Day 5: Acts 2:42-47
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
-----
In Acts we find the coming of the Kingdom of God through the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit the teachings of Jesus are made a reality in the lives of his followers. Acts 2:42-47 is a first century glimpse into the attitudes and actions of the early church. To many of us the practices might seem unrealistic or outdated in comparison to our current expressions of our faith community. The practice of selling possessions for the needs of the community is rarely mentioned in today’s time. And, when it is a reality, the person is an exception, not the norm. The early church was united in practice, mission, testimony, and identity. This depth of union and communal commitment would itself be seen as a work of God in today’s cynical and divisive world. Yet, the early church regularly experienced wonders and signs performed by the Holy Spirit through the apostles. People in Jerusalem were finding hope and restoration in the bold proclamation of the good news of Jesus. And in response to the new hope, they were becoming part of the community.
What was the secret behind such an inspiring and powerful picture of the early church?
It wasn’t so much a secret, but the surrendering to the reign of God and entering into a Spirit-led relationship with God and the community. They were captivated by God’s revelations of Himself, first through Jesus, and now through the Holy Spirit. The source of their boldness and surrender can be seen in the early church’s posture of prayer seeking the presence and promise of God in their lives.
Do you long for a similar experience of community? It begins with a posture of prayer and surrendering to the reign of God. Continue to pray daily and seek the presence and promises of God in your life.
-----
Phil Starr | Student Ministries Pastor, Lima Community Church