Community is defined as a feeling of fellowship with others, based on sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. This sense of unity was palpable in the early church, especially right after Pentecost. After accepting the good news, believers didn’t return to their homes to practice their faith privately. They came together to worship, study, and encourage one another. They grew together—not just in faith, but in numbers.
Why Community Matters
A common question I’ve heard throughout my life is: “Why do I have to go to church if I can worship God on my own at home and avoid the unnecessary drama?”
First, I want to say that this is a valid question—one that deserves Bible-backed answers. So, here are three reasons why worshiping as a community matters:
1. Keeping Each Other in Check
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17
When we’re part of a spiritual community, we challenge, encourage, and help one another grow in faith. We learn from different perspectives, experiences, and each other’s spiritual gifts.
2. Reflecting the Body of Christ
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” — 1 Corinthians 12:27
Every believer has a unique set of gifts and a purpose. Together, we reveal the fullness of Jesus to the world. Community displays the beauty of unity in diversity. In the body of Christ, each member is valuable and necessary.
3. Supporting One Another
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
Life can be tough, and faith journeys have their ups and downs. God designed community so we don’t have to walk alone. The Church becomes a place of testimony, prayer, support, and shared joy and grief.
Just like in any family, there will sometimes be clashes of style and perspective within the church. However, we must remember that the God who created diversity is also a God of unity. Just as a foot isn’t more important than a hand, or an ear than an eye, everyone’s presence matters in the body of Christ.
Don’t ever forget—that includes yours.
Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body.– 1 Corinthians 12:14-15
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