The Power of Community
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, as we begin this journey of understanding the power of community, open our hearts to the lessons of Acts 2. May Your Holy Spirit guide us to see the beauty of living in fellowship with others. Amen.
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.
REFLECT:
The early church in Acts 2 provides a powerful example of what it means to live in community. These believers were not just a group of individuals; they were a family united by their faith in Christ. Their devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer created a strong bond that was both spiritual and practical. This community was marked by generosity, as they sold possessions to meet each other's needs, demonstrating that their faith was not just about personal salvation but about living out the gospel in tangible ways.
In her message, our weekend guest speaker Julie Bullock reminds us that generosity is not just about financial giving; it's about sharing our lives with others. The early church's generosity was a response to the gospel's transformative power. They understood that their resources were not their own but were given by God to bless others. This kind of generosity creates a ripple effect, drawing others to the faith as they witness the love and unity among believers.
In our own lives, we are called to reflect this same spirit of community. Whether it's through sharing a meal, offering a listening ear, or providing for someone's needs, we have the opportunity to live out the gospel in our daily interactions. The challenge is to look beyond our own needs and see how we can be a blessing to those around us, trusting that God will use our efforts to draw others to Him.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will talk with someone about my commitment to All Things New.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the example of the early church and their commitment to community. Help us to live out this same spirit of generosity and unity in our own lives. May our actions draw others to You and bring glory to Your name. Amen.