Focal Passage: Acts 2:41-47
On the day of Pentecost, God establishes the early Church with the coming of the Holy Spirit. And after Peter’s sermon at Pentecost, the group of disciples present, estimated to be 120, exploded to more than 3,000 in a single day.
One would think that kind of growth would produce mass chaos and monumental logistical problems within the Church. Luke emphasizes in our study this week that just the opposite happened. Instead of massive disorganization, the Church came together in a unified body of cohesiveness.
The passage also tells us they devoted themselves to learning more about God through the teaching of the Apostles. They were eager to know how to deepen their understanding on how to live as God’s people. What they heard and saw filled them with amazement, awe and wonder. We, too, can experience that kind of excitement if only we devote ourself to the study of God’s Word.
Nimmo
We need to let it penetrate our hearts and minds to the point that it inspires awe and wonder. The saddest commentary today in our churches is that we have some who have progressed very little in their Christian growth beyond their salvation experience. Many more have lost that awe and wonder about the things of God. God’s Word will bring that excitement back in our spiritual lives if only we would devote ourselves to it.
Have you ever wondered why eating in Scripture was so important? I say important because you see it a lot. For instance, the Jews had numerous feasts — Passover, Pentecost and the list goes on. In the Gospels we see many conversations with Jesus and His disciples while eating.
Perhaps most people don’t think about it but it is there. I can relate to it remembering all the wonderful times I have had in my life around the dinner table. I remember how grand it was sharing that moment with family. The commonality we shared brought us together in a way nothing else could. The early Church shared this bond as well.
The glue that held this new body of believers so tightly together was love — love for God, love for His Word and love for each other. I love being with God’s people. I love being in worship with other believers on Sunday morning. I love eating and fellowshiping with them. It is wonderful to share your life with others and they share theirs with you It’s the commonality that brings about joy.
When you care deeply for one another in love, there is a sense of peace and confidence in knowing someone has your back and you have theirs. After all, that’s one of the greatest witnesses we can have. Jesus said that the world would know we are His disciples by the way we love one another. People notice that kind of love. They may question other things, but that they will pay attention to. B&R
