They devoted
themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of
bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders
and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and
had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to
anyone who had need. 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 2:42-47)
What a perfect picture of a healthy church - believers generously
sharing their time, talents, and treasures.
Then, the above verses go on to say “and the Lord added to
their number daily.” I don’t believe it
is a coincidence that God put that statement at the end. I would even suggest to you that God’s
ability to add to their number was a direct result of the labor of love the
church demonstrated one to another.
There is no greater evangelistic tool than our
actions. As our pastor always says
“preach the gospel at all times and use words when necessary.” When the world sees the heart of Jesus in
action, they will respond.
Jesus offered a message of hope to hopeless people. He demonstrated love and compassion to a
hurting world by forgiving sin, healing sickness, and setting the captives
free. He said “Come to me, all you
who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Whether or not the world wants to admit it, they long for
what Jesus has to offer and you and I are called to demonstrate that love by
sacrificially loving one another. When
we do that, the world will take notice.
When the early church came together with one heart and
mind, people saw an inviting Jesus and He added to their number daily. He wants to do the same though you and me
today.
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