How can we apply the concept of community support in our church today? Scripture Snapshot “besides their male and female servants, who numbered 7,337; and they had 245 male and female singers.” ‑ Nehemiah 7:67 Seeing Community in the Census • Every individual is counted—leaders, servants, singers. • Roles are different, value is equal. • Resources (people, gifts, time) are identified so they can be mobilized. Timeless Principles • Inclusion: no one is overlooked. • Stewardship: gifts and abilities are cataloged for ministry use. • Mutual dependence: each role supports the whole. • Celebration of diversity: even the artists (singers) are necessary. Practical Steps for the Local Church 1. Map the Body – Create an updated roster of members, attenders, volunteers, and their gifts. – Respect privacy, yet know the flock (Proverbs 27:23). 2. Affirm Every Role – Publicly recognize behind-the-scenes servants (Romans 12:10). – Encourage creative ministries—music, tech, hospitality. 3. Build Support Networks – Pair seasoned believers with newer ones (Titus 2:3-5). – Form care teams for widows, single parents, the sick (James 1:27). 4. Share Resources – Maintain a benevolence fund (Acts 4:34-35). – Promote skill-sharing: carpenters help with repairs, teachers tutor students. 5. Gather Regularly – Prioritize face-to-face fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Use small groups to deepen accountability. 6. Sing Together – Follow the pattern of the 245 singers: corporate worship unites hearts (Ephesians 5:19). Supporting Passages • Acts 2:44-47—early believers pooled possessions and met needs. • Galatians 6:2—“Carry one another’s burdens…” • Romans 12:4-5—many members, one body. • 1 Corinthians 12:12-26—indispensable parts, honorable and hidden alike. Living It Out Identify your God-given place in the “census,” step into service, and actively uphold others, so the whole congregation flourishes and Christ is glorified. |
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