The concept of community as God's workmanship is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting the divine intention for human relationships and collective existence. The Bible presents community not merely as a social construct but as an integral part of God's design for humanity, reflecting His character and purposes.

Creation and Community

The foundation of community is established in the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:26-27 , God declares, "Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness." This plural language suggests a divine community within the Godhead, which humanity is called to reflect. The creation of man and woman in God's image underscores the relational aspect of human existence, as seen in Genesis 2:18 , where God states, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper." This indicates that community is essential to human flourishing and is part of God's original design.

Israel: A Covenant Community

The nation of Israel serves as a primary example of community as God's workmanship. God calls Abraham and establishes a covenant with him, promising to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:2-3). This covenant community is set apart to reflect God's holiness and to be a light to the nations (Exodus 19:5-6). The laws given to Israel, including the Ten Commandments, emphasize communal living and justice, underscoring the importance of relationships within the community (Exodus 20:1-17).

The Church: The Body of Christ

In the New Testament, the concept of community is further developed through the Church, described as the Body of Christ. Ephesians 2:10 states, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." This passage highlights the Church as a community crafted by God for His purposes. The Apostle Paul elaborates on this in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 , where he describes the Church as one body with many members, each with unique gifts and roles, working together for the common good.

Unity and Diversity in Community

The biblical vision of community embraces both unity and diversity. Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This unity transcends social, ethnic, and gender distinctions, reflecting the inclusive nature of God's kingdom. At the same time, the diversity of gifts and functions within the community is celebrated, as seen in Romans 12:4-8 , where believers are encouraged to use their varied gifts to serve one another.

Community and Love

Love is the defining characteristic of biblical community. Jesus commands His followers 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." This love is sacrificial and selfless, modeled after Christ's love for the Church. It is through love that the community reflects God's nature and fulfills its calling.

Community as Witness

The community of believers serves as a witness to the world. In Acts 2:42-47 , the early Church is described as devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Their unity and generosity attract others, and "the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47). This communal life serves as a testimony to God's transformative power and His kingdom's values.

Restoration and the New Creation

The ultimate fulfillment of community as God's workmanship is seen in the eschatological vision of the new creation. Revelation 21:3 proclaims, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God." This vision encapsulates the restoration of perfect community, where God and humanity dwell together in harmony, free from sin and division.

In summary, the Bible presents community as an expression of God's workmanship, intricately designed to reflect His image, fulfill His purposes, and manifest His love and unity in a broken world.