By Josh Bundy
Introduction: The Rhythm of Discipleship
Well, this month we have been looking at a series of topics that are related because they’re part of our rhythms of discipleship. And so they don’t all come from the same texts of Scripture, but they have to do with how we practice the way with Jesus.
And today our theme is Jesus called us together. You never know what God might do when you step into community.
Unexpected Friendships and Community
Have you ever had a two-hour best friend on a flight? Or a one-week soulmate at summer camp? For a brief moment, you needed each other. Sometimes those unexpected encounters become some of the most consequential relationships of our lives.
We’ve all had those moments, like the misfits in Guardians of the Galaxy who go from strangers to risking their lives for each other, or the kids in Stranger Things who rally around Eleven. Isn’t it wild how people you never saw coming can become essential in your life?
I remember staying awake at Bible camp, talking late into the night with friends who loved Jesus. These became my people. I even traveled across the country to stay in community with them. You never know what God might do when you step into community.
Jesus Calls the Twelve (Mark 3)
Mark chapter three shows us that Jesus was not meant to be a solo act. He called a handful of unlikely followers to be with Him and spend time with Him.
He went up on a mountain and called to him those he desired… and he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles.
Jesus had a vision: “I’m going to call you to be with me so I can also send you out to preach.” The list of apostles shows the diversity and tension of this group—fishermen, a tax collector, a zealot, and doubters. This group makes no sense, except that Jesus brought them together.
The Unlikely Group of Apostles
Matthew was a tax collector—a collaborator with Rome—sitting alongside Simon the Zealot, who likely wanted to overthrow Rome. Thomas asked hard questions. Peter was bold and impulsive. This group had no natural reason to be together. But Jesus knew they belonged together. And the same is true for us. Our church in Bucks County makes no sense outside of the fact that Jesus has called us together.
The Shortness of Time and the Power of Community
The apostles had only three years with Jesus. They didn’t know how little time they had or how much being called together would change them. For Judas, it brought his downfall. For the rest, it launched them into global mission—even martyrdom for Jesus. You never know what God might do when you step into community.
Pentecost and the Birth of the Church (Acts 2)
In Acts 2, the Spirit of God came at Pentecost. A sound like rushing wind, tongues of fire, and the apostles speaking in languages they did not know. The Spirit was forming a supernatural community. Peter preached, and thousands were cut to the heart. They asked, “What should we do to be saved?” He told them to repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The Marks of Christian Community
Those who believed devoted themselves to: - The apostles’ teaching - Fellowship - Breaking of bread - Prayer
They sold possessions to meet needs. They worshiped daily. They grew in favor with people. And God added to their number daily.
Lessons from the Early Church
Like the apostles, the early church: - Should not have understood each other (different nations, languages, customs) - Did not know how little time they had (persecution scattered them soon) - Did not realize how much being sent together would change the world
Their community was marked not by a permanent commune, but by generosity, love, and prayer. These are the marks that should define us today.
Stepping Into Community Today
Jesus still works in the same way. He calls people together and sends them out together.
If you already have community, bless God for it. If you don’t, step into community today: - Join a Starting Point lunch - Enroll in the Formed in Christ group - Consider leading a group this fall
Because you never know what God might do when you step into community.
A Call to Prayer
Jesus said, I will send the Comforter to you. That promise is for us today. Let’s pray for courage, gratitude, and open hearts as we step into the communities God is forming around us.
Lord Jesus, call us again. Knit us together by your Spirit, and use our love to show the world who you are. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
