God is a god of community. He exists in the trinity; God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14). It is out of the trinity and in His image that mankind was created (Genesis 1:27). We exist to belong to community and created for good works.
It is a biblical norm for people to live in community. God made Eve as the partner to Adam (Genesis 2:18) and Abraham was given Israel as his people (Genesis 12:2). Relationships are key to a Christian community. Community is not a human invention, instead a divine reality.
Mankind did not create themselves. We are God’s creation. He designed us and we belong to Him (Psalm 100).
Mankind was created in relationship with God. Adam walked with God. Mankind’s fall brought separation and now we crave a sense of belonging. We search for meaningful relationships and a way to fill the void which the original union with God satisfied. True belonging comes from beyond people and places and truly knowing Christ. He unconditionally accepts us (Ephesians 2:8-9).
A Christian community seeks to welcome all people as Christ has set the example for us (1 John 4:19). Being created by God, made right through Christ, and because of the grace shown to us, we are called to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
Paul Valese
