Community with Insiders
Why You Can’t Grow Spiritually Without Growing Relationally
“‘A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’“ (Matthew 22:39)
When Jesus gave us the greatest commandments, the second was, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). For Christians, this love starts with our fellow believers. God designed us to grow together through authentic Christian community.
The Biblical Foundation
Scripture makes clear that spiritual growth happens in community:
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
The Core Understanding
Community is where faith becomes tangible. Since human nature tends to drift away from God, we need one another for mutual encouragement and accountability. Jesus invested deeply in community with his disciples, saying: “I no longer call you servants… Instead, I have called you friends” (John 15:15).
Mile Markers for Growing Community
Early Community: You have at least one person who knows your real struggles and hopes. You attend a group regularly and are learning to both give and receive encouragement.
Developing Community: You have multiple people speaking into different areas of your life. You’re comfortable sharing prayer requests and initiating contact with others consistently.
Maturing Community: You’re actively investing in others’ spiritual growth, can handle conflict with grace, and help create community for newcomers.
Practical Community Builders
Weekly Connections:
- Share Highs and Lows: Make this a regular practice with trusted friends
- Group Participation: Join or start a small group that meets consistently
- Accountability Partners: Meet regularly with someone sharing the real stuff
Ongoing Practices:
- Prayer: Pray regularly for specific friends by name
- Life-on-Life: Walk through major decisions and challenges together
- Celebrating Milestones: Show up for both joys and sorrows in others’ lives
Overcoming Community Challenges
“I’m too busy”: Community isn’t another commitment, it’s the context for growth. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor” (Ecclesiastes 4:9).
“I’ve been hurt before”: Start small and trust gradually. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).
Reflection Questions
- Who knows the real you: your hopes, struggles, and spiritual questions?
- Are you showing up consistently in someone else’s life?
- What prevents you from being fully known in community?