Worshipping alongside Christians is a wonderful joy. On Sundays, we gather with fellow believers, side by side as we praise and worship our Father in heaven. Our worship is not just an individual act, but a shared experience of those who are members together of the body of Christ. In this way, we are not isolated individuals, but a community of worshippers. We are brought into deep, authentic relationships of care, love, and mutual support.
Our Growth Groups are one of the practical ways in which we live out this reality. These small groups meet regularly to cultivate deep fellowship within the church family. Gathering in circles, we study the Bible together and pray for one another, in the eager expectation that our hearts and minds will be made captive to Christ. These groups are intentional spaces where we practice the many ‘one another’ commands found throughout Scripture. We encourage one another, build each other up, comfort those who are hurting, and exercise patience in our interactions. We submit to and serve one another humbly, honour each other, teach and instruct, and exhort each other to live faithfully to Christ.
In relationship with others, we are drawn deeper into the body of Christ
This takes real commitment. It requires an investment of our time and energy. But one that is necessary if we want to walk closely with Jesus. To be a Christian is to be a member of the church family. We are both needed by others and called to meet each other’s needs. This mutual dependence reflects the heart of the gospel and God’s plan for his church.
Meeting regularly in these groups allows us to go beyond surface-level conversations and small talk. We become more able to be real about the joys and challenges in our lives. We hope that our Growth Groups become a place where we can be more open with one another. When we share a deeper connection, we can speak truth and love into different aspects of each other’s lives.
As well as getting to know others better, we also get to know Jesus better too. In relationship with others, we are drawn deeper into the body of Christ and grow to walk more closely with Jesus.
Finally, it’s enjoyable! We are going to spend eternity with our fellow believers. When the Lord renews and restores all things, earthly treasures will fade, but the relationships we cultivate with our brothers and sisters in Christ will endure forever. The new creation can begin here and now as we delight in the pleasure of loving and being loved by fellow believers.
If you have not yet joined the Partnership Course, that’s the best way to find out more about Growth Groups and to get stuck in.
