Live life together (Acts 2:46) The
early church was "together". They ate together, prayed together,
worshiped together, and lived their lives together. They understood the
importance of other believers having influence in their lives.
Biblical community means living life together.
The Challenge: Life is hard and messy. Don't try to do it alone. Share your life
with others. Challenge and encourage one another to grow in Christ.
Spend time with one another apart from the church building. Invite
members of your group into your home to get to know them better.
Biblical community takes more than a few hours a week. (Heb. 10:24-25)
Study God's Word together (Acts 2:42) The first church members were "devoted" to the apostles teaching. It
is the first thing mentioned in this passage. The word "devoted"
suggests that they were persistent and unwavering. They had a hunger for
the Word of God.
The Challenge: God's Word is essential to the Christian life. Devote yourself to
it. Ask God to continually change you as you read the Word. Attend
corporate worship regularly to hear the teaching of God's Word.
Actively participate in life group discussions. The goal is to hear
God's Word and then apply it to your life in a real way. (2 Tim.
3:15-17)
Care for one another (Acts 2:45) The
Christians in Acts 2 made sacrifices in order to take care of each
other. They sold their own possessions to make sure that the needs
of their brothers and sisters were met.
The Challenge:
Live out the Gospel in how you treat others. Christ loved you and
died for you. Love others in the same way Christ loved you. (1 John
3:16) Care for one another by meeting their needs and praying for
them. Find meaningful ways to serve your brothers and sisters. Make
sacrifices in order to put others first. (Rom. 12:9-13)
Live on Mission (Acts 2:47)
The early
followers of Christ lived in such a way that everyone around them wanted
to know why they were so loving, caring, joyful, and generous. They
lived this way in front of everyone not for their own glory, but to
give praise and glory to God.
The Challenge:
Live your life making
disciples. Have gospel intentionality in all facets of your life. Let
what you believe be evident to the people where you live, work, and
play. Be intentional in your conversations with them. Get involved in
their lives. Know who they are. Make sure they know who you are. (Matt.
28:19)
OCS