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One of the greatest gifts of the church is the opportunity to live in community—a place where we’re called not only to believe but to belong. At our church, we embrace the core value of Loving Community, which means we’re committed to living out the “one another” commands of Scripture. These commands—such as loving, welcoming, and encouraging each other—are powerful ways we fulfill Christ’s call to be a unified, redemptive community.

Fellowship Beyond Words

The Bible calls this deep fellowship “koinonia,” a Greek word that goes beyond mere socializing. Koinonia is a fellowship that requires commitment, trust, and sacrifice, and it’s the kind of relationship Jesus demonstrated with His disciples. We’re called to practice this type of fellowship every day through genuine acts of kindness, selflessness, and support. When we commit to one another in this way, our love becomes visible, creating a community that reflects Christ’s love to everyone who enters.

What Are the “One Another” Commands?

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles emphasize ways we are to treat one another in community. Some of the key commands include:

  • Love One Another – Jesus’ greatest command is that we love each other as He has loved us (John 13:34-35). This love is sacrificial, putting others’ needs before our own.
  • Welcome One Another – Romans 15:7 reminds us to welcome each other, just as Christ has welcomed us. No matter our differences, we come together as family.
  • Encourage One Another – In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Paul calls us to “encourage and build one another up.” Encouragement offers hope and strength, especially in life’s difficult moments.
  • Bear One Another’s Burdens – Galatians 6:2 teaches us to come alongside each other in times of struggle. When we help carry each other’s burdens, we demonstrate the love of Christ in action.

Following the Example of Faithful Communities

In the early 18th century, the Moravian community in Herrnhut, Germany, faced internal division and strife. After a period of revival, they embraced the “one another” commands in a renewed way, making confession, encouragement, and accountability central to their fellowship. They established small groups to ensure no one walked through life’s struggles alone. Through this unified commitment to love, forgive, and support each other, they became one of the earliest missionary-sending communities, spreading the message of Christ’s love worldwide. Their example shows us that when we live out these commands, our community can have a profound impact on the world around us.

Why Loving Community Matters

In our church, we believe that being part of a loving community is more than a commitment—it’s a blessing. When we embrace these “one another” commands, we form deep, lasting bonds that help us grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. We experience God’s love more fully as we express it to one another, and this love extends beyond our church walls. Whether through small groups, worship, or acts of service, we’re called to be the hands and feet of Jesus to each other and to the world around us.

Becoming Part of the Family

If you’re looking for a place to belong, we invite you to experience the joy of this loving community. Membership at our church means committing to this family—walking together, growing together, and supporting each other in our faith journey. It’s a chance to move beyond attending services and to truly belong to a family that’s here for you and with you.

Are you ready to join us? Let’s journey together, embracing the “one another” commands in a way that transforms us, our church, and our community. If you’d like to learn more about becoming part of this family or joining a small group, reach out to us. There’s a place for you here.