NEED FOR CREATING COMMUNITY…

Last Sabbath evening concerned members from both churches came together to pray and plan for evangelism, and as the discussion unfolded an urgent plea was heard to build more community within. In very specific terms people were sharing their desire to see small groups functioning, to see groups for spiritual mentoring taking place, to see affinity groups for friendship and relationship.
We live in time of transition, uncertainty toward the future places even greater urgency for support groups, and for more leadership.
Even as the leaders of our churches pleading and advocating for house churches, and community groups I want to state upfront – there are fears that prevent this from happening.
Let me name just a few, and offer some perspectives.
1. Fear of change – unknown is intimidating. But, if God is showing you to do this, He will make it work for the best. Growth requires a change!
2. Fear of failure – success is never guaranteed, pride is always a factor here, people don’t want to be seen as incapable, and will try only what they know they can do already. But, God does not lead into failure. If he is leading – he guarantees success!
3. Fear of inadequacy – our personal insecurities, not being sure people want you. Here is a perspective – you are not offering you, but Jesus. You are not the saviour, He is. People don’t need your word as much as they need His word, through you. So, be connected with God, and His sufficiency!
4. Fear of criticism – rejection is painful, we want to be appreciated and accepted. Remember – satan is main accuser. To not do what we know God wants is to let the enemy win. Let God handle your reputation!
5. Fear of others – we avoid conflicts or those who cause it. By ourselves we don’t have to deal with others influence, it’s safe. We don’t want to be vulnerable, giving ammunition against ourselves into hands of other people. Again, do not put other people above God, don’t let a man prevent you from doing God’s Will.
6. Fear of lack of time – everyone is already stretched without margin and time constraints are already tiring you. But. when we follow God’s plan – he will free our time, help us prioritize, and drop unnecessary distractions.
7. Fear of the past – looking at the past as a blueprint for future, “we’ve never done this before” – is typical for most people. But, we are told to forget the past (Philippians 3:13) and move into the future.
Listen to God’s Call in your life – go and build the community!