The Known Challenge

We live in a world that is becoming increasingly connected, yet many people feel more isolated than ever. Artificial intelligence can imitate conversation, generate ideas, and even simulate companionship. But being human is about more than processing information, producing results, or exchanging words. We were created for relationships—to know and be known.

In Genesis 2:18, God declares,

“It is not good for the man to be alone.”

From the very beginning, humanity was designed for connection with our Creator, with ourselves, and with one another. Throughout 2027, as we explore what it means to be truly ALIVE, we're inviting our church family to participate in a simple challenge.

The Known Challenge is an invitation to rediscover our humanity by cultivating three essential relationships: our relationship with God, our relationship with ourselves, and our relationships with others.

Known by God

Discover your identity in the One who created you.

“You have searched me, LORD, and you know me.” — Psalm 139:1

Before anyone else knew our names, God knew us. Our identity isn't determined by our productivity, accomplishments, appearance, or the opinions of others. Our identity begins with the God who created us, loves us, and knows us completely.

In a world that constantly tells us who we should become, we need to rediscover who we already are in the eyes of our Creator.

Spend at least 10 intentional minutes with God every day.

During this time, you are encouraged to:

  • Read and reflect on passages of Scripture

  • Reflect on what God says about who you are.

  • Spend time in prayer, listening and responding to God.

Known by Others

Experience the freedom of being authentically yourself.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” — James 5:16

We live in a world of carefully curated identities. On our social media pages, we’ll share our successes and highlight our achievements, but often hide our struggles. We may have hundreds of acquaintances, yet very few people who truly know us.

To be in genuine community requires real vulnerability. Being known means allowing others to see beyond the version of ourselves we present to the world. It means being willing to be honest and authentic, and creating space for meaningful relationships.

Share one meaningful part of your life with someone outside your household each week.

This could include:

  • Sharing something you're struggling with.

  • Celebrating something meaningful happening in your life.

  • Expressing a fear, hope, or personal question.

  • Asking someone to pray with you about something specific.

Knowing Others

Make someone feel seen, heard, and valued.

“Look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4

Every person we encounter has a story. Behind every face is a world of experiences, hopes, fears, challenges, and dreams. Yet in the busyness of life, it's easy to overlook the people around us. It’s easy to interact with the same people every day or every week and not truly know them.

Knowing others requires intentionality. It means moving beyond casual greetings and surface-level conversations to genuinely discover the lives of those God has placed around us.

Intentionally connect with one person each week.

This might mean:

  • Calling someone simply to ask how they're doing.

  • Inviting someone for a drink or a meal.

  • Checking in with someone you haven't connected with recently.

  • Asking a meaningful question and taking time to listen.

  • Following up on something someone previously shared.