Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
– James 5:16
We are created in the image of God to be in community. Put simply: we’re not meant to do life alone! We know this is true because Jesus lived his years of ministry in community. He had 12 disciples—basically his best friends, that he travelled with to share his story. Community is also modeled for us in the Trinity—the relational connection between God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. God is relational by nature (which is why he seeks a relationship with you), His son Jesus is relational (which is why he’s constantly surrounded by his disciples), and you are relational (which is why you desire close friendship and connection)!
What’s found inside of relationships through your faith journey is freedom. We believe you go to God for forgiveness and to His people for life-changing freedom. Meaning, you confess your sins to God to receive forgiveness, and you share your struggles (past and present) with His people to heal and move forward. You can find His people that you share these details of your life with through Groups at 12Stone or already established relationships. Think of it as your inner circle of friends that keep you accountable to your walk with Jesus!
We believe Groups are the way to finding community and freedom. Small Groups are the people you do life with. They’re there for you when you need them, and you’re there for them when they need you. Find Freedom is the pillar of healing.
Spend time answering these questions today. Write your responses in a journal or talk through them with someone your trust!
- Who is part of your community? Who can you turn to for freedom?
- What has been your experience with small groups? If you don’t have any, what type of group would you like to be in?
- Why is community important to your faith journey?
Learn more about community and Godly relationships:
12Stone: Everybody Can Find Freedom
Made for Friendship: The Relationship that Halves Our Sorrows & Doubles Our Joys
