The Necessity of Community

Have you ever thought it would be really nice to leave it all behind and go off into the woods, or a beach, or really just anywhere you could be away from people and the problems you encounter? For me, escape is a cabin in the woods by a stream with a rocking chair on the porch, hummingbirds flittering and the only sound is a bubbling brook. That is pleasant for a while but the truth is I, along with everyone else, was made to be with other people, to be in community.

The church is called the body of Christ (Colossians 1:24). Just as we need all the parts of our body to fully function, we are essential to one another. We need community.

Through community you can find:

Encouragement. Hebrews 10:25 says “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” We are encouraged to live for Christ in the world today as we face difficulties together.

Love. In John 15:12 Jesus says that we are to love one another as He has loved us. We find a sense of belonging and acceptance being with other believers.

Wisdom. There are multiple examples of more mature believers teaching younger believers in the Bible. We can all learn from each other. We get insight on scripture and can make sure we are staying on track in our thinking by discussing our ideas and questions.

Better Health. It is also important to note the effect that being in a community plays on our health. Research indicates that the quality of our social relationships also affects a range of health outcomes, such as our mental health, physical health, and mortality risk.

God made us to be in community, to have a “we” to turn to for support and encouragement, to help us through the difficult times and that will rejoice with us in the good times. Community is necessary!