8.1 Devotional Discussion: A Place to Belong (SW)

What comes to your mind when you think of the word church? The building? A location? We were created for community and fellowship with God. We have been formed for a family. We belong to God.

Do you struggle with feeling alone and isolated? Let this beautiful truth settle in your mind, that in Christ, you are part of the family of God. This fact should not be casually ignored. This fact is not inconsequential.

Added to that is that not only do you need the church (the body of Christ), but the church needs you. You are part of Gods mission in this world.

In this study, we will learn that the Christian life is more than just a commitment to Jesus; it includes a commitment to each other.

POINT TO PONDER:

I am called to belong, not just believe.

Scripture

Romans 12:5 NIV84

so in Christ, we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

Ephesians 2:19 NIV84

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens but fellow citizens with Gods people and members of Gods household,

1 Timothy 3:15 NIV84

if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in Gods household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.

Listen to a message on this chapter: http://www.purposedriven.com/day17

1. Respond to the following discussion questions:
2. What truth from this study especially encouraged your heart?
3. Share something you did not previously know that you learned in this study.
4. Does your level of involvement in your local church demonstrate that you love and are committed to Gods family? (Yes)
5. What do you intend to do in light of what you have learned?
6. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.
7. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.
8. Provide clarification to classmates questions and provide insight into the discussion.
9. Incorporate concepts and demonstrate your understanding of the resources required for the assignment (journals, videos, texts, etc.) and use conventions of academic writing, including essay-style paragraphs (topic sentence, supporting sentences and summary or final statement), proper grammar, correct use of spelling and punctuation and use of currently required APA writing standards including formatting using indented paragraphs, same font throughout, proper headings, references at the bottom as needed and APA style, including proper use of in-text citations, concise language, paraphrasing and active voice in first or third person