Fellowship in Action
“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.” (Acts 2:46-47 NIV)
Devotional Thought - The early church serves as a powerful model of Christian community. Their daily gathering in the temple courts wasn't merely a ritual, but a vibrant expression of their shared faith. They didn't just attend meetings; they actively engaged in fellowship, breaking bread in each other’s homes. This wasn't a “religious” duty but an occasion filled with "glad and sincere hearts," their joy a testament to the power of the gospel. Their genuine praise and evident favor with the people around them demonstrated the authenticity of their faith and the attractiveness of their community. As a direct result of their devotion and witness, "the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved," highlighting that authentic community and genuine faith draw others to Christ.
These first century Christians faced many challenges, yet that did not stop them from continuing to meet together. So often, we excuse ourselves from going to church or Life Group because there is something that is less than optimal in our sphere. Maybe it is raining or we are tired. If we are able to go, do we have a glad and sincere heart? The men, women and children in biblical times weren’t just tired from working from dawn to dusk, but they also faced relentless persecution. We are blessed to live in a time where there are endless advantages available to us. Shouldn’t we express our thankfulness for this by being dedicated to growing in the Lord and spending time with other Christians?
Prayer - Lord, as I gather with fellow believers in church and Life Group, let my heart be joyful and genuine. Guide me away from making reasons to avoid being a part of Your church. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Follow Up Activity - What are some of the reasons you give for missing church or Life Group? Instead of thinking about what is holding you back use the phrase, “How might I make this happen?” Then ask Jesus to assist you in finding a solution to those problems.
