Steven Goulstone is the pastor at Wellington South Baptist. This post is adapted from his recent sermon on 14 June 2026, part of the “Redemptive Family” series. You can listen to it on our church podcast here.

Think about your favourite stories. Very few heroes make it on their own. Frodo had the Fellowship. Moana had Maui, Hei Hei, and the wisdom of her grandmother. Luke Skywalker wouldn’t have gotten far withouth Han, Leia, Chewie and the droids. Their journeys remind us of a simple truth: we are not meant to do life alone.

The same is true of faith.

Many of us can remember a time when someone showed up for us—offering practical help, encouragement, prayer, or simply their presence. Those moments remind us that God has created us for community. Discipleship is not an individual project; it is something we live out together.

This theme sits at the heart of our Redemptive Family journey. Over recent weeks we have reflected on a simple vision: the church is a family, in a place, on mission, together.

In Ephesians 4:1–16, Paul describes the church as one body, united in Christ. Before speaking about gifts and roles, he calls believers to humility, gentleness, patience, love, and unity. These are not abstract ideas but practices that help us become the family God intends us to be.

Paul also reminds us that every person has a part to play. Whether our gifts are visible or hidden, public or behind the scenes, each one matters. The church grows when every member contributes what Christ has given them. We are joined together, held together, and built up in love.

As a church, our calling is not simply to gather in the same place. We are invited to strengthen one another, practice genuine togetherness, and welcome others into a community where they can encounter the love of Jesus.

Whatever God is calling us to become in these southern suburbs, we will only get there together.

Reflect

How might God be inviting you to contribute to the unity, growth, and mission of our church family this week?