Deep Relationships in an Age of Cheap Connection
We have more ways to stay connected than ever before. We can text, share photos, follow each other's lives online, and communicate instantly across the world. But are those connections giving us the deep relationships we actually long for?
In 2 John, the apostle expresses his desire to move beyond written communication and meet face to face so that their joy may be complete. Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen explores the difference between cheap and deep relationships, the limitations of social media and convenient communication, and why meaningful connection requires sacrifice and presence. Looking at the larger biblical story, from creation to Revelation, he considers how our relationships with one another reflect God's desire to be with us.
Scripture References
2 John
Genesis 12
John 1:1, 14
Revelation 21:1–4
Revelation 21:22–25
Key Moments
00:00 Welcome
00:33 Message: Deep Relationships in an Age of Cheap Connection
01:09 Reading 2 John
06:02 2 John 12: Face to Face So Our Joy May Be Complete
11:17 Cheap vs. Deep: The Spectrum of Relationships
17:13 Social Media: Comparison, Affirmation, and Convenience
25:09 God's Presence from the Garden to Revelation
30:02 Where Are We Keeping Relationships at a Distance?
Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on November 1, 2026, at 9:30am.