In the biblical context, the concept of community is deeply rooted in the nature of God and His relationship with humanity. From the very beginning, God designed humans to live in community. In Genesis 2:18, God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper." This foundational statement underscores the importance of relationships and community in God's creation.

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of community life among the Israelites. The nation of Israel itself was a community chosen by God to be His people, as seen in Deuteronomy 7:6: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth." The Israelites were called to live according to God's laws, which included provisions for justice, care for the poor, and communal worship, as outlined in the Mosaic Law.

In the New Testament, the concept of community is further developed through the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ. Jesus emphasized love and unity among His followers, as seen in John 13:34-35: "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." The early church exemplified this community spirit, as described in Acts 2:42-47, where believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, sharing their possessions and caring for one another's needs.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the nature of Christian community in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Paul uses the metaphor of the body to describe the church, emphasizing the interdependence of its members and the importance of each individual's gifts for the common good. He writes, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it" (1 Corinthians 12:27).

Community in the biblical sense is not merely a social construct but a spiritual reality that reflects the unity and diversity of the Trinity. It is characterized by love, mutual support, and a shared mission to glorify God and spread the Gospel.

Commissioning

Commissioning in the Bible refers to the act of appointing or sending individuals for a specific purpose or mission, often accompanied by divine authority and empowerment. This concept is evident throughout Scripture, where God commissions individuals and groups to fulfill His purposes.

In the Old Testament, commissioning is seen in the calling of prophets, judges, and leaders. For example, Moses is commissioned by God at the burning bush to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10). Similarly, Joshua is commissioned to lead the people into the Promised Land, as God commands him, "Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land that I swore to their fathers to give them" (Joshua 1:6).

The New Testament highlights the commissioning of Jesus' disciples. The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, is a pivotal moment where Jesus commands His followers: "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This commission underscores the global mission of the church to spread the Gospel and make disciples.

The Apostle Paul also experienced a personal commissioning. In Acts 9:15, the Lord tells Ananias about Paul, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul's missionary journeys and epistles reflect his obedience to this divine commission.

Commissioning in the biblical sense involves a divine calling, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to fulfill God's purposes. It is a significant aspect of the Christian life, as believers are called to participate in God's redemptive work in the world.