Watch Now

In his sermon “How Community Shapes Us in The Gospel,” Pastor Kelly Kinder delves into the profound influence of our desires on our spiritual journey. By examining the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve’s fall in Genesis 3:6-13, Kelly brings to light the complex relationship between our inherent desires and the often self-centered nature that emerges when these desires are pursued outside of God’s will. This exploration begins with the recognition that our desires, while not inherently sinful, can lead us astray when not aligned with divine intentions.

The sermon unpacks how easily our desires can be manipulated, drawing on the example of Satan’s deception of Adam and Eve. This manipulation results in consequences like shame and fear, which were evident when they realized their nakedness and hid from God. Kelly uses this story to highlight how our desires, when distorted, can alienate us from God and from each other, leading to a state of isolation and fear that is contrary to God’s design for community and fellowship.

Kelly taps into the wisdom of St. Augustine to further dissect the nature of human desires. Augustine’s reflections suggest that our yearning for things like beauty, knowledge, and sustenance, while natural, becomes problematic when it is directed away from God. This theological perspective underscores the sermon’s core message: our deepest desires, when correctly oriented, draw us closer to God and to one another in meaningful community.

In discussing the concept of community, Kelly contrasts two types of community within the church: the functional and the formative. A functional community, as Kelly describes, revolves around individual needs, focusing on what members can gain from their interactions. This type of community often results in relationships that are superficial and transient, lacking the depth and commitment necessary for true spiritual growth. On the other hand, a formative community, which the sermon advocates for, places Christ at the center. Such a community views relationships and the inevitable struggles that come with them as opportunities for spiritual deepening and real transformation.

The importance of remaining engaged in a Christ-centered community is emphasized through various biblical examples and practical insights such as accountability, prayer, mentorship, and fellowship. Kelly argues that these elements are vital for a community to function effectively in shaping its members’ desires according to God’s will. This engagement in community is not just about attending church services or participating in social events; it is about being part of a shared spiritual journey where every interaction holds the potential for divine transformation.

Kelly also addresses the challenges of maintaining community life, especially when personal or collective desires lead to conflicts, as outlined in James 4. He discusses how unchecked desires can escalate into quarrels and divisions within the community, and how the gospel provides a framework for reconciliation and unity. The sermon encourages listeners to consider their own roles in fostering a healthy community, highlighting the need for humility, grace, and a willingness to confront and heal personal and communal sins.

Drawing on the cinematic illustration from “What About Bob?”, Kelly explores how personal desires can distort reality, causing us to miss the bigger picture of God’s plans for our lives and our communities. This metaphor enriches the sermon’s exploration of desire, showing how our individual cravings, if left unchecked, can overshadow our collective calling to live out the gospel together.

As the sermon unfolds, Kelly revisits the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which he describes as essential for realigning our desires with those of Christ. This alignment is not depicted as a one-time event but as a continuous process that occurs within the life of the community. By participating in a community that is both aware of and responsive to the Holy Spirit, individuals can find support and strength to overcome the temptations that often derail spiritual growth.

In conclusion, “How Community Shapes Us in The Gospel” is not just an exposition on biblical teachings but a practical guide on living out these teachings in everyday life. Pastor Kelly Kinder invites the congregation to embark on a journey of self-examination and communal engagement, urging everyone to consider how their deepest desires can be transformed by the gospel. Through this transformation, we are not only brought closer to God but are also equipped to forge stronger, more resilient relationships with others, thereby fulfilling our call to live in a gospel-centered community. This sermon serves as a powerful reminder that in the gospel, we find the blueprint for personal and communal transformation that transcends our often misguided desires, steering us towards a life marked by divine purpose and communal harmony.