We are created in the image of God, who is the perfect embodiment of community. Thus, we are closer to God and our original design when we live in community. God himself is in a community of three persons in one—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who exist in perfect unity. So it is not surprising that from the beginning, God created us to be in community with one another.
“It is not good for man to be alone.” – Genesis 2:18
This passage speaks to our fundamental need to connect with others in the human community. What is striking about this statement is that God makes it before the Fall. There’s no sin yet and no disobedience; man is in perfect intimacy with God. And yet, God declares that man is alone and that it is not good.
Community is deeply grounded in the nature of God. It flows from who God is. Because he is community, he creates community. It is his gift of himself to humans. Therefore, the making of community may not be regarded as an optional decision for Christians. It is a compelling and irrevocable necessity, a binding divine mandate for all believers at all times.
Dr. Gilbert Bilezikian
One of the core values that we hold at SHBC is ‘Relationships Matter’. Throughout scripture, we see the importance of healthy, God-honouring, redemptive relationships between people and with God. One of the best ways we see the body of Christ cultivating those kinds of significant relationships is through meeting together in groups.
As a church, we desire to see our members, attendees, visitors and friends enter into relationships that matter. But life groups must be more than just about finding good people to spend some time with. Scripture gives us a glimpse into a healthy model of what a group of Christ-followers and Christ-seekers should be about.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Acts 2:42-47