Community of Believers

June 30, 2014 Monday Message:

“Everyday God added to their number those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47b JBP

Following Simon-Peter’s persuasive altar call on Pentecost (Acts 2,) the early church had to work out some details. With 3,000 new members, how were they going to “do” church?

First, they stuck with basics. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and prayer. The Bible says that everyone was in awe because many miracles, signs and wonders were taking place.

But our new believers took things a step further. Many sold their property and possessions and divided the proceeds among the fellowship according to need. Jesus had said, “Love your neighbor,” which they interpreted as, “Take care of your neighbor,” and they brought life to this principle.

This new church had become the centerpiece of their lives. They met in the Temple and prayed together, ate meals together, and in fact had formed an entire “community” of believers. It’s a compelling model, then and now.

They were filled with joy, and the rest of Jerusalem looked up to them. And God added to their number daily.

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) meets every Sunday, at 10:30am, in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week I’ll wrap up Acts 2 as we discuss the new community of believers.