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Ever watch old episodes of “The Lone Ranger”? What an idyllic figure of American heroism. He was tough, independent, and never let anyone know his true identity.

It is probably not a shock to hear that God does not want us to be “Lone Ranger Christians.” No one person can exemplify the complete life of Jesus to the surrounding world. We need a circle of believers around us who go forth into the world with us. We need a group of people, a small community of believers who reach out to specific people and meet specific needs in this world as a means of sharing the grace and truth of Christ.

We believe in the value and importance of small, or community, groups. One of the key elements of our community is our ability to relationally connect to one another. We passionately value our relationship with Jesus and with one another. This is a core value. Therefore we are working hard to encourage and promote community group participation.

In over 30 years as a pastor, teacher and counselor I have witnessed amazing changes in people. What the Lord does in an individual’s life is miraculous. The agents of this change come by way of the Holy Spirit, God’s Word and through people. God uses people as instruments in His hands.

The main tool God uses in bringing about support, encouragement, love, care and change is through the environment of a community group. When a healthy group is functional and viable it can be a wonderful positive experience. People who start out hesitantly have been known to say that they wished they had gotten involved sooner. We are designed by God to be relational beings. We do better when we are involved with a supportive group of people. We tend to be healthier when we are connected to a community.

We are better together. I strongly urge you to follow the biblical pattern given to us by God’s word. We are all to be part of a community group beyond our immediate nuclear family system. The purpose of this letter is to communicate a passionate message: Get into a community group so you can grow in the Lord and protect the good work the Lord is doing in your life.

Together,

Pastor Steve

Greetings from Steve