Sermon: Authentic Community
Text: Ecclesiastes 4:1-12
Introduction
The reality is that the world we live in is broken, sinful, and unjust. The answer is not to develop some easier answers to the difficulties in our lives. Instead we are called to depend upon God and upon the people around us to stand through the times of trials. In this message, PC speaks on the pitfalls or obstacles against authentic community.
Discussion Questions
2. Read Ecclesiastes 4:4. What are some examples of this that you see around you? What drives you to work, produce, and succeed? Why?
3. The thing about blind spots is that you can’t see them. Do you think they are constant things in your life or do they change? Who have been helping you identify your blind spots? Who have you helped with their blind spots?
4. According to this passage in Ecclesiastes, the four things that stand in the way of true relationship and authentic community are: Jealousy, Laziness, Dissatisfaction, Busyness. Share some of the struggles you might have had with these issues. What are some ways that the group can help with overcoming these obstacles?
5. Read Ecclesiastes 4:12. What is one step you can take this week in community to overcome some of your personal obstacles towards community?
Moving Forward
When things get tough, we may tend to retreat back into ourselves. When we are hurt, we want to put up walls around us and isolate ourselves for others. We become afraid being further hurt or disappointed. However, that’s not necessarily the best solution. Instead, it is exactly during those times that we need people and community around us. And as we participate in the community, we are able to overcome the hardships through standing together with our brothers and sisters.
Meditate
If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! – Ecclesiastes 4:10
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