In this series, we have been exploring identity. In Part 3, we look at the significance of community (who and what we have around us). Healthy community can bring connection, joy and a fresh perspective. And it is an essential space for discovering authentic self alongside others.
Community can influence and transform your identity. God designed us for community - Jesus modeled it. If you are curious about what a healthy community looks like - check out our available groups: https://www.npaustin.com/groups.
Have questions or need help finding your community? We’re here to help: [email protected].
SCRIPTURE:
They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” - Mark 2:2-5
But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!” Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? - Mark 2:6-9
GROUP QUESTIONS - Part 4:
Who are the people that "carry you" in life? Who sees your value and worth even when you don't feel like you have much to offer? How can you be that person for someone else?
Do you tend to see yourself clearly, or do you struggle with negative self-talk and an "inner critic"? What would it look like to have people around you that see you better than you see yourself?
How have past church or spiritual community relationships impacted you, either positively or negatively? What lessons can you take from both the good and bad experiences?
When was the last time you experienced the "joy of community" - getting to celebrate growth and transformation in another person's life? What holds you back from experiencing that more often?
Do you currently have deep, transformative spiritual friendships? What might it look like for you to pursue those types of relationships more intentionally?
How might dusting off your "mat" - sharing more openly about where God has brought you from - help renew your perspective and allow you to experience Jesus in a fresh way? What would it look like to do that this week?
How have you seen relationships directly influence and shape someone's identity, values and direction in life? How might surrounding yourself with certain people impact your own growth?
What stood out to you most from the message? What is one application you want to make in your relationships as a result?
MUSIC:
House Of The Lord - Phil Wickham
Just As Good - Chris Renzema
Great Are You Lord - All Sons & Daughters
NEXT STEPS: Wherever you are, we want to help you discover what’s next.
https://www.npaustin.com/whatsnext
Not sure where to start? We’re here to help! Email: [email protected]
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ABOUT US:
We believe that for too long, the church has been known for what it’s against. We want to be known for what we’re FOR – our community, healthy relationships, the next generation, and people discovering a God who loves them.
Vision: To inspire people to follow Jesus.
Mission: Make Jesus relevant for everyone in Greater Austin.
Thank you for giving to support our vision and mission: https://www.npaustin.com/give
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