Community of Believers

April 27, 2015 Monday Message:

“They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers. Acts 2:42 MSG

Jesus said to make disciples of all nations, but he never said we should do it alone. As the church began, the apostles stuck together, first selecting a replacement for Judas. They believed that Jesus’ intention was that the “twelve” be complete.

After Pentecost, “The Way,” as Christians became known, worshiped and ate meals together, sharing their resources. This gave them a solid home base, a community to be sent FROM, as they preached the Good News. God added to their number daily.

Paul was called into ministry by Jesus himself, and as he spread the Gospel, he often took close friends with him, friends such as Barnabas, Luke, John Mark, Priscilla, Timothy and Titus. There are more, but my point is that he didn’t go alone. He brought a ministry TEAM that first established a local church, a solid home from which they could be sent to do more ministry.

At my church, Jesus in the City Fellowship, we’re good at “sending,” but our home base is a bit sparse. Comparing this with the Biblical example, we know we need to grow our congregation, our base of operations. A stronger “home” will provide for stronger outreach.

Other churches have a solid congregation, but don’t do much “sending.” Ideally, there should be a balance - a strong church with lots of sending. Where is your church in this picture?

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, May 3, Pastor Michael Pilla brings a message from Acts 19:23-41.