Suggestions:
1. Join a small group in the Spring.
2. Find a way to serve on Sundays.
3. Stay 5 minutes after service to chat with people.
4. Invite someone over for dinner.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

1. How would you describe your experience with Christian community in your life? What have been your most positive or difficult experiences?
   

   
   

2. Read Matthew 16:18, Mark 3:31-35, and 1 Peter 2:9-10. What do you notice here about how God wants us to view the church community?
   

   
   

3. Pastor Josh talked about how technology (from the family radio to the smartphone) has shaped us to become more lonely and disconnected as a society. How have you seen this yourself? What have you done as a family to try and push against this?
   

   
   

4. Read Romans 12:1-18. What stands out to you from this passage as important things we should pay attention to about Christian community? What areas do you think are most difficult? In what area would you like to grow?
   

   
   

5. How do you think the Lord wants to help you grow to become a more vital, contributing member of your church family?