Each year on Get Connected Sunday, we intentionally shift the preaching to be more topical than expository. Our topic is belonging to the body of Christ. The church has the potential to be a unique community, unlike all others.

Christian Community CAN be kingdom community.

It can give us a participation and foretaste of the kingdom of heaven, but this is not guaranteed. Some components need to be in place for this to happen. Jesus’ calling of the first disciples is instructive. In Luke 5:1-11, there are some elements of belonging worth seeking.

Teaching - Jesus taught the crowds and the disciples about the kingdom of God. It is neither obvious nor intuitive. It works differently than secular society. The Scriptures are a sure guide to learning about the kingdom of God.

Jesus - It should go without saying that kingdom communities must include the King. However, some church groups fail to welcome Jesus into their midst. When he is welcome, he comes fully in, rearranging our lives in sometimes uncomfortable ways.

Grace - Peter confesses his sin, and Jesus still accepts him. A Christian community that is honest about sin’s pervasiveness can grow into a very accepting and grace-filled community. There is no condemnation in Christ. He accepts us and sanctifies us. We expect transformation by the Cross.

Mission - Jesus gave the first disciples, and us vicariously, a new vocation as missionaries fishing for other people. We embrace God’s mission to others.

Taking It Home:  Embrace your church family. Wear a name tag. Learn others’ names. Serve on a team. Join a small group. Makes some small change this semester (maybe creating some extra margin) so that you can experience belonging and be the church. In short, Get Connected to Grace Anglican Church & Jesus.