Biblical Answer

The Importance of Community in the Christian Life

A Focus of Interest Outside Oneself

A community or person needs a focus of interest outside itself to flourish. In the context of the Christian life, this focus of interest is the local Christian community. As David deSilva notes, "the Christian should be part of the local Christian community and be committed to sharing in its worship and witness, however imperfect it may be" (deSilva, p. 5). This community provides a sense of belonging and identity, and it is through this community that we are encouraged to grow in our faith.

Spiritual Formation and Growth

The Christian community is like an incubator for our spiritual formation. Long-term interpersonal relationships are the crucible of genuine progress in the Christian life (Hellerman). Through our involvement in community activities, such as prayer, acts of mercy, and Bible study, we are able to grow in our knowledge of Scripture and its wisdom. This growth in turn enables us to develop wholesome relationships with others, which is a key aspect of the biblical idea of peace (deSilva). By becoming a part of the spiritual community, we are forced beyond reflection to action, and a new identity manifests itself in a new outlook on life.

A New Identity and Outlook on Life

Becoming a part of the spiritual community requires a new identity and outlook on life. As David deSilva notes, "becoming a part of the spiritual community forces us beyond reflection to action" (deSilva). This new identity and outlook on life are rooted in a shared reality, namely our accountability to the same Lord, Jesus who is ruler of the kings of the earth and the firstborn from the dead (Colossians 1:5). Through our involvement in the Christian community, we are able to enter the world of others in a new way, serving the poor, attending worship, and engaging in Bible study and fellowship groups. This is a key aspect of living out our faith in the world. As the Bible notes, "there were three thousand on that day whose hearts were moved by the Word of God, who put their trust in Christ" (Acts 2:41). Through our involvement in the Christian community, we are able to experience a similar transformation and growth in our faith.