What defines a tribe?
Our goal is to see unique expressions of community that encompasses these elements, versus letting the elements dictate what community looks like. We’re encouraging leaders to experiment and create tribes that are life-giving and transformational.
LIFE CHANGE
Life transformation is essential to our mission: to create tribes where people can experience spiritual and relational growth in a loving and authentic community; an environment where God is active in the lives of its members and where people change. Keeping the life-change goal front and center challenges us to keep our tribes purposeful.
THE BIBLE
A key element is learning Scripture. The Bible is God’s Word to us and is therefore authoritative in our lives. It should be where we go to answer questions about our lives. It’s our source of wisdom and practical application of the gospel to daily living. It shouldn’t be something we merely study but something we live.
PRAYER
Prayer’s a gift. It’s an opportunity to communicate with the Creator of the universe. We have the ability to talk with God, praise him, confess our sin, ask for His provision, and listen for His response. Tribes should always be seasoned with prayer. Prayer elements: Praise of God, Praying for His Will, Thanksgiving, Confession, Forgiveness, and Petition/Requests
CONFESSION & REPENTENCE
Confession and repentance is a natural response to the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. If we’re to see life change, we need to see conviction worked out in repentance. We can’t just wink at sin, but must lovingly face beliefs, thoughts, and behaviors that are not honoring to God. The purpose must always be reconciliation not conformity. Reconciliation is the gospel. Conformity is religion. Therefore, our goal is to always point to Jesus, the cross, and the resurrection, as the only remedy for sin and look to the Holy Spirit for the ability to walk in righteousness. We want heart change not merely behavior change.
A LIFESTYLE OF WORSHIP
We want to encourage one another toward constant worship. Loving God and loving others embodies worship. Here are some examples:
LOVING GOD:
- Reading and applying the Bible to our lives. (Ps.119:9-11 )
- Meeting together for corporate worship. (Ps.149:1,Heb.10:25)
- Being thankful everyday. (Ps.118-28:29)
- Seeking God’s will for us daily. (Matt.6:33)
- Learning to trust him in all circumstances. (Matt.6:25-34, Mark11:22 )
- Learning to filter our thoughts through His. ( Rom.12:2, 2 Cor.10:15 )
- Giving back to God through tithes and offering. (Mal.3:10, Matt.23:23)
- Practicing, memorizing, and meditating on Scripture. (Ps.119, Matt.6:16 )
- Devoting oneself to holiness and purity. (Eph.5:1-17, Mark 8:34-35)
LOVING OTHERS:
- Controlling our speech so that it builds up and doesn’t destroy. (Eph.4:29 )
- Be rich in good deeds (1 Tim.6:18)
- Don’t judge. (Matt. 7:1-2))
- Take care of the poor. (James 1:27)
- Forgive others. (Eph.4:31-32 )
- Treat others as if they were Jesus. (Matt.25:35-40)
- Pray for others. (John 17:20, James 5:13-16)
- Be an example for others (1 Thes. 4:3 )
- Go and make disciples (Matt.28:19)
CULTIVATING RELATIONSHIPS
Intentionality is an essential to your tribe. Healthy and strong relationships don’t just happen. They require work and effort. Start early and build the relational capital of your tribe. Do fun things together. Check in with each other. Pray for one another. Regular investments will cultivate, deepen your care and trust for each other.
OPEN DOORS & OPEN HEARTS
Having open doors and open hearts helps us grow! We want to new people to join and experience our community! Food, fun, and conversation are essentials. The point is to build relationships, so provide the space and enjoy!
SERVING
Get out and serve! Tribes need common cause to work toward. It’s an opportunity to reflect the grace and love of Jesus to others. Check schools, community centers, neighborhood newsletters and websites for ideas on where your tribe can serve and meet a practical need. Also remember, service includes serving the body, so check at KV for needs that your tribe can fill.
BECOMING PEOPLE OF INFLUENCE!
This essential encourages us to intentionally disciple future leaders. We want to multiply our influence! Everyone has the potential to influence and lead others. Are you ready?
