Roof Removers
Watch or listen to
the full sermon here.
Preached by Pastor Mike Woodard
Follow The Valley Church
At The Valley Church, we believe in the extraordinary impact of ordinary acts of service. Our Dream Team, made up of volunteers in hospitality, kids ministry, worship, and setup, drives the church forward every Sunday. While tasks like making coffee, running cables, or welcoming guests may seem small, God can use them to create meaningful connections and transform lives. When we serve together, these seemingly ordinary tasks become extraordinary acts of love that prepare hearts for an encounter with Jesus.
God Designed Us for Community
This August, we launched our new series, Better Together, emphasizing the importance of community in a believer’s life. Scripture and science agree: humans are wired for connection. Social connection supports mental health, physical health, longevity, and overall well-being, while isolation has negative effects comparable to smoking or high blood pressure. Genesis 2:18 reminds us, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” God designed us for connection, and He encourages us to engage in community through serving, small groups, and church attendance.
Three Truths About the Power of Community
1. Community Finds a Way
Mark 2 tells the story of a paralyzed man whose friends went above and beyond to bring him to Jesus. When the house was overcrowded, they removed the roof to lower their friend into the room. Community is creative and determined, finding a way to bring people closer to God, even when obstacles arise.
2. Community Feeds or Starves Faith
The faith of the paralyzed man’s friends demonstrates the impact of surrounding yourself with people who strengthen your faith. Likewise, the Pharisees’ skepticism shows how a negative community can stifle growth. The people we choose to spend time with either feed or starve our faith. Surrounding ourselves with believers who encourage, pray, and act in love is essential for spiritual growth.
3. Community Creates Shared Experiences with God
When Jesus healed the paralyzed man, the entire house witnessed His power. Community multiplies God’s work in our lives and allows us to celebrate, learn, and grow together. Being present in church, small groups, or gatherings with fellow believers provides opportunities for shared spiritual experiences that deepen our faith.
The Everyday Power of Community
Biblical community isn’t just about one big moment; it’s about consistent presence and support. Like carbon monoxide detectors quietly protecting a home, a strong Christian community surrounds us in ordinary and extraordinary moments—celebration, mourning, or spiritual growth. Serving others and receiving support in return builds resilience, joy, and closeness to God.
Your Next Step
What’s your next step in biblical community? Join a small group, serve on the Dream Team, or simply prioritize time with believers who strengthen your faith. God has wired us for a community that finds a way, feeds faith, and creates shared experiences with Him. When we commit to being in the room and serving alongside one another, we experience life-changing growth and joy in Christ.