← Discipleship
ETS ACADEMY · LESSON 4
Christian Community
Teaching points
- Community is not optional — it is the environment where growth happens. You cannot mature in isolation.
- Small groups are not programs — they are the primary context for discipleship, accountability, and care.
- Authentic community requires vulnerability. You cannot be known if you never let anyone see you.
- Iron sharpens iron — but only if there is friction. Community is not comfortable — it is formative.
- The early church devoted themselves to fellowship (koinonia) — a shared life, not just shared meals.
Read in Scripture
- Acts 2:42-47
- Hebrews 10:24-25
- Proverbs 27:17
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
- Romans 12:10
Reflect
- Do you have a community that truly knows you — not just your Sunday face?
- What keeps you from being vulnerable with other believers?
- How has community shaped your faith more than any sermon or book?
- Are you contributing to the health of your community, or just consuming it?
Put it into practice
- Join or commit to a small group this month.
- Share one honest struggle with a trusted believer this week.
- Pray for three people in your community by name daily.
Jesus Generation Movement Academy teaching. Sources and credits →