I'm excited to announce that my new book The Relational Disciple   is now available to order. This book has changed my life. I often scroll through it for my own personal edification and to remind myself that the Trinity wants to mold me into a relational follower. I'm reminded of the numerous one-another passages in the Bible and the need to  go beyond my individualistic inclinations to start thinking biblically. After you read it, let me know what you think. 

Through the process of writing this book, I now have a new appreciation for the community aspect of cell life. In the past, I felt like community was over-emphasized by those talking about small groups. They are going to stagnate the cell groups by talking so much about community, I would say to myself. God has been changing my thinking over the past year.

I now understand why so many cell voices have promoted relational ministry over the years. Ralph Neighbour and Bill Beckham have always seen community as an essential reason for cell ministry--maybe even the basis. Others have echoed this same sentiment. I'm a late bloomer. Yet, now I'm on board. I've been marveling lately in God's triune nature and  how often Scripture talks about one-another ministry. Jesus even said that non-Christians would know we are His disciples by our love and unity.

I realize now that it's important to prioritize and enjoy relational ministry in the cell group--not just as a means to win people for Jesus and multiply a group, but as an essential part of cell life. There's something beautiful about God's people openly sharing, confessing sins and struggles, applying God's Word, and asking for prayer. God is pleased when koinonia (fellowship) takes place because He is  a community-oriented God, dwelling in perfect unity with the other members of the Trinity. And He wants us to act like Him.

What do you think? Please express your comments about the importance of community and relational discipleship HERE.

Joel Comiskey