What role does community play in accomplishing God’s work, as seen in 1 Kings 15:22? The Snapshot of 1 Kings 15:22 “Then King Asa summoned all Judah—no one was exempt—and they carried away the stones…” (1 Kings 15:22) Community Lessons from Asa’s Example • Everyone was mobilized—no spectators. • The task was both defensive (removing the enemy’s fortress) and constructive (re-using material to fortify God’s people). • Shared labor multiplied speed and strength; one king’s command became an entire nation’s action. • Obedience was immediate, illustrating trust in God-ordained leadership. • Resources were redistributed for kingdom purposes, not personal gain. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Exodus 35-36: every skill and gift poured into building the tabernacle. • Nehemiah 3-4: families side by side on the wall, “the people had a mind to work.” • Acts 2:44-47: believers held possessions in common and advanced the gospel together. • 1 Corinthians 12:12-26: many members, one body, each indispensable. • Ephesians 4:16: the body “grows as each part does its work,” producing maturity. • Philippians 1:27: standing “firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith.” Living It Out Together Today • Show up—be present when God calls the whole church, not just the gifted few. • Offer your specific skills, time, and resources; God recycles them for kingdom impact. • Support godly leaders who direct corporate efforts against spiritual strongholds. • Celebrate collective victories; what once threatened becomes material for growth. • Remember that unity is itself a testimony—when the world sees believers working shoulder to shoulder, God’s character is displayed. |
    |