"With God's Grace Our Worst Past
Becomes Our Best Future"
Becomes Our Best Future"
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 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, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Acts 2:42-48 NIV
“I don’t need to go to church,” she said. “I love the Lord and try to do good. That’s all I need.”
I gently encouraged her to consider the benefits of fellowship. Those same folks who scoff at church fellowship will often seek out other communities for fellowship, such as bars, clubs, sports groups, and other avenues within their communities. Some of these are worthwhile and beneficial. However, they cannot replace the bond sealed by the Holy Spirit.
What are the benefits of a fellowship of believers? I look to the early church for examples. Granted, our church fellowships in developed countries are denominationally based, and we worship in a building. In disasters or third-world countries, worshippers often gather outdoors. But the spirit is not diminished by how we gather. The energy comes from the people whose heart belongs to the Lord.
If we look at the beginnings of Christian worship, we find these threads … threads that spoke to observers as, “Something special is happening here, and I want to be a part of it.”
They continued in doctrine, fellowship, breaking of the bread, and in prayer.
There were wonders and signs.
They help things in common, such as values and the desire to promote the gospel.
They shared whatever they had with anyone in need.
They continually praised God.
They did not foment rebellion, living in peace as much as they were able.
And the Lord added to the church daily.
What can we glean to apply to our worship experience today?
Acts 2:42-48 has inspired countless movements for renewal, reform, and community throughout Christian history. While the cultural context has changed, the underlying principles remain.
Devotion to Scripture and Teaching:
Authentic Community
Generosity
Worship and Prayer
Witness: The church’s most persuasive witness is often the quality of its life together—love, unity, and visible acts of grace
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