3. Individuals with less social connection have disrupted sleep patterns, altered immune systems, more inflammation and higher levels of stress hormones.

4. One recent study found that isolation increases the risk of heart disease by 29 percent and stroke by 32 percent.

5. God, who is himself a community, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, created mankind with the intrinsic need and capacity for relationships.

6. Genesis 12:1-3
The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you.
(NLT)

7. Genesis 12:1-3
I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.
(NLT)

8. Genesis 12:1-3
I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.”
(NLT)

9. Acts 2:42-47
All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.
(NLT)

10. Acts 2:42-47
A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had.
(NLT)

11. Acts 2:42-47
They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.
(NLT)

12. Acts 2:42-47
They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—
(NLT)

13. Acts 2:42-47
all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.
(NLT)

14. They were devoted to the apostles’ teaching.

15. They were devoted to fellowship.

16. They were devoted to prayer.

17. Living in authentic Christian community was a powerful evangelistic strategy in the early church.

18. Why are we committed to community? Because community…

19. 1. Meets a basic need in human existence 2
1. Meets a basic need in human existence 2. Reflects the nature of God 3. Fulfills a creation design 4. Conforms to God’s redemptive plan

20. 5. Gives expression to our common experience 6
5. Gives expression to our common experience 6. Showcases the power and love of God 7. Draws people to faith through natural relationships

21. GROUPS
Small Groups Sunday Adult Communities Men’s Ministry Women’s Ministry Care Ministry Short-Term Teams Interest Groups

22. We are asking every group at First Free to be about four main activities:

23. 1. Growth 2. Community 3. Care 4. Service

26. Acts 2:47
…all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.
(NLT)