The concept of the "Response of the Community" in biblical terms refers to how the collective body of believers, or the people of God, react to divine instructions, events, or leadership. This response is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, illustrating the dynamics between God and His people, and highlighting the importance of communal obedience, repentance, and worship.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the response of the community is often seen in the context of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. When Moses delivered God's commandments to the people, their collective response was crucial. In Exodus 19:8 , the people answered together, "We will do everything that the LORD has spoken." This unified response was a commitment to the covenant, demonstrating their willingness to obey God's laws.

However, the community's response was not always positive. In Numbers 14, when the Israelites were on the brink of entering the Promised Land, their response to the report of the spies was one of fear and rebellion. Numbers 14:2 records, "All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole congregation said to them, 'If only we had died in the land of Egypt, or if only we had died in this wilderness!'" This negative response led to severe consequences, including a prolonged wandering in the wilderness.

Prophetic Calls to Response

The prophets frequently called the community to respond to God's messages with repentance and faithfulness. In Joel 2:12-13 , the prophet urges, "Even now," declares the LORD, "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments." The desired response was one of genuine repentance and a return to God.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the response of the community is seen in the early church's reaction to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Acts 2, after Peter's sermon at Pentecost, the community's response was one of conviction and action. Acts 2:37-38 states, "When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and asked Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?' Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'"

The early church's response to persecution also exemplifies a communal reaction rooted in faith and resilience. In Acts 4:24 , when faced with threats, the believers "raised their voices together in prayer to God," demonstrating unity and dependence on divine strength.

Epistles and Community Response

The epistles often address the response of the community in terms of maintaining unity, love, and adherence to sound doctrine. In Ephesians 4:1-3 , Paul exhorts the community, "I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Conclusion

The response of the community throughout the Bible underscores the importance of collective obedience, repentance, and faith. Whether in the context of the Israelites' journey, the prophetic calls to repentance, or the early church's challenges, the community's response plays a pivotal role in fulfilling God's purposes and experiencing His blessings.