5 - Community

We need to encourage each other and keep each other on track.

Most likely, they are not serious and don't want to mix with those who are because such people will challenge them to become serious.

People can be truly united and on the same page.

God is present everywhere but a small group allows people to connect with each other and with God with a unity that is not possible with bigger groups.

To bear one another's burdens, we need to develop a level of trust that is much easier to achieve in a small group. In a small group, we can get to know each other well, develop trust and open up to each other. Then we can share one another's burdens.

Those who are genuine and those who are natural leaders can be recognised.

People can just think of themselves, act selfishly or start disagreements.

I must consider others

There will be divisions but these must not lead to arguments or cliques.

It is possible that everyone has something to contribute and if they do, they do they should be given an opportunity to do so.
Everything should be done for mutual benefit - building up.
Tongues should be allowed but must not dominate the meeting.
In a formal meeting, tongues should only be allowed if there is someone to interpret.
Prophets should be allowed to speak but people should consider the validity of the word.
Anything that leads to confusion should be rejected.

Many people = many ideas and more input.

The greater level of unity makes it easier to have serious prayer and/or Bible study.

Each one should have someone they look up to for guidance.

They should submit to trusted friends or other elders with a similar level of experience.

It means we should be ready to accept guidance from those around us. Ultimately, we are subject to God and should judge any guidance against God's Word.

Apostles are sent out to begin new ministries. They can teach us all leadership, even if we are not going to be apostles.

Prophets hear special words from God. They can teach us to hear from God and to prophesy even if we are not going to be prophets.

Evangelists are called to share the gospel publicly and lead large numbers of people to Jesus. They can teach us how to share the gospel even if it is only with our friends and family.

Shepherds are called to look after God's people. They can teach us all to help those around us even if we are not called to be pastors.

Teachers are called to teach God's people about God and the Christian life. They can teach us how to explain things to people close to us that no one else can reach even if we are not called to be teachers.

Elders are people who are in charge of God's people. They are needed to keep order.

Trustworthy people who know God's Word, can teach it and can deal with those who contradict it.

Deacons are people who perform the mundane roles among God's people so that those with more critical jobs do not need to be distracted.

People who are strong in their faith and can represent God's people in a way that brings glory and honour.

In Jesus day, the Jewish religion was corrupted by the traditions of the Pharisees and the Saducees. Jesus supported the temple and the synagogues but took issue with specific errors. We should support our churches but we should be in small groups full of people who are serious about Jesus.

They met in Nympha's house.
It was was probably a small group.
It was important to Paul.