Scriptural Reflection
- JR Vassar
- Jun 5, 2008
- Series: A Compelling People
Acts 2.41-47
41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
We are in a new teaching series entitled, A Compelling People, looking at the lives of the earliest Christ-followers. These people were normal people who lived compelling lives by the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through them individually and corporately. A group of 120 quickly grew and became the most compelling people on the planet, living with such compelling faith, courage, joy, love, and hospitality that it became an urban movement that spread throughout the Roman Empire. This community of Christ followers shaped the ethos of cities and forged their futures.
God's vision for his people has not changed. As you read the description of these earliest Christians in the passage above, what do you find most compelling about them? What would you like to see cultivated in your life and in our community? What kind of city could a community like this create? Pray that God would enlarge your heart for this kind of work by His Spirit among us for His glory and the joy of our city.