Section One: Plague of Individualism and Integrative Solution (p.41-106)

After reading pages 41-106, reflect on the following paragraph:

Frazee identifies western individualism (that leads to a dysfunctional or co-dependent culture in churches and small groups) as a major obstacle to spiritual growth. His solution is to unite the church around a common, biblical purpose that revolves around the overarching purposes of loving God and neighbor that are facilitated by:

1. common belief (doctrines),
2. spiritual practices (spiritual disciplines), and
3. virtues (character).

These are also facilitated through communal characteristics of :

1. authority (because disclosure without accountability creates co-dependency),
2. a common creed/affirmation,
3. traditions,
4. spiritual practices, and a
5. common mission.

There are some things in this section that both our American culture and our church heritage have an aversion to for various reasons. Keeping these in mind, reflect on some of the possible benefits and/or pitfalls of this overall framework. Was there anything you disagreed with in this overall framework and why? What do you find of most value in this reading?

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Introductory Section: Loneliness and Community (p.1-37)

After reading pages 1-37, reflect on the following paragraph:


In the forward, Dallas Willard states, "All too often real-life connections simply run on a different track from 'church' and remain unredeemed and unredemptive" (17). Later, Frazee writes that, like the Johnsons, many today have "too many worlds to manage. There are too many sets of relationships that do not connect with each other but all require time to maintain" (33). Frazee suggests that the most profound thought of his book is that "Biblical community is the life of Christ on earth today" (22). Then, in the second chapter, Frazee suggests that authentic community in the church is not an option, but a necessity. Explain why you would agree or disagree with this. If you agree, what are some of the implications for your congregation? What do your actions as a congregation demonstrate about its attitude toward connectedness, community, and fellowship?


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Before You Start Reading...

A couple of simple questions to reflect on and share with each other as we prepare to read this book together: What is it that makes you want to read this book? What do you hope to gain from a reading of this book?

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