Biblical Community
Biblical Basis for Community Relationships
"A community by definition is a group of people living together who share a common way of life which is expressed in shared beliefs, goals, values, purpose, responsibilities, and communication. Inherent in this common way of life is a set of principles and derived customs which characterize the distinctiveness of such a community."
A distinguishing mark of a Christian community is that its members commit to a set of basic principles which are considered essential to maintain the spirit and health of the community. At Somerset Christian College, the foundation of our community is relationships with God and others as expressed in the Great Commission and the Greatest Commandment:
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:18)
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind . . . . And . . . you shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 22:37-40)
We have identified the following specific expressions of love as being among the most desirable in our relationships and our community:
Fruit of the Spirit
Scripture teaches that certain attributes are available to individuals through the Holy Spirit. These attributes include:
"Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22 24).
These "fruit of the Spirit" are foundational to the health of our community and to be sought, encouraged and demonstrated in our relationships. In contrast to encouraging these positive attributes of the heart, Scripture condemns attitudes such as greed, jealousy, pride, prejudice, and hatred. Although these attitudes are sometimes difficult to discern, they can hinder relationships with God and others and lead to unacceptable behavior.
Encouragement
We expect each member of the community to strive consciously to maintain relationships that support, encourage, and help others.
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (Romans 15:1-2).
Mutuality and Patience
Because of our humanness, difficulties in relationships can occur. In such cases, we are to respond as the Scripture states:
“...clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another” (Colossians 3:12).
Burden Bearing
We are responsible to come alongside those experiencing grief, discouragement, illness, tragedy, or other personal trial. Expressions of bearing one another's burdens include comfort, encouragement, consolation, and intercession.
“Brethren, if someone is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 5:1-2).
Speaking the Truth in Love
A community such as ours can be strengthened by speaking the truth to each other with love. Problems in relationships and behavior can be resolved constructively by confronting one another in an appropriate spirit. If the welfare of the one being confronted is paramount and if the confronter is acting in love, the process can produce growth.
“…speaking the truth in love, [we] may grow up into all things into he who is the head – Christ…” Ephesians 4:15
Reconciliation, Redemption, and Restoration
Healing broken relationships is necessary for a healthy community. When relationships have been harmed, regardless of the reason, individuals are expected to reach out to one another, to forgive one another, to restore relationships and to make restitution.
“. . .and He (Christ) has given us the ministry of reconciliation... and He has committed to us the message of reconciliation” (II Corinthians 5:18 19).
Implementing the above expressions of love in relationships requires continual effort and sensitivity to others. Relationships of this quality enrich our lives, honor God, and assist in meeting the goals of the college.