In this sermon, Pastor Nathan Blackwell addresses the issue of loneliness and isolation that is often found in today’s society, and he brings our focus to the importance of community, especially within Christian circles. He quotes various statistics from a report by the United States Surgeon General that calls attention to the nationwide public health crisis of loneliness and isolation; he discusses the increased risks of mental health challenges and premature death associated with lack of connection, heart disease, stroke, and dementia. He points out how society promotes isolation and individualism and follows up with the importance of community which is described as sharing life with others. He mentions how people tend to be focused on their phones rather than on interacting with the people around them. From here, we learn that the solution to this loneliness and isolation is intentional, purposeful relationships with those around us.
From here, he calls on Christians to live differently by building lasting, meaningful connections with others. Using personal examples and stories to illustrate the impact of community on individuals' lives, the speaker highlights the importance of knowing and being known, loving and being loved, serving and being served, and celebrating and being celebrated as key aspects of any community. He encourages us to get serious about community, to join small groups, and to engage in meaningful relationships with others. He emphasizes that community is essential for the soul and encourages us to take the challenge of building connections and experiencing the benefits of community in our lives. By getting involved in our community, we are opening ourselves up to the possibility of meaningful, positive relationships, and we are combating the loneliness and isolation running rampant within our society today.
To get a wonderful community experience centered around God and his truths, join Cornerstone Family Church of Saint Cloud, Florida, for their Youtube livestreams on Sundays.