Why Joining a Group in the New Year Will Transform Your Life
As we step into a new year, it's natural to set goals and resolutions. Many of us aim to grow spiritually, deepen our relationships, or find ways to serve others. But have you considered that joining a Life Group could be the key to fulfilling all of these goals?
At Coram Deo Church, we believe in the power of community because we are, first and foremost, a family purchased by Christ’s blood. Jesus didn’t just save us individually — He brought us into His family. Through His death and resurrection, we’ve been reconciled not only to God but also to one another. This truth has profound implications for how we live out our faith.
The New Testament is filled with "one another" commands—love one another, bear one another's burdens, and forgive one another. These aren’t suggestions; they’re the blueprint for life in God’s family. Life Groups are one of the best ways to live out this calling.
1. We Grow Together in Christlikeness
Discipleship is about becoming more like Jesus. But this transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in the context of community. In Life Groups, we study God’s Word together, pray for one another, and challenge each other to grow.
When we gather with others, we see our blind spots more clearly. We learn to apply Scripture to real-life situations. And we discover our spiritual gifts—those unique abilities God has given each of us to serve His body.
As Ephesians 4:12-13 reminds us, these gifts are meant "to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God."
2. We Experience the Love of Christ
Jesus said, “By this, all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). The love we show within the church is our greatest testimony to the world.
In a Life Group, you’ll experience this love firsthand. It’s a place where you can share your burdens, celebrate your victories, and simply do life together. Whether it’s a meal shared after a tough week or a prayer lifted in your darkest hour, Life Groups embody what it means to love one another as Christ has loved us.
3. We Serve One Another with Joy
God has given each of us unique gifts to serve His church. Often, it’s in community that these gifts are discovered and developed. A Life Group provides opportunities to serve and be served, whether by offering a word of encouragement, providing practical help, or simply showing up when someone needs a listening ear.
As 1 Peter 4:10 says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace.”
4. We Welcome Others Into God’s Family
Life Groups aren’t just for those who are already part of the church. They’re a powerful tool for mission. By inviting others into your group, you give them a glimpse of God’s love in action. You show them that the church isn’t just a building; it’s a family.
As you live out the gospel in community, you’ll find countless opportunities to share the hope of Christ with others.
The Challenge for This New Year
If you’re not yet part of a Life Group, consider making this your next step in the new year. It’s a place where you can grow, love, serve, and reach others. It’s where you’ll experience the fullness of what it means to be part of God’s family.
And if you’re already in a group, consider how you can invest more deeply in your community this year. How can you use your gifts to build up the body? How can you love others with the same selfless, sacrificial love that Christ has shown you?
As we step into this new season, let’s commit to living out the “one another” commands together. Let’s be a church that reflects the love of Jesus to one another and to the world.
Your Life Group is waiting. Will you join us?