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This Is Us (Relationships)

We Value Relationships: Life is Better When Experienced Together!

Speaker: Doctor Brent Simpson

The Power of Community in Faith

As an introvert by nature, I’ve often found solace in solitude. Yet, when I reflect on my life, I realize how much richer it has become because of the relationships I’ve nurtured within our community. Life truly is better when experienced together. This sentiment is powerfully illustrated in the story of Jesus healing the paralyzed man in Luke 5:17-26, demonstrating that our relationships can lead us to profound experiences and miracles.

1. Don’t Let a Full House Get in the Way of a Fulfilled Mission

In Luke 5, we find Jesus teaching in a house so crowded that there’s no room left, not even outside the door. Amid this scene, a group of friends carries a paralyzed man on a mat, determined to bring him to Jesus. Unable to get through the crowd, they make a hole in the roof and lower their friend right in front of Jesus. Witnessing their faith, Jesus not only heals the man but forgives his sins, leaving the onlookers in awe of the miraculous event.

Jesus Always Attracted a Crowd

Jesus’ presence always drew people. It was a sold-out show every time He spoke.

  1. When Jesus is in the House, Miracles Begin to Happen!
  2. Crowds Will Come When Jesus Shows Up!
  3. It’s a Principle of the Kingdom:

Jesus said, “If I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (John 12:32). So, don’t be surprised when the crowds come.

2. ARISE is a Community of Carriers

At ARISE, we aim to be a community of carriers. This means supporting each other, confronting problems with love, and bringing each other closer to Jesus. It involves moving beyond superficial interactions to form deep, meaningful connections.

The Role of Relationships in Our Lives

Our society has increasingly embraced radical individualism, which often leads to isolation and loneliness. However, the Bible emphasizes the importance of community and relationships. The phrase “one another” appears 59 times in the New Testament, underscoring our need for mutual support and love.

Types of People in Churches

The Importance of Being a Carrier

  1. A Carrier Doesn’t Ignore Problems: True friends address issues directly and help each other grow.
  2. A Carrier Brings You to Jesus: We are called to guide each other to Jesus, not just to church or leaders.
  3. A Carrier Goes the Extra Mile: They are willing to go to great lengths, even ripping off the roof, to help you.
  4. A Carrier Will Increase Your Faith: 

You Need to Be Around People of Faith: Surround yourself with those who believe the best in you. People who challenge you and increase your faith.

You Need to Have Faith for Others: The friends’ faith, not the paralyzed man’s, led to his breakthrough.

Your Friends Will Take You Places You Can’t Go Alone: They carry you to new heights.

3. Who You Let Carry You Will Determine Where You Go in Life

The people we surround ourselves with can significantly influence our paths. Good friends will elevate us, support us in faith, and help us grow spiritually. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose friends who reflect where you want to go in life, not where you’ve been.

Conclusion

We are called to be good friends and carriers who bring others to Christ. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also fulfill our mission as followers of Jesus. Let’s get serious about carrying others to Jesus and building a community that values relationships deeply.

Scriptures Referenced

Reflection Questions

  1. How have your relationships within the community impacted your spiritual journey?
  2. In what ways can you become a “carrier” who brings others to Jesus?
  3. What steps can you take to move beyond superficial relationships to form deeper connections within your church community?

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