Dave’s Monday Blast – September 16, 2024
Before we jump into our continuing conversation from last week concerning the value of our Christian Community in general and Life Groups in particular, I wanted to encourage you to download the new Church App (if you have not done so already). With the app, you can stay current with all that is happening at AGCC this fall.
Details concerning all the following, and more, are to be discovered on the app:
The launch of WNL, Women’s Ministry’s New Fall morning study and an upcoming Bake Sale, the bi-monthly Men’s Tuesday morning study, the Grace Bible Conference, the 10:31 Experiment, opportunities for Baptism and Baby Dedication, and all that is happening with GraceTown Preschool and Academy.
Life Groups can be defined as small gatherings of like-minded followers of Jesus that get together on a regular basis for Bible study, discipleship, community building, serving others and one another.
We discovered last week that throughout Scripture we have many examples of small communities coming together to engage in Kingdom Work. This week I simply want to remind you of the reasons why this model of community is vital to fulfilling the Matthew 28 mandate of disciple making.
1. A small group (Life Group) is a place to exercise and practice biblical truths.
“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…” (Acts 2:42)
2. A small group is a place for authentic, relational community.
“…devoted themselves to … fellowship, and to sharing in meals … and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42)
“…shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.” (Acts 2:44 – 45)
“…shared their meals with great joy and generosity, all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people.” (Acts 2:46)
Men of INTENTION understand that:
a. Building community takes time. (Proverbs 17:17)
b. Honesty and vulnerability create the strongest community (1 John 4:18)
c. Community is hard work, but you are worth it. (Psalm 139:14)
d. It is never too late to start. (Ecclesiastes 4:9 – 10)
3. A small group is a place to display the power of the gospel as we serve others and one another through our small groups.
“…the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:47)
