John 17

TRUE COMMUNITY OFFERS 4 BLESSINGS: 

1. We get strength for life's storms.

Ecclesiastes 4:9,10--Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!

See also John 16:33; Lev. 19:18; James 2:8

Galatians 6:2--Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

2. We receive wisdom for making important decisions.

Proverbs 15:22--Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. (See also Psalm 1)

3. We experience accountability, which is vital for spiritual growth.

Proverbs 27:17--A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

See also James 1:23-25; 1 John 1:7

4. We find acceptance that helps us repair our wounds.

Proverbs 18:24--A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

TRULY FOLLOWING CHRIST REQUIRES THAT YOU FOLLOW HIM INTO COMMUNITY: 

Evidence 1: God/Trinity

Gen. 1:26; Deut. 6:4; Matt. 18:15-20

Evidence 2: The Disciples

Mark 3

Evidence 3: Prayer

John 17

Evidence 4: Early Church

Acts 2:42-47; 5:48; 20:20

Evidence 5: NT metaphor: Church = Family

Gal. 6:10; Eph. 3:15; Heb. 2:11; 1 Peter 4:17

5 Results of Building Community by Connecting with others:

• There is emotional healing/health in just knowing you belong and are loved by somebody. Acts 2:42-47
• There is psychological and spiritual healing/health when you can share your oneness in Christ with other believers. John 17
• There is comfort and hope just knowing that you are never alone. Ex.18; Acts 6; Tit.1:5
• There are opportunities for you to grow in your fellowship of Jesus Christ by stepping up and leading others. Ex. 18
• There is strength in oneness. 1 Cor. 12; Eph. 4

*Quoted Scripture is from the New International Version except where noted.

Back to BCA Main page | Previous message