Anchor Verses:
 Acts 2:42-47 | Ephesians 2:14-22 | Romans 12:4-5, 9-13
Focus Statement:
 The table is where God refines us — slowly, through diversity, discomfort, and community — shaping us into the image of Christ.

The Community Table Is Diverse (and That’s the Point)

  • God’s family is made up of people who don’t look, think, or live alike — and that’s by design.
  • The early church gathered across every barrier: Jew and Gentile, rich and poor, men and women.
  • Growth comes from sitting with those whose experiences and perspectives challenge yours.
  • If you only sit in echo chambers, you only ever hear your own voice — but the Kingdom calls us to more.

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The Community Table Is Uncomfortable (and That’s How We Grow)

  • Friction forms strength — it’s not meant to hurt, but to sharpen.
  • Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that iron sharpens iron, and sparks are part of the process.
  • Hard questions and accountability aren’t attacks; they are gentle invitations to grow.
  • Your flesh will resist, but lean in — comfort is the enemy of growth.

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The Community Table Is Lifelong (and That’s Where The Fruit Is)

  • Spiritual formation is slow and steady — like making gumbo.
  • You can’t microwave spiritual depth; it requires patience, consistency, and trust in the process.
  • Real growth happens over shared meals, serving together, and showing up when it’s inconvenient.
  • The beauty of this work is that it’s meant to be shared and savored — community refines you over time.

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The Challenge

  • Stay at the table. Embrace difference. Lean into discomfort. Commit to community that sharpens you and shapes you to look more like Jesus.

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Sermon Questions

  • Who in your life or community group challenges your comfort zone — and how might God be using that person to refine you and make you more like Christ?
  • When have you felt the urge to retreat or give a shallow answer instead of leaning into friction and vulnerability? How can you respond differently this week, trusting that God is sharpening you?
  • Are you willing to commit to the slow, steady work of community, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable? What practical step can you take this week to stay at the table and invest in Kingdom relationships?

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