Uncommon Community: Part 5, Authentic Relationships
October 5, 2025

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Message Review

The fourth indicator of a healthy and transformational smaller community is Authentic Relationships. Authentic relationships are people mutually helping each other be transformed into everything God created them to be. What makes a community uncommon is when authentic relationships are forming and flourishing.

Main Point: What makes a community uncommon is when authentic relationships are forming and flourishing.

Scripture References: 1 Peter 2:1-12

Discussion Questions

  • What were your initial thoughts or takeaways from the sermon, and why?

  • Every week of this series, Ronnie has said, “Transformation doesn’t happen in isolation.” What does that phrase mean? Do you believe this phrase is true or false? Why?

  • Ronnie defined Authentic Relationships as people who are mutually helping each other be transformed into everything God created them to be. 

    • What are some differences between an authentic relationship and other types of relationships we have?

    • Who has helped you take a next step in following Jesus, and how

    • Who have you helped take a next step in following Jesus, and how?

  • Read 1 Peter 2:1-12:

    • What sticks out to you in this passage, and why?

    • What big idea(s) was Peter trying to communicate?

    • In verses 9–10, Peter uses five phrases to describe who every follower of Jesus is. What does each phrase mean? Why do you think Peter described us that way? How should that impact the way we relate to one another?

    • As a community of Christ followers, what do you think is the significance of verse 12?

    • Based on this passage, do you agree or disagree that, as followers of Christ, when it comes to following Jesus, my business is your business and your business is mine? Why or why not?

  • Ronnie said that what makes a community uncommon is when authentic relationships are forming and flourishing. What do you think is mutually required from all of us for authentic relationships to form and flourish in our T-Life Group?

  • Ronnie taught us six Authentic Relationship Practices: (1) Confess and pray [James 5:16], (2) Confront and Restore [Galatians 6:1a], (3) Teach and Guide [Colossians 3:16a], (4) Strengthen and Encourage [Hebrews 10:23-15], (5) Challenge and Sharpen [Proverbs 27:17], (6) Listen and Do [Proverbs 15:31-32]

    • Which of these practices do you struggle with the most?

    • Which of these practices could you be more intentional about with your T-Life Group?

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