Rooted In Community
Think: God gave us gifts and talents to make a difference in the world. We should not waste energy comparing ourselves to others.
Feel: We were made for a purpose. When we follow God’s plan for our lives, we can help others and live a more enriching life.
Do: Discover the gifts God has given you. Consider ways you can use your gifts to bless your community and grow in faith. Share your faith with others.
Point #1 – Know And __________ _________ _____________
Romans 12:3–8 (NLT) — 3 Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. 4 Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, 5 so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. 6 In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. 8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
Point #2 – Love Roots Us In __________________
Romans 12:9–13 (NLT) — 9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Point #3 – We Don’t Do ____________ ___________.
Acts 2:42–47 (NLT) — 42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.
Next Step Questions:
- What kinds of gifts, talents, and skills could you leverage to serve your community and world?
- Why is humility so important to being a community of service-oriented people?
- What examples does Jesus give of loving people well?
- What is one need in your community that the church could help with?