Community Matters
God exists in community and all are made in his image. Therefore, we cannot get the full depth of a relationship with Christ in isolation. We are called to carry each other’s burdens and share each other’s victories. True discipleship happens when we have intentional community. Community that is dedicated to studying scripture and praying together.
Over the last thirty years or so, churches have tried implementing small group programs to foster discipleship and help build community. Some churches have done this incredibly well; some churches have struggled. At MCC we have gone through similar ups and downs. Different seasons have led some of us to have extremely active small groups where growth happened each week. Others of us, have felt frustration as it seemed like we couldn’t get connected.
So it goes with life, and with ministry, ups and downs. But, we have never lost the desire for community. Each week people come in our doors looking to connect with God and others. Each week friends gather, and bonds form through the church. So, what if we took the program of small groups and infused it with the lives you are leading. Could this blend move us to a place where as many people as possible connect in groups that don’t feel forced, are always inclusive, and intentionally discipling? We think so, and we want to reach for something new.
On August 21st, we will begin forming groups. And by we, I mean all of us. You tell us who you want to be in a group with, and we will equip the person you select as the leader. Your group will get everything they need to study and pray together weekly. We will check in regularly to help you navigate any issues that may come up, but we want to help you make the communities you have intentional.
Groups can form around all sorts of things. Are you connected to a group of guys who loves to play soccer? Great! Get together, play some soccer, study scripture and pray together and see what God does in your midst. Do you have friends from church who just love to go out to lunch each week after church? Great! Take some questions to talk about over food. Eat, hang out, study, and pray together. There will be some groups built around a common interest. Others will form around age or stage of life. And other’s still will form around availability during the week. No matter what brings you together, you can be equipped to be a small group.
Communities happen organically. Discipleship happens intentionally. So, let’s intentionally take discipleship into our organic communities.
If you don’t feel connected at all and just want to meet some new people, then we have something for you too. We will help you find the right place. In the Kingdom of God, everyone is welcome, and no one gets left out. Which is why I say again, our groups are always inclusive.
This fall when we launch these newly formed groups we will be doing something new. Something that is as old as Jesus’ first invitation to follow him. But something that is new to us. We will learn; we will adapt. And, we will get better. But, let’s do it together. Let’s keep being changed by the Gospel, and let’s do that with our friends by our side.
