It’s About You – But It’s Not
In a world that constantly asks, “What’s in it for me?”, it’s easy to let this mindset seep into every area of life—including our approach to Christian community. From our earliest days, culture and advertising have trained us to center our lives around our own preferences, comfort, and happiness. But the way of Jesus calls us to something radically different. Rather than viewing community as a product to consume, we are invited to see it as a place to give ourselves away for the sake of others.
Key Takeaways
– Freedom in Christ is a Call to Serve
Our freedom is not meant to be a base camp for self-indulgence, but a launching pad for sacrificial love. Christ frees us not from others, but for others, so that we can give our lives away in service. This shift from “what’s in it for me?” to “what can I give?” is the heart of true Christian community.
– Bearing One Another’s Burdens is Everyone’s Responsibility
Carrying the weight of another’s struggles is not reserved for pastors or leaders; it is the priestly calling of every believer. When we step into someone’s pain—through prayer, presence, or practical help—we fulfill the law of Christ and make the invisible love of God visible. Who’s burden are you lifting right now?
– Faith is Rekindled in Community
Our spiritual fire is vulnerable to the pressures and temptations of life, and isolation only accelerates the cooling of our faith. God’s design is that we would “stir one another up” daily, speaking life and encouragement so that no one’s heart grows cold. The simple act of showing up and exhorting others can reignite hope and passion for God.
– Spiritual Gifts are Discovered and Deployed Together
Every believer has been given a spiritual gift by the Holy Spirit, meant for the common good. These gifts are best discovered, affirmed, and put to use in the context of real relationships, where others can see and confirm God’s work in us. The church flourishes when each person brings their unique gift to the table.
– Community Requires Courage and Vulnerability
Stepping into community, especially after being hurt or feeling inadequate, takes boldness. The Holy Spirit offers the courage to press in, to trust again, and to allow ourselves to be used—even when it feels risky. Healing, growth, and the fullness of God’s design for us are found on the other side of that step of faith.
Reflection Questions
- When you think about your involvement in church or small group, is your first thought “What’s in it for me?” or “What can I give?” What would it look like to shift your mindset this week?
- Is there someone in your life or group right now whose burden you could help carry—through prayer, encouragement, or practical help? What is one step you could take this week to support them?
- Have you ever felt your faith growing cold or distant? Who has helped “stir up” your faith in the past? Is there someone you know who needs encouragement right now? How could you reach out to them?
- Do you know what your spiritual gifts are? If not, what is one way you could begin to discover or use your gifts in community? If you do know, how are you currently using them to build up others?
- Think about your week ahead. What is one specific way you can move from a “me” mentality to a “we” mentality in your family, workplace, or church community?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from Sept 21
- “God I Look To You”
- “Egypt”
- “No Other Name”
- “King Of Kings”
Listen to the songs we play on Sundays by clicking the image below to access our Spotify playlist!
