What is Community?

There is so much more to community than simply attending organized gatherings. While we live our lives in response to God for the benefit of others, we are still living in the ordinary moments, the day to day.

That is where Jesus is — in the ordinary moments.

Being near one another does not guarantee community. Christian community is about Jesus being at the center, transforming us together. Acknowledging His presence will radically change how we treat each other, love each other, and serve each other.

GET IN A GROUP

We spent this year's Lenten season reading through the Gospel of John as a church. These videos, along with the discussion guides below, can be used to help you facilitate a group conversation throughout the year!

Discussion Guides:

Week 1: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Week 2: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Week 3: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Week 4: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Week 5: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Week 6: (ADULT GUIDE) (FAMILY GUIDE)

Looking for a group with which to connect? Just click to FIND A GROUP and check Community Groups (small groups). If you'd like to start your own group, that's easy, too — just click to FORM A GROUP!

 

PRACTICAL STEPS TO BUILDING COMMUNITY

1. Find or form a group. Whether it be a community (like those mentioned above), affinity, topical or support group, we want to help you do life together. Several open groups are currently listed on our groups and ministries pages and Adult Equipping Director, Barb Olsen, can help you get connected with others or begin your own. Just drop her an email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)!

2. Tell one other person this powerful truth: Jesus is here. Try it and see what happens. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus states that "for where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."

3. Think about the people with whom you are CURRENTLY doing life. Whether it is your family, friends or co-workers, consider how you can be more intentional about responding to God TOGETHER for the benefit of others.

4. Connect with others at Northland and within the local community by serving others, attending a class or by reaching out to those sitting around you during a worship service on-site or online!

5. Share your story. Connection often comes through shared experience and your story matters — someone needs to hear it. Share online, over coffee or within your group.

6. Join us online. Engage your Northland friends and family on Facebook, Twitter or for online worship.