20 Traits of Biblical Community

20 Traits of Biblical Community

According to Philippians, biblical community is characterized by . . .

1. A foundation in the good news of Christ’s death and resurrection on our behalf, making us partners together in the gospel (1:5)
2. Dependence on Christ’s ongoing “good work” in us that will endure until Christ returns (1:6)
3. Grace, as we each recognize our need for grace from the Lord and, in turn, extend grace toward one another (1:7-8)
4. Love for each other that is increasing as we each increase in our experience of God’s love toward us through Christ (1:9)
5. Increasing maturity as we learn to value the excellency and supremacy of Christ above all other things, resulting in “the fruit of righteousness” in our lives (1:10-11)
6. Unity in Christ, despite our differences of background, preferences, etc. (1:27)
7. Courage to remain committed to Christ in the face of cultural pressures (1:28)
8. Suffering as a result of following Christ (1:29)
9. Humility in placing the interests of others ahead of our own self-interest (2:3-4)
10. The paradox of working out our salvation as God works it out in us (2:12-13)
11. Not grumbling, disputing, or complaining about one another (2:14)
12. Taking joy in the opportunity to live sacrificially for one another (2:17-18)
13. Rejecting the “rat race” of placing our value, worth, and identity in worldly achievements, accomplishments, and credentials (3:4-7)
14. Running the eternal race together of seeking to know Christ above all else     (3:8-11)
15. Rejoicing in the Lord in all things (4:4-5)
16. Praying, instead of worrying (4:6-7)
17. Intentionally choosing to think about things that are excellent and praiseworthy (4:8)
18. Practicing the Christian life by learning from others (4:9)
19. Peace from the Lord that surpasses understanding (4:7)
20. Contentment that comes from Christ, and not our circumstances (4:12-13)