Building Community
In our exploration of building community, we delve into the heart of what it means to be part of the Ecclesia - the gathering of believers. Drawing from Acts 2, we see a powerful image of early Christians devoted to fellowship, breaking bread together, and sharing their lives. This serves as a reminder that God has wired us for connection, not just achievement. As we navigate our relationships, we're challenged to confront two major obstacles: selfishness and resentment. The scriptures, particularly James 4 and Galatians 5, teach us that these attitudes can destroy our connections. However, we're not left without hope. By embracing selflessness and forgiveness, we can nurture healthier, more Christ-like relationships. This message invites us to examine our hearts, asking ourselves: Are we sowing kindness or criticism? Are we responding to others as if responding to God Himself? As we wrestle with these questions, we're encouraged to seek the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome our natural tendencies and grow in love and unity.
