The teaching of Jesus, received through the authors of the books of the New Testament, shows us that his church is called to be a loving, caring family. That is why community is one of the foundational values of King’s Church, and why we encourage everyone who is part of our church family to join a Life Group, if they are able to do so.
The book of Acts shows us that the first Christians were known for the way in which they cared for those who were poor and needy amongst them. Acts 2.42-47 and 4.32-37 show how important a part of their life together this was. These passages in Acts show how good they were at sharing life together. Even though our lives are so different to theirs, can we be as good at sharing life together as they were?
Actually, many of the things that the early believers did in order to share life together, happen in Life Groups in our church. Fellowship, through reading and discussing the teaching of the Bible, praying together, sometimes taking bread and wine together, remembering the sacrifice of Jesus, and just getting to know one another better, as we chat together, are all things that happen in these groups. The sharing of resources can also happen, as members seek to meet the needs of one another. There is also the opportunity to eat together, whether it is just sharing tea and coffee with biscuits, or a full meal together. Eating together can increase a sense of belonging, and this was important to the early believers as well.
In a church with a large and growing congregation, it is very difficult for any of us to know everyone well. But by being part of a Life Group, we can have a small group of people who we can know and be known by on a deeper level. We can encourage and inspire one another in our discipleship, and watch out for each other in case any of us should begin to go astray. Most of our Life Groups use WhatsApp so members can keep in touch with each other. Prayer requests and encouraging words can be posted, and practical arrangements shared.
We may not have as many material needs amongst us as they had in the early church, even though times are hard for many at the moment. However, we must remember that people can need friendship and company, as well as practical help. Loneliness is a big problem in our society today, and we can all do something to help prevent that, through being part of a Life Group. Of course, being a part of a group is just as important because of what we can give to others, as it is for having our own needs met.
Even those amongst us who find it hard to attend midweek meetings, for work or family reasons, can still benefit from being in a Life Group, as was suggested when we re-launched Life Groups in early 2023. People in this position can still keep in touch through the WhatsApp group, be prayed for and pray for others in the group.
I believe that God is always urging us onwards. He wants to strengthen many parts of our life together, and to help us to focus on what is most important. This will be vital if we are to continue to grow. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could say with confidence that there are no needy people amongst us? Strong Life Groups are one of the keys to this.
We are going to need more Life Groups in order to accommodate our growth. This will require more group leaders. If you sense that God may be calling you to this, please speak to one of the elders.
Tony Colthup