Shaped by the GospelSample

Gospel Shapes Our Community 

How do we know if the gospel is shaping the way we live in community with others? 

A gospel shaped community is characterised by one faith. We enjoy being in community with others who are also repenting and believing the gospel. Our posture toward community is not based on personal performance or feelings of superiority but it is based on humility and understanding our own brokenness and our need for Jesus. 

A gospel shaped community is also characterised by living as one body. We are one family in Christ. We have one Father, one Saviour, one Lord and Master and one Spirit. When we are shaped by the gospel, our posture toward community is not to keep receiving or being a spectator. Rather, we move toward community to build others up, encourage, serve and care for them. When we are in community, we don’t let others carry their burdens alone. We are not indifferent to their pain. We support others by coming alongside them. It also means that we don’t carry our burdens alone but we allow others into our lives and receive help and encouragement from them. 

And lastly, a gospel shaped community is characterised by one purpose. We are on mission with others. We have one purpose, which is to glorify Jesus with all that we have. This purpose changes how we view our resources, time, money and talents. We move from a self-centered life to a life that is defined by the purposes of God in partnership with his people. 

What is your view of gospel community? Do you move toward others with joy, humility and honesty?