The Importance of Community in the Church

Nate and I began going to our church a little over 2 years ago. From the very first Sunday, I immediately feel in love with the worship and the pastor. I felt convicted from that very first message and was stunned at the truth revealed in that service. We continued to go to that church week after week and I felt my cup being filled with the Word each Sunday we attended. We didn't know very many people (other than the students who went to the college with us that attended our church) so we didn't have much connection. Soon we became part of the Welcome team and each Sunday we stand at the doors and hand out announcements packets. As an effort to connect more in the church this became very important to our Sunday morning routine. We love seeing each face walk in the doors and being able to greet them and welcome them to church. As much as we enjoy greeting every Sunday, we still felt like we were not truly connecting to our church other than face value.
Our church has a program called connect (much like a small group, bible study, or life group that other churches have). We made the decision to join a group last September and currently meet with young married couples. Together we share life and break open the Word. I cannot stress how much this group has changed my spiritual journey. I see now more than ever the importance of these times. The time we have, just spent in prayer for one another moves mountains. I believe there are several reasons why I would encourage anyone to join a small group or bible study.
1. It is essential to our growth in the church to have these connections.

Attending church is a Wonderful thing, but is all too often taken at face value. It is vital to our spiritual growth to connect with other believers in a small setting. 

2. The purpose of small groups is to expand disciples.

As a small group ministry, our goal is to build up leaders in the church. We meet with the intention of growing into spiritual leaders and eventually having our group dissipate and beginning new groups as leaders. The point of a small group is simple- to grow! Growth is so evident in these times. Our discussions help us grow as friends, grow as a family, and essentially grow in our faith.

3. Prayer is a powerful thing 

How often are we asked to pray for someone and agree, yet postpone or forget to pray for them. I heard a very convicting message this week at chapel about how we as Christians lack in our promises to pray for one another. We can all admit to this. The great thing about small groups is that prayer is such a focus. We share life together- both struggles and joys and prayer fervently there for one another. There is no such comforting feeling than hearing others lift your needs up to The Lord. And it doesn't stop there. Many many times we email and text one another with prayer updates and questions. It is an amazing love between our group, and to think of all who could be missing out on such a love burns my heart.

4. Accountability is vital to our faith journey

We as the church and as individuals need to be held accountable in our walk. Being a part of a small group makes it easier to be held accountable and allows us the opportunity to help others stay accountable as well. Being in a small group with various ages is great because we get to Learn from one another and can connect through our life journeys. It is easy to find connections in life and receive help and encouragement during troubling times.