The idea behind the word community in reference to the Church is critical for understanding how we are to live and function as a body. The New Testament clearly describes for us the importance of community in the book of Acts. The Church in Jerusalem made a clear and counter-cultural statement as they stood in solidarity with one another. Acts 4:32-35 gives us several elements of what it means to live in the Community.
“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.”
As can be seen in this passage of Scripture, community life encompasses four crucial elements. If we are to have true community, we must have:
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Oneness in the Community
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Generosity in the Community
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Christ in the Community
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Equality in the Community
More to come tomorrow! (Taken from Book, Community Children)
Development and Justice 