The Pillars of a Healthy Christian Community
Pastor Reed Sowell
In our ever-connected world, the concept of community has become something of a buzzword. But what does it really mean to be part of a community, especially a Christian one? While communities can be found in many places, from neighborhoods to online spaces, a community built on Christ is unique in its purpose, impact, and the way it transforms lives. The foundation of such a community is not just in the gathering of people, but in the shared mission, values, and love that bind them together.
This article explores the pillars of a healthy Christian community, drawing from the early church's example as found in the book of Acts. Click the link above for the full message.
What Makes a Community?
Community is often thought of as a group of people who live in close proximity to one another, share similar interests, or engage in similar activities. You might think of your neighborhood as a community or perhaps your workplace. But while these groups may offer a sense of belonging, they are fundamentally different from a community centered on Christ.
A Christian community goes beyond the surface-level connections that often define other groups. It is about being united around the person of Jesus Christ. There’s no other community where prayers can genuinely make a difference, where marriages can be restored, where children can be discipled, and where lives are transformed by the power of God. In the local church, you can find a place to come as you are, worship God, and grow together with others in faith. This kind of community is not just beneficial; it's essential for spiritual growth and life transformation.
The Pillar of Unity
Unity Defined by Christ
The first and perhaps most critical pillar of a healthy Christian community is unity. Acts 4:32 gives us a clear picture of this: "All the believers were one in heart and mind." Unity in a Christian context means that while we may come from different backgrounds, hold different opinions, or have different life experiences, we are united by something far more significant—our faith in Jesus Christ. This unity is not about uniformity or everyone thinking and acting the same way. Instead, it’s about being united in purpose and love, with Christ at the center.
Unity Does Not Mean Uniformity
It’s essential to understand that unity doesn’t require us to lose our individuality. Being one in heart and mind means that, while we may have different perspectives, our love for Christ and our commitment to His teachings supersede any differences that might otherwise divide us. Whether it’s political differences, racial or generational divides, or economic disparities, our unity in Christ allows us to embrace our differences while remaining focused on our shared mission.
A Community That Attracts and Moves
A united community not only attracts others but also creates an environment where God’s Spirit can move powerfully. As 2 Corinthians 13:11 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” A community that is united in Christ is one where peace and love abound, making it a fertile ground for spiritual growth and transformation.
Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing
In a world where it’s easy to become known for what we’re against, rather than what we’re for, it’s crucial to keep Jesus at the center of our community. When our focus is on Him, our differences become less significant, and our shared purpose becomes clearer. This kind of unity not only strengthens the community internally but also serves as a powerful witness to the world around us.
The Pillar of Authenticity
The Importance of Being Real
The second pillar of a healthy Christian community is authenticity. Authenticity is about being the truest version of yourself, acknowledging where you’re at in your spiritual journey, and inviting others into that space with you. It involves vulnerability, honesty, and a willingness to share both your struggles and your victories with others. Authenticity isn’t about complaining or constantly focusing on the negative, but it is about being real about your experiences while also embracing the truth of who God says you are.
Biblical Examples of Authenticity
One of the most powerful examples of authenticity in the Bible comes from Jesus Himself in the Garden of Gethsemane. In Matthew 26:36-38, Jesus shares His deep sorrow with His closest disciples, saying, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Jesus didn’t shy away from expressing His vulnerability, even though His disciples didn’t respond perfectly. This example teaches us that it’s okay to be authentic, even when it’s difficult, and that true community involves supporting each other through both the highs and lows of life.
Overcoming the Fear of Rejection
For many, the idea of being authentic in a community is daunting because of past experiences where honesty and vulnerability were met with rejection or misunderstanding. If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone. Even Jesus faced disappointment when His disciples fell asleep in His hour of need. However, this should not deter us from seeking authentic relationships within our community. A healthy Christian community is one where vulnerability is met with love, prayer, and support, not judgment or exclusion.
Creating a Safe Space
At its best, a Christian community should be a safe space where people can be themselves, share their struggles, and find encouragement. James 5:13-16 outlines what this looks like in practice: “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” In a community where authenticity is valued, people feel free to share their joys and sorrows, knowing they will be met with compassion and support.
The Pillar of Stewardship
Stewarding the Mission Together
The final pillar of a healthy Christian community is stewardship. Stewardship in this context means taking collective responsibility for the mission and health of the community. The church is not just a place to attend once a week; it’s a living, breathing body of believers who are called to work together to fulfill God’s mission. This involves using our unique gifts and talents to serve one another and to reach out to those who do not yet know Christ.
The Church as a Living Body
1 Peter 4:8-10 provides a clear mandate for stewardship within the church: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” The church is not just the responsibility of its leaders; it is a collective mission that we all share. Each member has a role to play, and when we work together, we can accomplish far more than we could alone.
The Role of Every Believer
For the church to thrive and fulfill its mission, it needs the active participation of every believer. Whether it’s through serving on a Sunday morning, leading a small group, or simply being a welcoming presence, everyone has something valuable to contribute. Stewardship is not just about managing resources; it’s about investing in the lives of others and helping to build a community where people can encounter the love of Christ.
Beyond Sunday Morning
Stewardship goes beyond what happens on Sunday mornings. It’s about living out our faith in every area of our lives and being intentional about how we use our time, talents, and resources for God’s glory. When we approach stewardship with this mindset, we become co-laborers in God’s kingdom, working together to see His will done on earth as it is in heaven.
Building a Community That Lasts
As we consider these three pillars—unity, authenticity, and stewardship—it’s clear that a healthy Christian community is one that is intentional, loving, and committed to living out the gospel together. Such a community doesn’t just happen; it requires effort, grace, and a shared commitment to keeping Christ at the center of everything we do. By embracing these principles, we can build a community that not only sustains us but also draws others into the life-changing love of Jesus.
Further Reading
"Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer - A classic exploration of Christian community and how it shapes our lives. Read more here
"The Gospel Comes with a House Key" by Rosaria Butterfield - A book that challenges readers to practice radical hospitality as a way to live out the gospel. Read more here
Other Links
Want to hear more? Check out last week’s message titled, "Live in Your Purpose" by Pastor Victoria Sowell. Watch on YouTube
Looking for more resources? Visit our resources page for Bible studies, sermons, and more. View Church Resources