God’s Desire for Holy Community By Major Frank Materu
Main Scripture Reference:
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" (Psalm 133:1, KJV)
Introduction
God's desire for His people is to live as one in Him, forming a Holy Tribal Nation where His presence is central. In our modern world, where self-centeredness and independence are glorified, it is vital to revisit God’s original plan for unity, community, and continuous fellowship. This lesson explores why God desires His people to live in continual community and how embracing this call fulfills His heart's longing.
1. The Purpose of Community
God’s vision for His people is a life of unity, reflecting His nature and purpose. The Holy Tribal Nation is not merely a physical arrangement but a spiritual reality where His people abide in Him continually.
Key Points
- Continuous Abiding in God:
- God calls His people not to visit Him occasionally but to live in Him (John 15:4). Community provides the framework for this abiding relationship.
- Fellowship and Communion:
- Through community, believers experience fellowship with one another and God, reflecting the unity of the early Church (Acts 2:42-47).
Supporting Scripture:
"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42, KJV)
2. The Danger of Independence
Independence from God’s way leads to spiritual decay and separation. From the Garden of Eden, humanity has struggled with choosing its own way over God’s will.
Key Points
- The Fall of Man:
- Eve’s decision to follow her desires instead of God’s command led to the curse of sin (Genesis 3:6-7).
- The Deception of Self-Will:
- What appears as freedom or enlightenment is often a trap set by the enemy (Proverbs 14:12).
Supporting Scripture:
"There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." (Proverbs 14:12, KJV)
3. God’s Call to Holiness and Unity
God desires His people to live as one, reflecting His holiness and character. This unity is achieved through submission to His will and living according to His Word.
Key Points
- Conformity to Christ, Not the World:
- Believers are called to be separate from worldly ways and to live as God’s holy people (Romans 12:2).
- Living to Please God:
- Our lives should align with God’s purposes, not our desires (Colossians 3:17).
Supporting Scripture:
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." (1 Peter 2:9, KJV)
4. The Blessedness of Community
When God’s people live together in unity, His presence dwells among them. This restores the communion lost in Eden and brings blessings to all.
Key Points
- God Dwelling Among His People:
- As His people live in obedience, God’s presence is manifest in their midst (Exodus 25:8).
- The Joy of Unity:
- Living in community allows believers to experience the joy and strength of God’s fellowship (Nehemiah 8:10).
Supporting Scripture:
"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." (Matthew 18:20, KJV)
Summary
God's desire for a Holy Tribal Nation is rooted in His longing for continuous communion with His people. Independence from God leads to deception and destruction, while living in unity brings blessings and restoration. Community life reflects God's eternal plan for His people to be one with Him and each other.
Conclusion
The call to community is a call to fulfill God’s heart. By living in unity and abiding in Him, believers rediscover the joy and purpose of their creation. Let us examine our lives and surrender to God’s will, rejecting the false independence promoted by the world. In community, we find not only God’s presence but also the fullness of His blessings.
Closing Scripture:
"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing." (Psalm 100:2, KJV)
Amen.
