We learn about the birth of the Church and how it began, shortly after Jesus ascended to Heaven in the book of Acts. Peter spoke boldly about the Good News of Jesus and shared with all who would listen how they could be made right with God. He didn’t sugar-coat things or tip-toe around people’s feelings or compromise the Truth in the name of love. He clearly spoke of what Jesus had taught him, and what was revealed to Him by the Holy Spirit.
Peter said, “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…” (ref. Acts 2:38-39a). Many believed what Peter said and were immediately baptized and added to the Church that same day. About 3,000 in all.
Talk about a great harvest of souls!
It amazes me that not only would God send us Jesus to be our Saviour and Lord of our lives, but even more so He gave His Spirit to us, to be with us always. I’m so grateful that He doesn’t leave us on our own. But He remains with us!
The beginning of the Church was really the forming of a brand-new community. A community built on Truth and Love and Prayer. “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.” (ref. Acts 2:42)
They devoted themselves to growth.
They clung to the teaching of the apostles, which brought revelation to the Old Testament scriptures that they knew well and cherished. All of the Law of Moses and the teachings of the Prophets pointed to Jesus! Eyes were opened through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. There was active participation in one another’s lives as they helped meet each other’s needs. They ate together. Prayed together. And the Church flourished!
How’s your personal devotion to growth going?
Could it be said of you, as a believer and follower of Jesus, that you’re devoted to the Word of God? Are you committed to a close mutual relationship with other believers, eating and participating in community with them? Are you known by your active prayer life?
Being devoted to growing takes a commitment. Being determined to walk in the best that God has for us, doesn’t mean it will always be easy, but growth is always worth it. The beautiful thing about growth is that we always have ways to improve. So, in areas where we may be lacking in our devotion to growth, let’s settle our hearts on a reset today, knowing that God’s grace always draws us back to Him and what His best is for us.
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