Acts 2:37-47
When we were in the process of building Southwood’s new structure, twenty years ago, my kids were sad about leaving the church they had grown up in. Many times I reminded them, the building does not make the church, it is the people, the community of believers who care for each other, who love and serve God.
The book of Acts talks about the growth of the church in the early days. With the spreading of the church there was also spiritual growth. The first followers of Jesus shared their lives, resources, and faith, creating a supportive and loving community for all believers. It was a powerful transformation that occurred, resulting in unity, devotion to the apostles’ teaching, communal living, sharing of possessions, and continual worship and praise of God. This served as a model for the early church.
Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away, all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all. All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals, including the Lord’s Supper, and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Acts 2:37-47 (NLT)
These can be important lessons for us today, about community and faith. We are to turn away from sin, to be baptized in Jesus’ name for forgiveness, and to commit to our faith. God’s church is a collection of God’s people, worshiping together, caring for others, praying for each other, spending time in fellowship, and sharing the love of God. Just as God used the early church to spread blessings to others so the church could continue to grow, God also wants us to love Him and share His love with other people. We can foster a strong, supportive community striving to enrich our own faith and the lives and faith of others. It is important that we, as followers of God, carry his message. We are to share His word and His love so that we might help grow the Kingdom of God. Save one more for Jesus, as I often say!
Questions for Reflection:
- What are some ways that you might spread blessings to other people?
- Are there things you could do to help grow God’s church?
- Are you prepared to feel the Holy Spirit’s nudge and take decisive steps?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the blessing of Southwood. Thank you for the members who fellowship together, help and support others, and give of their time and talents. Continue to enrich our lives and to grow our faith so that we might continue to grow the church, helping others to hear your word and to know of your great love. Amen
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