Sermon Tone Analysis

Why we need community

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” ().

Our final apologetic is not persuasive public rhetoric or shrewdly identifying areas of common concern with society; it is our love for one another.

Even in the twenty-first century, some opponents will turn, as early-church detractors did according to Tertullian, and say, “See how they love one another.”

1.

Our common enemies & communal defenses

-https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/community-conquers-culture

David Mathis

Enemy: The Devil

Defense: Involved community

, ,

Leaders -

Shepherd the Flock of God

communion of the saints -

5 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; communion of the saints -9-10,

Others -

While visiting family in Alaska this past summer, I asked our cousins about the best places to go hiking.

Then I asked my most important question: "What about the bears?"

I asked.

"Attacks usually happen when people go by themselves," she responded.

"That's what happened to a woman last week.

She was running alone and got caught between a cub and a momma bear."

"We don't need to go hiking while we're here...." I said.

"We are safer if we all go together," she said.

Lions somewhat less likely to attack group, BUT are known for singling off the weakest link.

The rest of the group can work to protect the weaker - easier to attack if in unison.

This enemy is roaring - easily identifiable, the others not so much

Enemy: The world

,

Air Force retirement - we take care of one another.

You adulterous people!

Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God

Defense: united, fellow-working community

Enemy: The flesh

Defense: Committed Community

2. The design of community

A. In Creation

B. In the Church

1) The Body of Christ

2) The Bride of Christ

How to Build Community

Be committed.

Not just another social/family/entertainment activity

Be intentional

Love

Cultivate an evangelism/discipleship mindset

Learn to be vulnerable.