The Power of Being Real: Why Authenticity Builds True Christian Community
I had a really wonderful Easter. I posted a sweet picture on Instagram of me and my girls at church—our outfits were so cute, our hair and makeup were done just right, and everything looked picture-perfect. But if you had seen us just three hours earlier, you would’ve witnessed a very different version of reality.
The day before Easter, we had over 50 people at our house, many of whom brought delicious salty, cheesy food. So, Easter morning? Let’s just say I was feeling the aftermath. My hair, in its natural state, was doing its usual crazy wild frizz, and I squeezed into my firmest control-top jeans and tallest wedge shoes and expertly applied contour make-up - all strategic choices to create the illusion of put-togetherness.
It made me think… there’s nothing wrong with celebrating beautiful moments or posting sweet photos. But it’s also important—really important—to be real.
Because behind every polished photo is a story, and sometimes, the most meaningful stories are the ones we don’t always share.
So why is being real so important in Christian community?
Because authenticity leads to connection. When we try to project perfect lives—flawless homes, joyful marriages, ideal children—we not only wear ourselves out, we unintentionally isolate others. Our desire to impress can make those around us feel inadequate. But when we’re willing to admit we struggle, when we stop pretending and start sharing, we create space for others to do the same. That’s when real relationships grow.
Paul reminds Timothy of the sincere faith passed down to him (2 Timothy 1:5–14), and we’re called to that same sincerity. We don’t need to air every detail of our struggles, but we do need to be truthful. Speak the truth in love. Admit when you’re wrong. Ask for forgiveness. Share the parts of your story that reflect God's goodness, even when they come from broken places.
Authenticity isn’t weakness—it’s an invitation for God to be strong in us.
Jesus never called us to perfection. He called us to transformation. And transformation starts with truth. We can’t become more like Christ if we’re too busy pretending we don’t need Him. That’s why David prayed in Psalm 139: “Search me, O God, and know my heart…point out anything in me that offends you.” When we let God examine us honestly, He gently reveals where we can grow—and where our authenticity can encourage others.
1 John 1:7–9 makes it clear: when we walk in the light—God’s truth—we experience fellowship and healing. But if we hide behind masks and deny our need, we miss out on that deep connection both with God and others.
So, how can we make our church community more authentic? Maybe it starts by being honest in a small group, or sharing your struggles with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Maybe it looks like asking a friend, “How are you, really?” and being prepared to listen without judgment.
When we’re honest, we help others breathe a little easier.
In a world of filtered photos and curated highlight reels, Christian community must look different. Let’s be the kind of community who choose real over perfect. Who offer grace instead of comparison. Who share our stories—not because they’re shiny and impressive, but because they’re filled with God’s redeeming love.
Authenticity doesn’t push people away. It draws them in. And in that kind of community, Christ shines brightest.
*Shayna Dodd